What are the rules of fasting in the Bible

Fasting is a spiritual practice that has been followed by Christians for centuries. It involves abstaining from food or certain types of food for a specific period of time for the purpose of spiritual discipline. The Bible teaches us about fasting as a way to deepen our relationship with God and seek His guidance. In this post, we will explore the rules for fasting in the Bible.

Fasting must be done with the right intention.

The first rule for fasting in the Bible is that it must be done with the right intention. Fasting should not be done to impress others or to show off one's spirituality. Jesus warned against this in Matthew 6:16-18, "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 what is done in secret, will reward you."

Fasting must be accompanied by prayer

The second rule for fasting in the Bible is that it must be accompanied by prayer. Fasting without prayer is merely a diet. It is through prayer that we connect with God and seek His guidance. In Joel 2:12-13, God says, "Even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity."

Fasting should be done voluntarily

The third rule for fasting in the Bible is that it should be done voluntarily. Fasting should not be done under compulsion or as a duty. In Matthew 9:14-15, the disciples of John the Baptist asked Jesus, "How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?" Jesus answered, "How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast."

Fasting should be done with a humble heart

The fourth rule for fasting in the Bible is that it should be done with a humble heart. Fasting should not be done to earn God's favor or to prove one's righteousness. In Isaiah 58:3-5, God says, "Why have we fasted," they say, "and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?" Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high."