Does Fasting Even Matter Anymore

Fasting is an ancient spiritual practice that has lost some of its prominence in modern Christianity, but it remains a powerful tool for returning to God’s heart. When practiced intentionally, fasting creates space to refocus our dependence on God rather than worldly comforts.

Why Fasting Still Matters

In scripture, fasting was often tied to repentance, seeking divine direction, and deepening one’s relationship with God. Jesus Himself fasted for 40 days before beginning His ministry, demonstrating the significance of this discipline. Though fasting may seem outdated, its ability to prune distractions and draw believers closer to God remains crucial today.

Fasting as a Call to Return

Fasting invites us to return to the spiritual intimacy we may have experienced when we first met Christ. This practice can reignite our hunger for God and rekindle our "first love" with Him. Jeremiah 2:2 speaks of God longing for our devotion as we wander through spiritual wildernesses, seeking Him above all else. Through fasting, we carve out space for God to fill, recognizing how easily modern life clutters our relationship with Him.

Fasting for Consecration and Purpose

Fasting is also an act of consecration. Just as Old Testament objects were set apart for God’s use, fasting sets our hearts and lives apart for His will. It’s a time of spiritual pruning, where we eliminate sinful distractions or compromises that hinder our closeness with God. Isaiah reminds us that our sins separate us from Him, and fasting helps us realign our hearts with purity and holiness. The result is a deeper sense of God's presence and purpose in our lives.

Practical Applications for Fasting Today

While fasting traditionally involves abstaining from food, modern believers can also fast from other distractions such as social media, entertainment, or anything that takes undue precedence over God. In every form, fasting centers our reliance on Christ. John 15:5 tells us that apart from Him, we can do nothing, and fasting reinforces this truth by reminding us that our strength and sustenance come from Him alone.

In this season of transition, whether it's personal growth, a new ministry direction, or deeper spiritual renewal, fasting remains a critical way to humble ourselves and seek God’s face. Let us return to fasting with purpose, making room for God to work in our hearts and lives.

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