Jesus Fasted before He commenced His ministry – Matthew 4:1-2
Before the devil approached Jesus, Jesus, fasted for 40 days in the desert. After which he began His ministry here on earth.
From the examples above, you will note that these were renowned men and women of God. They were people who served Jehovah fiercely. However, because they were flesh and blood, just like us, they needed to tap into the Living Water for refreshing.
Here are a few reasons why people fasted in the bible, courtesy of Rock Church:
- In times of war: The Benjamites fasted and defeated the other Israelites. Judges 20:26
- Repentance: The King of Nineveh ordered the whole city to fast and repent. Consequently, they were forgiven of their sin. Jonah 3:5
- When facing danger: Ezra fasted as he prayed for wisdom and protection when he prepared the people to return to Jerusalem from Babylon. Ezra 8:21, 23
- Courage and Wisdom: Esther and the Jews of Shushan fasted when faced with their destruction planned by Haman. Esther 4:3,16; 9:31
- In times of grief: A seven-day fast was held when the bones of Saul and his sons were buried. 1 Samuel 31:13; 1 Chronicles 10:12
- In times of distress: David fasted after hearing that Saul and Jonathan were dead. 2 Samuel 1:12
- Ultimate denial of the flesh: Jesus fasted 40 days and 40 nights before being tempted by Satan. Matthew 4:2
- Spiritual Power: Jesus said this kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting. Mark 9:29
- Wisdom: Paul and Barnabas prayed and fasted at the appointment of elders for the churches. Acts 14:23
- Set aside self for holiness: Paul suggested that husbands and wives abstain from sexual relations to give themselves to fasting and prayer. 1 Corinthians 7:5
- Answered prayer: Cornelius fasted four days, after which time an angel appeared to him; consequently, he and his family received the gospel and were baptized. Acts 10:30-31
- Mourning: During his time of mourning, Daniel fasted three weeks, after which time he received a vision. Daniel 10:1-3
- Special revelation: Moses fasted for 40 days and received the law. Exodus 34:27-28
- Spiritual Recuperation: Elijah fasted 40 days after killing prophets of Baal. 1 Kings 19:1-9
Therefore, with this new knowledge, I am sure like me, you will embark on a new journey and understanding of what is required of us to help us endure as God’s children and servants here on earth. It is important that we endeavor to recuperate and fast properly when we become spiritually exhausted; or avoid the occurrence, entirely. It is important that we adopt the Christian lifestyle practice, of fasting and connecting frequently to the Vine.
God bless.
Meditate on God’s Word
Many Christians struggle daily to live according to God’s word. But we need daily nourishment. That is why it is important to read your bible daily; even if it is a few verses and meditate on them.
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More articles on Fasting:
- Christian Testimony 2014: February Facebook Fasting
- Christian Testimony 2014: February Facebook Fasting – Week 1
- Christian Testimony 2014: February Facebook Fasting – Week 2
- Christian Testimony 2014: February Facebook Fasting – Week 3, Day 2
- Christian Testimony 2015: February Facebook Fasting
- Christian Testimony 2015: 40 Days Fasting – Week 4
- Christian Testimony 2015: 40 Days Fasting – Week 6
- The Christian Life: Day 100 Spiritual Exhaustion & Why Fasting is Necessary
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About the writer:
Denise N. Fyffe is a published author of over 40 fiction and non-fiction books. She is also a trainer and mentors aspiring writers towards achieving their goals.
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