josh whitehead

This year one of my goals is to fast more – not just in quantity (the number of times that I fast) but in quality as well (truly fasting with purpose). Late last year I recognized that for the most part, fasting was virtually non-existent in my life. This year I have fasted 10 days to date – and I recently completed a 7-day fast, which was actually a spiritual first for me. I’ve noticed several things about fasting:

• Fasting (just not eating) is easy for me. But fasting (keeping a spiritual purpose and direction during the fast) is more of a struggle. In the past, I fasted without even praying much. I’ve changed that this year and really focused on seeking Him through my fasts (isn’t that what I’m supposed to do?).
• Fasting has opened my eyes to miracles. Two times this year I have fasted for a friend of mine who was battling cancer. Honestly, I struggled with God for him. Last week I found out that after a major surgery, he is cancer free. Obviously, it wasn’t just my fast – but my commitment to fasting has opened my eyes to see God at work around me.
• Fasting helps me think better or more clearly. Some of my greatest thoughts this year have happened during fasts or just before or after fasting when my awareness for God was heightened.
• Fasting, as a part of God’s timing, is awesome. Since January, I have asked God to show me when to fast – and He has. Three fasts have began at God just laying it on my heart to pray for people and fast for them.
• Fasting as a couple is hard (especially with little kids). Kim and I completed a 7-day fast together. That may have been the grumpiest week of our lives!

Not sure where you are in your walk with Christ, but consider fasting. If you do fast, don’t waste your time like I have done so often in the past – have a purpose and follow His leading! I’m not an expert here, but I am definitely learning more than I ever have about the subject.