Maintain a casual attitude around everyone else to keep your fast discreet: “That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret…” (Matthew 6:18). When you fast, you humble yourself and devote yourself completely to God. Use this time to tell the Lord that your primary focus is prayer.
“As your humble servant, I ask for your support in renewing my faith and bringing me back to you, my Lord. ” “Please grant me the wisdom to resist temptation and follow a righteous path, Dear Father God. ” “Jesus, I pray for solace during these times. Please help me find a spouse who will support and cherish me. ” “God, I ask for confidence and guidance. As your faithful follower, I am praying that you will direct me on the professional path that’s best for me. ” “Lord, I believe in your divine plan. Will you please lead me to friends who will support my dreams?”
“I struggle with self-doubt and am tempted to push people away. Will you please help me resist shutting the world out so I can find love?” “I am troubled with anxiety. Can you keep me from surrendering to my insecurities so I can be my best self?” “I feel that I need to accept anyone who walks into my life, even if they’re not good for me. Will you help me avoid people who can harm me so I can find true allies?” While the pull of temptations or fear may feel strong, know that the Lord will guide you away from these influences: “And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).
A “soul fast” is one in which you give up an activity that takes up a lot of time, like video games. When you start a “soul fast,” you’ll be able to shift your focus away from fun hobbies and toward God. A “soul” fast is less about “giving up” pleasures and more connected to returning to your spiritual path: “I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom” (Psalm 35:13).
Consult your doctor before making any dietary decisions about your fast. You can still drink water during a “total” fast and should remain well hydrated during any fast. One example of a “selective” fast is the “Daniel Fast”—you remove bread, sweets, and meat from your diet. Remember that Daniel chose to give up the foods and drinks that gave him the most earthly pleasure: “In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth…” (Daniel 10:2-3).
Start by calling out to God. For example, say, “Lord, I give you my complete and undivided attention. I open my heart to you. ” Repeat your intention. For instance, you might ask, “I am reaching out again so I can find the bravery to follow my artistic passions. ” End my thanking the Lord for the gift that’s in store for you. Express yourself with a comment like, “I know that you know what’s best for me and will lead me toward that. ”
Since fasting allows you to open your heart up to God’s power, Bible verses may move you even more than they usually do. During this time, you may discover verses that you’ll continue to turn to after you end your fast.
Once you’ve written your devotionals, you can create daily diary entries that simply log what your day was like. You might notice your quality of life improves over the course of your fast thanks to God’s influence. [9] X Research source
God won’t give you a direct “yes” or “no” answer—you’ll have to pray often, reflect on your wish, and observe the world around you. For example, if you want a sign that you’ll experience peace with your family, you may witness a beautiful dove outside when you visit your parents. The Lord inspires you to take action once you witness a sign: “It shall be when these signs come to you, do for yourself what the occasion requires, for God is with you” (1 Samuel 10:7).
You have more opportunities to express your love for the Lord if you fast each and every day that you agreed to. If you do miss a day or two, then it’s more important to continue with the rest of your fast—you’ll still highlight your dedication if you keep trying to complete your spiritual journey.
If you feel divinely inspired to continue and it’s healthy to do so, you can extend the length of your fast. When you do break a fast from food, eat small meals to allow your body to adjust to solids again.
You may notice small signs from God at random points of your life. For example, if you asked for a change in scenery, a distant relative may give you a postcard with a gorgeous landscape on it. When you are granted the breakthrough you asked for, make time to thank the Lord for listening to your prayers. Miracles happen on God’s timeline and when you remain faithful. Take heart and focus on the Lord’s reassurance: “I am the LORD, the God of all humankind. Is anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27).
