Fasting isn’t something most people enjoy talking about. It’s not exciting like worship or comforting like prayer. But in Scripture, fasting is one of the most powerful ways believers reconnect with God — not to earn His attention, but to realign their hearts with His.

When Jesus talked about fasting in Matthew 6, He didn’t say “if you fast.” He said, “When you fast.” He assumed it would be a normal part of following Him. Fasting wasn’t about impressing anyone — in fact, Jesus told His followers not to look sad or draw attention to it. He said that when we fast secretly, “your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

So why should you fast?

Because fasting creates space for clarity.

In Matthew 4, Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness before beginning His ministry. He faced temptation when He was physically weak, but spiritually strong. The devil tried to make Him turn stones into bread, but Jesus said, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” When your stomach is empty, your heart learns what it’s really hungry for.

Fasting exposes what’s been filling you up instead of God. When you go without something — whether it’s food, social media, or distraction — you start to notice how much of your life revolves around comfort and control. Fasting breaks that pattern. It’s not about proving your discipline; it’s about remembering your dependence.

In the book of Ezra, the people fasted before a dangerous journey. Ezra said they did it “to humble ourselves before our God and ask Him for a safe journey” (Ezra 8:21). Fasting is a physical act of humility — a way of saying, “God, I need You more than what I’m giving up.” It reminds you that every need — physical, emotional, or spiritual — points back to Him.

Fasting also shifts your focus from asking God for things to simply being with Him. In Acts 13, the early church fasted and prayed before sending out Paul and Barnabas. They didn’t fast to twist God’s arm — they did it to listen better. That’s what fasting really does. It quiets the noise so you can hear God’s voice more clearly.

If you’ve never fasted before, start simple. Skip one meal. Take that time to pray, read Scripture, or just sit in silence. When you feel hungry, use it as a reminder that your real hunger is for God’s presence.

The Bible never says fasting earns favor or forgiveness — Jesus already gave you both. But it does say that fasting draws you nearer to Him. It helps you see what truly satisfies.

So don’t fast to look spiritual. Fast to become sensitive — to His Word, His presence, and His leading. Because when you make room for God, He fills it.

When you’re not sure how to pray, A.C.T.S. gives you a simple path to follow: Adore, Confess, Thank, and Ask.

Adoration: God, You are my provider and my strength. You satisfy what nothing else can.

Confession: I’ve often filled my life with things that don’t last. Forgive me for forgetting how much I depend on You.

Thanksgiving: Thank you for always providing — not just food, but peace, guidance, and grace I don’t deserve.

Supplication: Teach me to hunger for Your Word more than anything else. Help me focus on You when I feel weak.

In Jesus name, Amen

“Firm Foundation” by Cody Carnes & Maverick City

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Zach and the Daily Devotion team