Guest Post: Holy Hunger (Part 2)

Yesterday was the first guest post we’ve had here on this blog. I’m hoping that it’ll be the first of many to come. If you have an idea for an article which you would like to have published here, please contact me and we can try and work something out.

So yesterday, in preparation for Lent, I invited my good friend Dominic to speak to us on the subject of fasting. He gave us an introduction to the subject, spoke about some of the examples we have from Sacred Scripture and discussed the motivation behind fasting.

Today he’s going to offer some concluding thoughts…

Preparation for Fasting

We need to go into fasting with a positive attitude, knowing that fasting is the will of God and is rewarded (Matthew 6:17-18). Also since our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), it is entirely appropriate for us to benefit physically as well as spiritually from fasting.

Pray for strength and take things one step at a time. Guard against spiritual attack. The Devil doesn’t like fasting and he will try to undermine you. You may feel doubts, fear, loneliness or temptations. Stand firm knowing that God loves you and rewards those who diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6).

The ‘Daniel’ Fast

The best way to start is with what we are used to – what we do in Lent – doing without treats etc. Interestingly this is like Daniel’s fast. He “ate no rich food or meat, drunk no wine and used no fragrant oils” (Daniel 10:3).  In other words he cut out treats, desserts, seasoning etc. Note the abstinence from meat. The idea is to eat simple, plain food and drink water.

It is encouraging to remember that Daniel did this for 3 weeks and God heard his prayer and changed the King to one who allowed the people of Israel to return home – it is powerful! Why not start by making every Friday a Lenten day with a ‘Daniel’ type fast? Then add Wednesday later and restore the ancient practice we spoke about yesterday. Fast quietly and discreetly (Matthew 6:16) and carry on normal activities as much as possible.

Going Deeper

As one gets used to fasting it becomes less threatening and we can go deeper. As one feels able or as the Lord prompts, portions of meals can be reduced or replaced with just bread. On a practical note, drinking water when doing this kind of fast cleanses the system and mitigates the feeling of hunger.

As time goes on one can skip a meal, fast for a day or even several days (unless it is medically inadvisable). Again, gradual progression is the key (as well as guidance from your spiritual director).

Pray & Fast

Fasting empowers prayer. Our intercession is freer and our senses are sharpened because they are not burdened with the energy needed to digest. Take the time saved in not eating to read the Bible, to pray and seek the Lord, and intercede with faith and power. Keep a list of requests made with fasting – their answers will provide plenty of reasons to praise God!

Conclusion

With the Bible, the early Church, the saints and countless Christians down the ages bearing witness to the incredible power of prayer with fasting, what are we waiting for?

The Kingdom of God does not mean food and drink but righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit – Romans 14:17