How does Jesus want us to fast? This question is of great significance for Christians who seek to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. Fasting, in the Christian context, is not merely about abstaining from food or drink, but it is a spiritual discipline that aims to deepen one’s relationship with God. Jesus himself fasted for forty days and nights, and He also spoke about fasting in the Sermon on the Mount, providing guidance on how His followers should approach this practice.
Fasting, according to Jesus, is a means to purify our hearts and focus our minds on spiritual matters. In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus teaches His disciples that when they fast, they should not look gloomy like the hypocrites. Instead, they should anoint their heads and wash their faces, so that they do not appear to others to be fasting, but to their Father who is in secret. This indicates that Jesus wants us to fast in a manner that is not merely for show, but with humility and sincerity.
One of the key aspects of Jesus’ teaching on fasting is the emphasis on inner transformation. Jesus encourages His followers to fast from worldly desires and distractions, so that they can seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness. In Matthew 6:33, He says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Fasting, in this sense, is a tool to help us prioritize our spiritual life and to cultivate a heart that is aligned with God’s will.
Furthermore, Jesus teaches that fasting should be accompanied by prayer and thanksgiving. In Matthew 6:5-6, He instructs His followers to go into their rooms, close the door, and pray to their Father who is unseen. This implies that fasting is not a solitary act, but a form of prayer that involves seeking God’s presence and guidance. Jesus also emphasizes the importance of gratitude during fasting, as seen in Luke 17:11-19, where He teaches about the gratitude we should have for the blessings we receive from God.
Another important aspect of Jesus’ teaching on fasting is the recognition of personal needs and limitations. Jesus acknowledges that some people may not be able to fast due to health reasons or other circumstances. In Matthew 9:14-15, He says, “Let the one who is unable to fast on the day of purification, fasts another day.” This shows that Jesus wants us to approach fasting with compassion and understanding, recognizing that it is not a one-size-fits-all practice.
In conclusion, Jesus wants us to fast in a manner that is humble, sincere, and focused on spiritual growth. Fasting is not merely about abstaining from food or drink, but it is a tool to help us prioritize our spiritual life, seek God’s kingdom, and cultivate a heart that is aligned with His will. By following Jesus’ teachings on fasting, we can deepen our relationship with God and experience the transformative power of this spiritual discipline.
