|
FASTING
In the Old Testament fasting was a common practice. The book of Leviticus lets us know that fasting was established by our God.
As it is written:
Leviticus 23:26-27
26 God spoke to Moses, saying,
27 Also, on the tenth day of this seventh month is the Day of Atonement. It shall be a sacred occasion for you: you shall practice self-denial, and you shall bring an offering by fire to God.
So, we see that fasting is self-denial, abstaining from eating food for a period of time for a reason, purpose.
There were many reasons why the Israelites fasted in the Old Testament. In the book of Isaiah, God is speaking on the fast that He desired for the Israelites. Including helping those that are in need.
As it is written:
Isaiah 58:6-9
6 ...This is the fast I desire: to unlock fetters of wickedness and untie the cords of the yoke to let the oppressed go free; to break off every yoke.
7 It is to share your bread with the hungry, and to take the wretched poor into your home; when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to ignore your own kin.
8 Then shall your light burst through like the dawn and your healing spring up quickly; your Vindicator shall march before you, the Presence of God shall be your rear guard.
9 Then, when you call, God will answer; when you cry, He will say: Here I am.
Jesus confirms in the Gospel of Mark, verse 29, what His Father had spoken through the Prophet Isaiah.
As it is written:
Mark 9:28-29
28 And when He had gone into the house, His disciples asked Him privately, why could we not cast him out?
29 And He said to them, this kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.
When we fast, abstain from eating food, we are taking the time to humble and present ourselves before our God with our request.
As it is written:
Matthew 6:17-18
17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face,
18 So that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
|