Hello Darling,
Welcome back to the blog! Today, I want to share something completely new for me that has truly changed my spiritual life: fasting. Before I started, I honestly didn’t know if I’d even be able to do it. I mean, let’s be real, I’ve got a serious sweet tooth! I’m not a fast-food person, but I do love a good gourmet burger and, oh, sour sweets. Those are a weakness of mine. Whether it’s custard, pastries, or sweet desserts, I’ve always enjoyed indulging in delicious treats.
So when God placed fasting on my heart, I knew it would be a challenge, but I also felt like it was the perfect opportunity to reset, not just spiritually but physically, too. I started researching ways to prepare myself, and I’ll leave links to some YouTube channels below that helped me both before and during my fast. For me, this wasn’t about being a “pro” at fasting, it was about taking small, intentional steps.
If you’re new to fasting, here’s a tip that helped me ease into it: I started with intermittent fasting, eating only within a specific window (like 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Then, I did the OMAD (One Meal a Day) diet for a week, eating one meal within a two-hour window. After that, I transitioned into the big 72-hour water fast. These steps prepared my body and made the experience much easier for me.
What I’ve learned is that fasting isn’t just about giving something up, it’s about what you gain. For me, fasting brought clarity, focus, and a deeper connection with God. I found myself hyper-focused, whether it was during Bible study, writing blog posts, or spending intentional time with my daughter. It helped me see where my attention had been divided and gave me the clarity to refocus on what truly matters.
So if fasting feels intimidating, don’t worry, you don’t have to have it all figured out. I’ve got some tips, personal takeaways, and encouragement to share with you in this blog post. My hope is that by the end, you’ll feel inspired to try fasting for yourself, whether it’s for health, spiritual growth, or both.
So let’s start with how it began, a little while ago, I was in a season where it felt like my entire life was shifting all at once. Have you ever felt that way? Like the ground beneath you is constantly moving, and you just can’t seem to catch a break?
For me, there were too many changes happening in such a short period of time. It was overwhelming, almost suffocating. I found myself questioning everything: my purpose, my decisions, and even the direction my life was heading. I felt so lost like I was just drifting without an anchor.
It was in this state of confusion and uncertainty that God placed fasting on my heart. I felt Him calling me to pause, step away from the noise, and dedicate time to focus solely on Him. That’s when I decided to go on a 3-day water fast, not because I had it all figured out, but because I didn’t. I was desperate for His guidance and presence.
How Fasting Helped Me Find Clarity
Fasting wasn’t easy, especially at first. Removing food from my life for such a long period required more than physical discipline—it required spiritual surrender. But what I gained from it was worth every challenge:
- Spiritual Clarity: By clearing out the distractions (including constant thoughts about meals), I was able to hear God more clearly. He reminded me that even when life feels chaotic, He is unchanging.
- Peace in the Storm: During the fast, I experienced a supernatural sense of peace that didn’t make sense given the circumstances around me. It was a reminder that God’s peace surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
- Renewed Strength: Fasting taught me to rely not on my strength but on God’s. When my physical body felt weak, I turned to prayer and worship, and God sustained me.
How to Start Fasting: Tips for Beginners
If you’re feeling called too fast but don’t know where to begin, here are some practical tips:
- Pray About It First: Seek God’s guidance to confirm the purpose and duration of your fast.
- Set a Goal: Write down what you’re fasting for, whether it’s clarity, healing, breakthrough, or simply drawing closer to God.
- Start Small: If fasting feels intimidating, start with skipping one meal or fasting for a day. You can build up to longer fasts over time.
- Stay Focused on God: Spend the time you would have used eating to pray, worship, or study the Bible. Fasting is not just about giving something up but about filling that space with God.
- Accountability Helps: Share your fasting plans with a trusted friend or mentor who can encourage and pray for you.
- Prepare Yourself: Before starting, ease into fasting by eating lighter meals and avoiding heavy or processed foods.
- Be Gentle with Yourself: Remember, fasting is a journey. If you struggle or make mistakes, don’t give up. God sees your heart and honours your effort.
- End Gently: When you complete your fast, reintroduce food slowly. Start with small, simple meals to avoid shocking your body.
Encouraging Others to Fast
If someone you know feels unsure about fasting, here’s how you can encourage them:
- Share Your Testimony: Hearing how fasting has impacted your life can inspire others to take that step.
- Make It Relatable: Let them know they can start small, every fast doesn’t have to be a 21-day water fast! Mine was only 3 days, I want to work up to longer though.
- Provide Resources: Share scriptures like Isaiah 58, Daniel 1:8-16, or Matthew 6:16-18, and suggest books or sermons about fasting.
- Fast Together: Suggest fasting as a group for support and accountability.
Here are the YouTube channels that helped me during my fasting journey:
- A Healthy Alternative
This channel offers practical tips and inspiration for fasting, especially for beginners. The content focuses on safe fasting practices, benefits, and how to prepare your body for a successful fast. - Dr. Mindy Pelz
Dr. Mindy provides detailed insights into the science of fasting, including how fasting impacts your body specifically for women, tips for different types of fasts, and strategies for success. Her approach combines practical advice with a deep understanding of health and wellness.
Both channels helped me, prepare to fast, during the fast or understand how to break a fast safely. I highly recommend checking them out if you’re considering starting your fasting journey!
Why Fasting is So Powerful
So why fast? For me, fasting was about surrender. It was a way of saying, “God, I can’t do this on my own. I need You to take control.” Fasting isn’t about perfection; it’s about seeking His presence with an open and humble heart.
The Bible reminds us in Isaiah 58:6 that true fasting breaks chains sets people free, and leads to spiritual improvement. When we fast with the right motives, it’s not just a sacrifice, it’s an act of worship.
My Call to You
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life or disconnected from God, consider fasting. It doesn’t have to be long or extreme, just intentional. Set aside the distractions and create space for Him to move in your life. I promise you, God will meet you there.
A Prayer for Those Fasting:
Lord, I come to You with a humble heart, seeking Your guidance and peace. I pray for the strength and clarity to focus on You during this time of fasting. Help me to draw closer to You and to trust in Your plan for my life. Thank You for being my anchor, even during change. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thank you so much for spending this time with me and letting me share my fasting journey with you. Fasting is something I never thought I’d be able to do, but with God’s guidance and preparation, it became one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It taught me discipline, brought me closer to God, and helped me refocus in ways I never expected.
If fasting is something you’re considering, I hope this blog post has encouraged you to take that first step. Remember, it’s not about being perfect or following a set formula, it’s about seeking God with a humble heart and allowing Him to meet you in that space.
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you fasted before? Are you thinking about starting? Feel free to share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments, I’m here to cheer you on.
Until next time, stay blessed, stay intentional, and keep seeking His presence.
Sending blessings your way!
Scherise. X
