Hello, darling welcome back to the blog!

This morning was one of those mornings. The kind where the smell of freshly made toast seemed louder than my resolve to fast. My little one sat at the table with jam all over her face, happily devouring her breakfast, while I tried to drown out the enticing crunch by reading Scripture. Fasting, as you might know, is not for the faint-hearted. It’s one thing to declare, “I’m going too fast for spiritual growth!” and another to follow through when your stomach starts rumbling like a discontented toddler.

If you’ve ever struggled with fasting, trust me, you’re not alone. The flesh has a way of screaming louder than our faith at times, doesn’t it? But here’s the truth: fasting isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about drawing closer to God, quieting the noise of the world, and reminding ourselves that our dependence is on Him, not on what’s in the fridge.

In today’s blog post, I’ll share some practical tips and biblical encouragement for those moments when your flesh is saying, “No way!” but your spirit is saying, “Keep going.” Whether you’re new to fasting or a seasoned warrior in the spiritual discipline, there’s something here for you. 

Why Does the Flesh Fight Back?

The flesh is often described as our carnal nature, which is naturally opposed to the things of God. In Romans 7:18, Paul writes, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells.” Our flesh doesn’t want to submit to God, it doesn’t want to fast, and it doesn’t want to pray. It craves comfort, instant gratification, and pleasure. And fasting, which requires discipline and sacrifice, goes against everything the flesh wants.

So, when you’re in the middle of a fast and you’re struggling with cravings, fatigue, or distractions, know that it’s normal. Your flesh is doing what it’s supposed to do: it’s fighting back. But you don’t have to give in to it.

How Do We Overcome the Flesh?

The key to overcoming the flesh is submission. It’s not about white-knuckling it through the fast; it’s about surrendering to God. As you fast, you’re making space for God to work in your life. When you feel your flesh screaming for food or comfort, that’s the perfect opportunity to turn to God in prayer. You’re not just fasting from food, you’re fasting from your flesh. And the more you lean into God, the stronger you become spiritually.

I remember one time when I was fasting and I was struggling. My flesh was crying out for food, and I felt weak both physically and emotionally. But I reminded myself that fasting is not just about denying my body—it’s about making my spirit stronger. It’s about breaking free from the control that food and cravings have over me and instead letting God fill me.

One of the ways I’ve been able to push through these difficult moments is by praying through the cravings. I remind myself that my flesh is temporary, but my spirit is eternal. And as I pray, I feel the Holy Spirit strengthen me and give me the grace to keep going. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” And when we fast, it’s Christ’s strength that enables us to overcome our flesh.

The Breakthroughs That Come Through Fasting

Fasting isn’t just about saying “no” to food; it’s about saying “yes” to God. It’s about making space in your life for Him to work in ways that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. Fasting allows us to hear God more clearly, to be more sensitive to His leading, and to experience breakthroughs that we might not have received if we hadn’t taken the time to truly surrender to Him.

When I started fasting regularly, I noticed a shift in my prayer life. I became more focused, more in tune with the Holy Spirit, and more confident in hearing God’s voice. But it wasn’t easy, fasting was, and still is, a spiritual discipline that requires intentionality and persistence.

You’re Not Alone

If you’re struggling with fasting, you’re not alone. I’ve seen so many people face the same challenges and I’ve experienced them myself. But I want to encourage you that the struggle is part of the process. The flesh will fight, but through the strength of the Holy Spirit, you will overcome. Every moment of weakness is an opportunity for God to show His strength.

If you’re in the middle of a fast and you’re feeling discouraged, take a moment to pray and ask God for strength. Ask Him to help you resist the pull of your flesh and to give you the grace to finish strong. Remember, fasting is a time for personal improvement, it’s about becoming more like Christ and less like the world.

Let’s encourage one another as we continue on this journey of fasting and prayer. And when we do experience breakthroughs, let’s give all the glory to God, for He is the one who strengthens us and empowers us to overcome the flesh.

A Prayer for Strength During Fasting:

Father, thank You for this time of fasting and prayer. I submit my will to You, and I ask for Your strength to resist the cravings and distractions of the flesh. Help me to stay focused on You and to hear Your voice clearly. I pray for breakthroughs in my life and in the lives of others who are fasting alongside me. May Your Holy Spirit empower me to continue this fast and draw closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Well, darling, the toast temptation is long gone now, and instead, I’m sipping on a warm cup of herbal tea, feeling much more connected to God than I did this morning. Fasting isn’t about conquering our flesh in one heroic moment, it’s about the steady, faithful surrender of our desires to the One who satisfies us completely.

If your flesh is throwing a tantrum while you fast, don’t beat yourself up. Instead, lean into God’s strength and ask for His help. He knows the struggle, and He’s right there with you, cheering you on as you prioritise Him over your cravings.

Thank you for sharing this journey with me. I’m praying that as you fast, you’ll find yourself drawn deeper into God’s presence and filled with His peace. And remember, even when it feels like your flesh is winning, every small act of obedience counts in His kingdom.

Until next time, keep seeking Him first—and maybe hide the jam, sweets and chocolates for a few days. 😉

Sending blessings to you!

Scherise. X