Fasting with Purpose: A Journey of Faith

Introduction:

We're talking about fasting. Yeah, it's not just for monks or people in ancient times. It’s about hitting the pause button on our fast-paced lives to focus on something deeper.

Think about it: when was the last time you actually stopped, turned off the noise, and just reflected? Fasting is like a detox for the soul, a way to step back from the endless stream of instant gratification and connect with something bigger than ourselves - our spirituality, our faith, and our relationship with God.

Whether you’re a seasoned faster or just curious, today’s session is all about uncovering the power of this ancient practice in our modern life. How can it bring clarity, deepen our faith, and even challenge the way we view our daily routines? Let’s unpack this together and maybe, just maybe, discover a new way to recharge our spiritual batteries.

Why Should We Fast?

1. To Seek God's Will and Guidance:

- Scripture: "So we fasted and pleaded with our God about this, and he granted our request." (Ezra 8:23 CSB).

- Meaning: Fasting is not just abstaining from food; it's a heartfelt plea for God's direction and presence in our lives.

2. To Humble Ourselves Before God:

- Scripture: "Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river Ahava so that we might humble ourselves before our God to seek from him a safe journey for us, our children, and all our possessions." (Ezra 8:21 CSB).

- Meaning: Fasting is a physical expression of our spiritual need, an acknowledgment that we depend on God more than earthly sustenance.

3. To Focus on Spiritual Matters:

- Scripture: "But the time will come when the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast on that day." (Mark 2:20 CSB).

- Meaning: Jesus hinted at fasting as a practice for his followers, indicating times when spiritual focus should outweigh physical needs.

What Happens When We Fast Incorrectly?

1. Fasting for Show:

- Scripture: "Whenever you fast, don’t be gloomy like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces so their fasting is obvious to people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward." (Matthew 6:16 CSB).

- Caution: Fasting should be a private act of worship, not a public display of piety.

2. Neglecting the True Essence of Fasting:

- Scripture: "Isn’t this the fast I choose: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the ropes of the yoke, to set the oppressed free, and to tear off every yoke?" (Isaiah 58:6 CSB).

- Reflection: True fasting goes beyond physical abstinence; it's about liberation, justice, and love for others.

Conclusion:

As young adults, you stand at a pivotal point in life. Fasting offers a path to spiritual depth and personal growth. Remember, it's not just about giving up food; it's about opening up to God. Let your fasting be genuine, reflective, and transformative. Let it draw you closer to the heart of God and the needs of your neighbor.

"Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the Lord's glory will be your rear guard." (Isaiah 58:8 CSB).

May your journey of fasting be blessed, purposeful, and guided by the Holy Spirit.

Amen.