“When you fast, …” (Mat. 6:16). Millions of people fast each day because they lack food. Thousands fast daily because their doctors order it before a particular test can be performed or to lose weight as the best option to manage their health conditions. Some fast to keep in shape, be attractive, or fit into the wedding dress. In the Old Testament, fasting was required, and people observed it. Today, many ignore the injunctions of the Bible to fast as a spiritual discipline for nourishing the soul. Fasting is not the deluxe version of prayer but basic. Jesus fasted and taught clearly about the necessity of fasting. Fasting is both a spiritual and physical preparation to meet with God. We disengage from regular duties and withdraw from our noisy environment to seek God with all our hearts and souls. At such moments, our hearts are at rest, and we can hear God even when He whispers in a still, small voice. God does not bestow His supernatural power on people who cannot tarry long in His presence.
