Importance of Fasting - 7 Benefits

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Various parts of the bible talk about how God's people prayed and fasted for multiple reasons. However, the importance of fasting is not always emphasized in the church, which is why few Christians do it and do not see it as a vital component of their Christian walk.


1. Does God expect Christians to fast?

God expects us to fast. Fasting is not given as an option in the bible.



Based on the above verses, it is evident that Jesus said Christians should fast when Christ was no longer on earth.

2. Seven Benefits of Fasting and Prayer

A. Old Testament reasons why believers fasted

1. For deliverance from enemies



2. It is a sign that we are serious about turning to God.

Sin causes us to have a broken relationship with God, and when we both pray and fast, it shows that we are truly repentant of our sin and are serious about turning to Him. When God sees that we are serious about repentance, He returns to us.


3. It is a sign of revival and resulted in the judgment of God reversed against an evil nation.

4. To hear God's voice more clearly and get direction from God.

After Daniel fasted and prayed, the angel Gabriel came to him to enable him to understand the prophecy more clearly.


B. New Testament reasons why believers fasted.

1. For making important spiritual decisions like deciding the next step in the gospel commission.



2. For effective deliverance from demons.

Some people are demon-possessed, and some demons come out through both prayer and fasting.
Therefore if you do not fast, you will struggle to cast the demon out of the person.


3. It has resulted in salvation.

Cornelius used to fast often, and God sent His angel to show him who he needed to communicate to get saved.



Other Recommended Resources

- Alms, Fasting, and Prayer - Video







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