Fasting Gives a New Perspective on Food

Spiritual disciplines are tried and true methods that help you develop a closer walk with God. How do they work? I am not really sure, but it seems you put a little effort in them and God honors your efforts and magnifies Himself in your life. Face it, God wants you to know Him more. Spiritual disciplines tell Him you are serious. They mark off a period of time set apart to be with the Lord. He wants to bless you with Himself.

Fasting is a spiritual discipline where you take a break from food in order to concentrate more fully on God. Food is notorious for covering up emotions and problems, so there is a tendency when fasting for issues to rise to the surface. If you have set the time aside to pray and mediate on the Word too you can expect God to speak to you on the issues that arise. Fasting is a good solution when you are stuck emotionally; need to make an important decision, break a habit, work through a difficult problem or just need to extend forgiveness when it seems impossible.

Fasting regularly over a period of time will build inner strength and create a reliance on God. When trials come you are better prepared to face them because of an inner confidence that come from knowing with God's help you are able to handle situations. For an example, let's say you are tempted with a particular sin. Knowing you are able to refrain from food helps you realize you can also refrain from the sin you are being tempted with.

Instead of using food to deaden your emotions fasting gives you a new perspective on food. I would say a more joyous perspective. There is something wonderful about finishing a fast and breaking it with food. It develops a desire to put good foods in your body. There is a greater appreciation for your body having set it apart for God for a time. It is easier to see your body is a temple for the Lord.

I Corinthians 6:19-20

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. (NIV)