GET THE FACTS ON FASTING

Fasting is one of the most misunderstood subjects in the Bible. We don't fast to earn something; we fast to make a connection with our supernatural God. We are cleaning out the "pipe" that connects us to the anointing of God. It becomes corroded through the normal course of living in a fallen world, and the best way to cleanse our spiritual system is through prayer and fasting.

How long is long enough? Begin with one day a week. Try to make it a water-only fast if possible, unless you have some physical problem. You may supplement it with fruit and vegetable juices. Begin after dinner in the evening and fast until dinner the next day.

Why does it feel so bad? Nearly everyone experiences certain unpleasant side effects when beginning a fast. You may get a headache, feel slightly nauseated, or dizzy at first. This is because there are accumulated poisons stored in your body that are purged when you finally rest your intestines and stomach. Once you press through the three-day barrier, you will begin to feel good.

Should I tell others? Fasting is not a badge of honor. It is an intimate time with God that doesn't need to be shared.

What if I break my fast in a moment of weakness? Weakness is a natural part of the fasting discipline. It's a way to understand your desires for the things of this world. Don't kick yourself if you break the fast. You still accomplished much and God is pleased with your heart's desire for more of Him.

Is there ONE way to fast? There are many different kinds of fasts:
A. The complete fast is a total fast in which you eat and drink nothing. The maximum time for this is three days and nights. (Ezra 8:21; 10:6; Ester 4:16).
B. The normal fast, which Jesus observed in the wilderness, involves total abstention from food, but regular intake of water. You could substitute an herbal tea or add a little lemon or honey to your water.
C. The Daniel fast or partial fast is when you eat "no pleasant meat" but instead eat vegetables and drink water. This is practical for people who have diabetes, hypoglycemia, or anemia.
D. The group fast or corporate fast is the kind that turned God's wrath away from the wicked city of Nineveh. Certain types of food are eliminated for several weeks by a group of people.

What should I avoid? Acidic juices (orange, grapefruit) because they can overwhelm your system. Dilute juices, eliminate meats and desserts. You may want to eat only fruits, nuts, and vegetables.

What's going on with my body? You may feel weak at times. Don't abuse your body. Rest more, cut back on your schedule. A fast gives you a chance to tell your body who is boss. Every craving does not have to be honored.

How do I start? Start small and move toward longer fasts slowly. The discipline of fasting is a flexible discipline that is focused on intimacy with God. Don't begin with a 21- or 40-day fast. It is just as scriptural to go on a one-day fast.

What do I do besides not eating? Give time to Bible reading and prayer. The time spent preparing and eating meals can be spent in intentional prayer time. Expect mental attacks from Satan, in the form of depression that manifests itself in a sense of heaviness.

How do I end the fast? Treat your body kindly and with respect. Don't go out and get the biggest steak you can find. Gradually re-enter fruits, salads, yogurt - in small portions.

Mahesh Chavda is founder and senior pastor of All Nations Church in Charlotte, N.C. An international evangelist, Mahesh and his wife, Bonnie, have led more than 700,000 people to Christ around the glove. They oversee the worldwide Watch of the Lord prayer movement.

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