where in the bible does it say how long to fast?

Answer 1

Scripture does not command Christians to fast. It is not something that God requires or demands of Christians. At the same time, the Bible presents fasting as something that is good, profitable, and expected. The Book of Acts records believers fasting before they made important decisions (Acts 13:4; 14:23). Fasting and prayer are often linked together (Luke 2:37; 5:33). Too often, the focus of fasting is on the lack of food. Instead, the purpose of fasting should be to take your eyes off the things of this world, and instead focus on God. Fasting is a way to demonstrate to God, and to yourself, that you are serious about your relationship with Him. Fasting helps you to gain a new perspective and a renewed reliance upon God.

Although fasting in Scripture is almost always a fasting from food, there are other ways to fast. Anything you can temporarily give up in order to better focus on God can be considered a fast (1 Corinthians 7:1-5). Fasting should be limited to a set time, especially when the fasting is from food. Extended periods of time without eating are harmful to the body. Fasting is not intended to punish your flesh, but to focus on God. Fasting should not be considered a “dieting method” either. Do not fast to lose weight, but rather to gain deeper fellowship with God. Yes, anyone can fast. Some may not be able to fast from food (diabetics for example), but everyone can temporarily give up something in order to focus on God.

By taking our eyes off the things of this world, we can focus better on Christ. Fasting is not a way to get God to do what we want. Fasting changes us, not God. Fasting is not a way to appear more spiritual than others. Fasting is to be done in a spirit of humility and a joyful attitude. Matthew 6:16-18 declares, “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, 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 men 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.”

Answer 2

It doesn't. Fasts in the Bible could last anywhere from a day to forty days.

Answer 3

Jesus told his disciples they would not be able to cast out demons without prayer and fasting, but he did not tell them how long to fast.

Answer 4

Isa 58:3 Wherefore have we fasted, [say they], and thou seest not? [wherefore] have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours.

Vanity, vanity.

Answer 5

the bible doesnt even tell you to fast...

1 Corinthians 8:8
But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do.

Answer 6

it doesnt say how long you should it says how long jesus did and it was for 40 days so we should follow that i dont know where it says it though

Answer 7

I don't know. tried 3 days and nights in the wilderness. all i got was God's will will be done. that's it i thought!

Answer 8

somewhere in Leviticus ..24 hrs but its not fun

Answer 9

It doesn't. (at least to my knowledge). That is something Catholics came up with on their own...probably took it out of the Old Testament, which as you should know, we no longer have to follow.

Hope that helps! :-)

Answer 10

go to www.bible.com or www.biblegateway.com

and use the search engine...

happy reading :o)