I am talking about Biblical fasting, for God. I know about a church that is doing a congregational fast. They are supposed to pray and fast from certain foods. Is there a correct way to do it. I kknow that they pray and stuff but is there anything else that is supposed to be done a certain way?
Also, what about telling others that you are on a fast. Is that wrong or acceptable?
thanks
2007-01-07 15:11:08 · 13 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Fasting is a way for us to appreciate what we have. By fasting in Lent (for example) we give up bad habits, types of food, etc. so as to reflect better upon ourselves. It's a time for introspection, to appreciate what we have and understand what it's like to have not.
I do tell the people in my life that I'm fasting. I give up meat during Lent and if I'm out with my friends I want them to know why I'm not eating what they may be serving so as not to be rude.
2007-01-07 15:20:01 · answer #1 · answered by tropicalturbodave 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I do not think it is wrong. At my church the pastor will say that he is going to be fasting, or abstaining from certain things for usually a week. It could be something simple, like soda or coffee, and then during the time that you would have your morning coffee, then you would instead of having that coffee, read the bible or perhaps pray. Just so you know, I have never heard of it being a requirement to participate in a fast, I think it is just your personal choice.
2007-01-07 23:14:30 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
A fast is when you replace something with prayer. Often, people will fast meal(s). But you can fast anything - the computer, TV, shopping etc.
There isn't really a "certain way." You just sacrifice something for God, by replacing it with prayer, and let prayer fill that need/want.
You can tell others you are fasting. It's acceptable. I've never heard of anyone not accepting it. As long as you're not arrogant or proud about it.
2007-01-07 23:19:34 · answer #3 · answered by What's in a name? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The Bible mentions not trying to look like you're suffering when you fast, to try and impress people with how pious you are. Other than that, the main thing is focusing on prayer and spiritual things while abstaining from the material world and the flesh - this is what the going without food represents. I think some people also abstain from sex while fasting but I don't recall anything about that in the Bible.
2007-01-07 23:17:46 · answer #4 · answered by Matt c 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Fasting is an ancient spiritual discipline for many reliigions. Hence there are many ways to engage in such. Christians often practice a "Biblical" fast similar to the moslems. Nothing, although sips of water are allowed, is taken from sun-up till sun-down. The time "saved" can be used for meditation, Bible reading, praying, or ordinary living in the grace of God.
I have found other types of fasting equally helpful: abstinence from the Internet refocuses a tendency to become addicted. Fasting from sex is used for prayer acccording to Paul. Then there is a very difficult one in our culture - from violence. the list goes on according to one's life style. The point is to refocus around God as first and foremost desire of one's life.
Jesus instructs us in Mt. 6 not to let our fasting be known.
2007-01-07 23:18:03 · answer #5 · answered by Joe Cool 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
definately pray..you need time to spend with the Lord especially if you have ample time..like if you are not working you have lots of time to pray..and read...which should be done alone..in a serene place ...(use wisdom)...if you can spare 24 hours indoors...in your room...
If it does not interfere with your necessary routine..like work school...try to keep it to yourself...but only if necessary..would you need tell another...
wake up in the morning wash your face and anoint yourself..if you have some anointing oil..
go through your day as usual.and ...be open to the Lord speaking to you...directing you...
avoid worldy distractions ...like T.V...games or secular music..the telephone...or worldy conversations...keep your mind focused on hearing the Lord...HE WILL speak...when you pray ...do so under direction of the Lord or at least once and hour...finally when finishing ..pray before eating...God bless
2007-01-07 23:21:44 · answer #6 · answered by soldier612 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Fast as you feel lead to. There's no formula for a perfect fast. And just try to be humble regarding addressing the fast around other people.
2007-01-07 23:14:40 · answer #7 · answered by ? 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
While fasting you must refrain from any food and any liquid even water from sun up to sun down after sun down you may eat food you normally eat just stay away from pork and alcohol. It is fine to let another know that you are fasting.
2007-01-07 23:15:29 · answer #8 · answered by klynna 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Isaiah 58:6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?
7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?
8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.
2007-01-07 23:15:17 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
you should also understand why you are fasting and what the importance of the fast is.
Also, I believe if you feel comftorable telling someone ur fasting its ok, but u shouldnt have to.
2007-01-07 23:14:09 · answer #10 · answered by avirothfeld 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋