How to Start Fasting and Praying as a Beginner: Biblical Insights and Practices
Fasting and prayer are integral parts of many religious traditions and have been practiced by numerous figures throughout the Bible. By understanding the context and goals of these practices, beginners can embark on a meaningful journey with God. This article explores how to approach fasting and prayer, drawing insights from the examples of figures like Daniel, Esther, and Moses.
Biblical Origins and Examples
The Old and New Testaments are replete with scriptures that speak about fasting and prayer. These practices were often used by prophets and leaders to communicate with God and seek His guidance. Let's delve into some of the key examples found in the Bible.
1. Daniel
Daniel 1:12-14: Daniel fasted and sought divine revelation. After 3 weeks of fasting, he received a vision from God. This example showcases how fasting can be a tool for seeking divine insight.
Daniel 10:3 I ate no choice food, no meat or wine; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over.
2. Esther
Esther 4:16: Esther fasted before speaking with the king regarding the fate of her people. This is an example of fasting as a spiritual preparation before important decisions.
Esther 4:16 “Go gather together all the Jews who are in Susa and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, day or night. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done I will go to the king, even though it is against the law.
3. Moses
Exodus 34:28: Moses fasted and had a personal encounter with the Lord, resulting in the writing of the Ten Commandments. This example highlights the relationship between fasting and divine communication.
Exodus 34:28 “Moses was there with the LORD forty days and forty nights, without eating bread or drinking water. And He wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant—the Ten Commandments.”
4. Joel
Joel 2:12-13: God calls His people to return to Him with fasting, weeping, and mourning. This passage emphasizes the spiritual significance of fasting as a form of penitence and seeking divine favor.
Joel 2:1213 ldquo;Even now, declares the LORD, lsquo;return to Me with all your heart; with fasting, and weeping, and ; Rend your heart, and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and abundant in steadfast love; and He relents from sending calamity.
5. Jesus on Fasting
Matthew 6:16-18: Jesus provides instructions on how to approach fasting, encouraging His followers to do it in private, seeking not to be recognized by others, but rather by God.
Matthew 6:16–18 ldquo;When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen, and your Father, who sees in secret, will reward yourdquo;.
How to Start Fasting and Praying
For beginners, it's essential to understand that fasting and prayer are not about earning favor or manipulating God but rather as expressions of faith and spiritual growth. Here are some practical steps to get started:
Step 1: Set Clear Intentions
Before embarking on a fast, define your spiritual goals. Is it to seek God’s guidance, repentance, or simply to grow closer to Him? Having clear intentions will help you stay focused during the process.
Step 2: Plan Your Fast
Fasting doesn’t have to be extreme. Start with small, manageable steps, such as fasting from meat or eating one meal a day. As you grow in spiritual discipline, you can gradually increase the intensity of the fast.
Step 3: Incorporate Prayer into Your Fast
Fasting and prayer go hand in hand. Make prayer a central part of your fasting routine. Pray the Psalms, memorize Bible verses, and seek spiritual guidance through personal devotions.
Step 4: Seek Community Support
Fasting can be a lonely journey, so seek out a community of believers who can provide support and encouragement. Join a fasting and prayer group, attend church services, or find a mentor who can guide you.
Step 5: Reflect on Your Journey
After completing your fast, take time to reflect on the experience. Did you feel closer to God? Did you gain insight or have answers to your prayers? Use these reflections to continue your spiritual growth.
Conclusion
Fasting and prayer are powerful ways to draw closer to God and deepen your understanding of His will. By following the examples set by figures like Daniel, Esther, and Moses, and by staying true to the spiritual goals and intentions of Jesus, beginners can embark on a meaningful journey of faith.