Why Fasting Attracts God 2 Things You Should Never Do While Fasting

Summary

This video explores the profound spiritual significance of fasting, often misunderstood in modern times. It explains how fasting, beyond being a physical act, can lead to a deeper, more immediate connection with the divine. Through biblical examples, including Yom Kippur and the teachings of Jesus, the video highlights fasting as a spiritual discipline rooted in faith, repentance, and personal renewal. It also discusses different types of fasts, the importance of sincere motivation, and how fasting can enhance both individual and communal spiritual growth.

Takeaways

• 🙏 Fasting is presented as a gateway to unlocking spiritual power and a deep connection with God.
• 🍽️ Fasting, often misunderstood, is more than just abstaining from food; it is a spiritual discipline that has roots in the Bible.
• 📖 In the Old Testament, fasting was practiced for atonement, particularly on Yom Kippur, when Jews reflected on their salvation and sought forgiveness.
• ✝️ Jesus taught his disciples that fasting should not be performed for public admiration, but as a private, sincere act of faith.
• 🧘 Fasting is a personal spiritual practice that focuses on strengthening the connection with the Divine, not for impressing others or seeking recognition.
• 🤝 Fasting can also be communal, as seen in biblical examples, where groups fasted together for divine intervention and guidance.
• 🌟 There are different types of fasts: absolute fast (no food or water), normal fast (only liquids), and partial fasts like the Daniel fast (vegetables and water).
• 💪 Fasting helps build spiritual strength and is compared to climbing a mountain, where both physical and spiritual perseverance are needed.
• 📝 It's essential to plan and prepare mentally and spiritually before fasting, including writing down the reasons and goals for the fast.
• 👥 Fasting with a companion or in unity with others can provide mutual support, accountability, and enhance the spiritual experience.

Q & A

What is the primary spiritual purpose of fasting according to the video?

The primary spiritual purpose of fasting, as discussed in the video, is to create a deeper and more immediate connection with God. Fasting is seen as a spiritual discipline that enhances personal reflection, repentance, and a stronger connection to divine power.

How does the Bible illustrate the practice of fasting?

The Bible illustrates fasting in both the Old and New Testaments. In the Old Testament, fasting is associated with events like the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur), where the faithful fasted to reflect on their salvation. In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes that fasting should be done with sincerity and not for public recognition.

What warning does Jesus give about fasting?

Jesus warns against fasting for the sake of public approval or recognition. He teaches that fasting should be done privately, as an intimate act of faith between the individual and God, and not to be ostentatious or for the admiration of others.

Why do people find the idea of fasting daunting?

People find fasting daunting because they are conditioned to eat three meals a day and are concerned about feelings of hunger, physical discomfort, and how fasting might be perceived by others. The video also highlights the concern of social pressures and temptations like advertisements promoting food.

What types of fasts are mentioned in the video?

The video mentions several types of fasts, including absolute fasts (complete abstinence from food and water), normal fasts (abstinence from solid foods but allowing liquids), and partial fasts (abstaining from certain types of food, as seen in Daniel's fast). The John Wesley fast, which involves consuming only bread and water for spiritual preparation, is also discussed.

How can fasting strengthen one's spiritual life?

Fasting can strengthen one's spiritual life by building spiritual fitness, fostering personal sacrifice, and enhancing the focus on prayer and intercession. It is seen as a discipline that helps individuals overcome spiritual resistance and seek divine intervention more effectively.

What role does communal fasting play according to the video?

Communal fasting, as illustrated in the video, brings believers together in unity and solidarity for a common spiritual purpose. Examples from the Bible, such as Ezra fasting with 4,000 people and Esther calling for collective fasting, show how fasting can be a shared experience that strengthens the community and amplifies spiritual power.

How does the video suggest beginners approach fasting?

For beginners, the video suggests starting with modest steps, such as a one-day fast or skipping a meal. It emphasizes the importance of not overwhelming the body and of focusing on the sincerity of the heart and relationship with God. Starting small allows individuals to gradually build up their fasting practice.

What are some benefits of fasting with a partner?

Fasting with a partner provides mutual support, accountability, and encouragement. It helps individuals stay committed, share their experiences, and overcome challenges together. The video compares this to exercising with a friend, where the shared journey enhances the experience and motivates both parties to succeed.

What should be considered when choosing a type of fast?

When choosing a type of fast, individuals should consider factors such as their experience with fasting, the seriousness of the issue they are praying about, comfort level, and scheduling. It is important to align the purpose of the fast with the chosen method and to feel confident in the decision.