Fasting
One of the oldest Christian practices — setting aside something you rely on to create space for God.
Jesus said “when you fast” — not “if.” He assumed His followers would at times set things aside to make more room for God.
The traditional pattern observed across centuries of Christian practice includes Wednesdays and Fridays, and seasons like Lent and Advent. Start where you are — even one intentional fast per week carries weight.
A food fast is the most common starting point: skip a meal, or eat only after a time of prayer. Pair the time you would have spent eating with prayer or quiet.
Research and prepare your body, especially if you have health conditions. Fasting is a spiritual practice, not an endurance test.
One thing to hold onto: fasting is not the same as skipping a meal. What makes it fasting is the prayer that goes with it — the hunger is meant to turn you toward God, not just toward an empty stomach. Without that, as one person put it, you’re just dieting.
Recommended
Recommended channels, ministries and resources for fasting will appear here as we find them.
We’re always looking for more ways to help people practise this discipline well. If you know a ministry doing good work in this space, let us know.