Break Bad Habits
Build Better Ones
Become Better Men
- Nate Whitson -
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." - Matthew 6:16-18
When's the last time you've fasted?
If I was a betting man I'd bet a lot to say that your response would likely be:
"It's been a while." (meaning you probably have at one point in your life but you can't think of when the last time was) - or -
"I never have."
How'd I do? Did you answer the question with a similar answer?
If so, why is that?
Why don't Christians fast and should you be doing it more often?
Here's a few thoughts for you to consider today as you think about that question and about becoming the man that God meant for you to be and the role that fasting might play in your development:
- It looks like Jesus expects that you would, indeed, fast. The clue that this is what He meant was this --> He didn't say "If" you fast but "when" you do. Fasting was expected by Jesus, and He also spent a lot of time fasting and in prayer. So it seems that maybe we ought to do the same.
- Your excuses are lame. Go ahead. List out what your excuses for not fasting are then send them to me - [email protected]. I'm not the judge and jury but I know my excuses are lame and I bet I'm likely not much different than you. Be honest about why you're not making fasting a routine that you follow and man up if your excuses don't add up.
- You'll learn a lot about yourself. Fasting is about giving up something you love (i.e. food/pleasure) for something you love even more (i.e. connection with God). What you might learn is that you are not mentally strong enough yet. That you are controlled by food more than you were aware. That saying no to yourself is harder than you thought it would be. That God is not a big part of your daily life and thoughts. So, if you want to know Him more and experience Him more, make fasting a part of your week.
- It's okay to work your way up. If fasting is new to you, just start with doing it through breakfast. When your body reminds you of food, use that time to thank God for His daily provision in your life and how grateful you are for the upcoming meal. Then (maybe the next day), build up a little bit and fast both breakfast and lunch. The next day, fast through dinner as well and then have a small snack before bed. The next day, a full 24-hour fast. Work your way up and see what God would suggest from here.
The bottom line is this:
Fasting is for your benefit and all godly men fast.
If you want the blessings and benefits that God has in store for you, then learn to fast.
Why?
Because you love Him and want to please Him and be closer to Jesus.
Do it because you want to - not because you have to and see how it goes.
Nate
----------------👇🏻 👇🏻 ------------------
P.S.
Has fasting been a regular part of your life?
Studies show that only approximately 10-15% of Christians regularly fast as a part of their spiritual disciplines or worship routines.
Want to learn some simple ways to change hard things like this and make it MUCH easier?
Take my free, 7-Day Challenge and learn how to incorporate it (or anything else you need help changing) into your life in just 7 days.
