Check Out This Simple Guide To 21-Days Of Fasting & Prayer
Introduction
So you’re interested in fasting? Maybe you’re brand new to prayer & fasting, or maybe you’re a seasoned veteran.
Regardless of where you’re at on the journey, this 21 days of prayer & fasting guide was created to help you understand how the spiritual discipline of prayer and fasting can help you grow closer to God and experience breakthrough in critical areas of your life.
Why do Christians fast?
In Matthew 6:16, Jesus looks tells His followers, “When you fast” and proceeds to give specific instructions about how they are to fast and pray. It’s interesting that Jesus didn’t say ‘if’ you fast, He said ‘when’ you fast. This tells us that Jesus assumed His followers were going to fast. This means fasting is a spiritual discipline that every Christian must devote themselves to.
All throughout The Bible, God’s people consistently took time to fast and pray in order to grow closer to God and experience breakthroughs in specific areas. If you are wanting to deepen your relationship with God or see Him move supernaturally in a specific area, this is a great time to fast and pray.
What is fasting?
Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that aligns our hearts more closely with the heart of God and also empowers us to see breakthroughs in specific areas. Fasting is when we go without food (or specific types of food) for a period of time and instead direct our attention more fully to God. It helps us as believers to not be ruled by our physical desires but to grow in spiritual power and authority over the desires of our flesh.
Introduction
So you’re interested in fasting? Maybe you’re brand new to prayer & fasting, or maybe you’re a seasoned veteran.
Regardless of where you’re at on the journey, this 21 days of prayer & fasting guide was created to help you understand how the spiritual discipline of prayer and fasting can help you grow closer to God and experience breakthrough in critical areas of your life.
Why do Christians fast?
In Matthew 6:16, Jesus looks tells His followers, “When you fast” and proceeds to give specific instructions about how they are to fast and pray. It’s interesting that Jesus didn’t say ‘if’ you fast, He said ‘when’ you fast. This tells us that Jesus assumed His followers were going to fast. This means fasting is a spiritual discipline that every Christian must devote themselves to.
All throughout The Bible, God’s people consistently took time to fast and pray in order to grow closer to God and experience breakthroughs in specific areas. If you are wanting to deepen your relationship with God or see Him move supernaturally in a specific area, this is a great time to fast and pray.
What is fasting?
Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that aligns our hearts more closely with the heart of God and also empowers us to see breakthroughs in specific areas. Fasting is when we go without food (or specific types of food) for a period of time and instead direct our attention more fully to God. It helps us as believers to not be ruled by our physical desires but to grow in spiritual power and authority over the desires of our flesh.
How do I fast?
When you decide to fast, the first thing to do is make a plan. Start by choosing the amount of time and the type of fast you are going to do. Fasting can take place for any specific amount of time and can include a complete fast, partial fast, or selective fast (ex. Daniel Fast). More information on specific timeframes and types of fasts has been listed below in this 21-day fasting guide.
It’s important to note that fasting without prayer is simply not eating. Remember that the goal is to not eat (or only eat specific types of food) for a time so that you can redirect your focus, energy, and attention toward God. The goal is to replace consuming food with time reading God’s Word and in prayer.
How long should I fast?
You can fast for any specific period of time you would like. Examples of common fasts are the one-day fast, three-day fast, 7-day fast, 21-day fast, and 40-day fast. That said, you can pick any specific amount of time as the Holy Spirit leads you. For those who have more experience with fasting, you may want to challenge yourself for a longer time or with a more challenging fast (ex. water only). For those who are new to fasting, you may want to start small and work your way up.
Types of fasts
There are a wide variety of types of fasts, which we’ve simplified into three main categories:
*As a side note, please be wise when it comes to fasting. If you have struggled with an eating disorder or serious medical condition in the past, please consult with a medical professional in advance of fasting.
When you decide to fast, the first thing to do is make a plan. Start by choosing the amount of time and the type of fast you are going to do. Fasting can take place for any specific amount of time and can include a complete fast, partial fast, or selective fast (ex. Daniel Fast). More information on specific timeframes and types of fasts has been listed below in this 21-day fasting guide.
It’s important to note that fasting without prayer is simply not eating. Remember that the goal is to not eat (or only eat specific types of food) for a time so that you can redirect your focus, energy, and attention toward God. The goal is to replace consuming food with time reading God’s Word and in prayer.
How long should I fast?
You can fast for any specific period of time you would like. Examples of common fasts are the one-day fast, three-day fast, 7-day fast, 21-day fast, and 40-day fast. That said, you can pick any specific amount of time as the Holy Spirit leads you. For those who have more experience with fasting, you may want to challenge yourself for a longer time or with a more challenging fast (ex. water only). For those who are new to fasting, you may want to start small and work your way up.
Types of fasts
There are a wide variety of types of fasts, which we’ve simplified into three main categories:
- Complete Fast
Also known as a full fast, a complete fast is when you do not eat any food (and consume liquids only) for a specific period of time. Please consult a medical professional in advance if you intend to do a complete fast for a prolonged period of time. - Partial Fast
A partial fast is when you fast all food for a set specific time throughout the day. For example, you may decide to fast from sunrise to sunset and eat food only in the evenings. - Selective Fast (ex. The ‘Daniel Diet’ or ‘Daniel Fast’)
A selective fast is when you fast only specific types of foods. The most popular selective fast is known as the Daniel Fast (more details below). - Other Things to 'Fast'
Specifically, and from a Biblical perspective, true 'fasting' is giving up food, even if its a meal or a snack, and then spending that time in more focused study and prayer. However, we do not believe in legalism or in doing anything that could put your health in jeopardy. God, we believe, honors or honest efforts to draw close to Him. If food is not an option, or if you want to go beyond just food seeking greater freedom and clarity, prayerfully consider what to include here.
*As a side note, please be wise when it comes to fasting. If you have struggled with an eating disorder or serious medical condition in the past, please consult with a medical professional in advance of fasting.
What about fasting social media or other activities?
The Bible does encourage us to abstain from specific activities for periods of time to devote ourselves more fully to God (ex. 1 Corinthians 7:5). However, fasting in Scripture specifically refers to food. So while choosing to abstain from specific things (ex. social media, TV, etc.) can be helpful, the Bible does not use the word fasting to describe this.
Abstaining from certain activities to grow closer to God is great, and we would actively encourage you to do this, but why not fast and also choose to abstain from one or more specific activities during the period of time you are fasting? It is something to consider, as discipline (a word we don't like much in Wester Society) is a key part of fasting.
That being said, Biblical Cultures did not contend with modern technology and issues like screen addiction and constant online connections, so the concept of Abstaining from other things has become a common practice, especially for those with medical conditions or needs, where going without food could be detrimental to their health. Many people have had powerful breakthroughs giving up social media, or even all media except what is required for their worktime, for several days or weeks or even a full 21-days! Prayerfully consider if this might be an area to include in your fast as an addition to, or in place of, traditional fasting of food.
REMEMBER THOUGH: It's supposed to be a sacrifice, so 'giving up' screen time, game time, scrolling time, etc. 'while at work' when you aren't really able to use it anyway (or spend focused time in study and prayer) defeats the purpose! You want to give something important and meaningful up to instead focus in on your time with God and in prayer!
The Bible does encourage us to abstain from specific activities for periods of time to devote ourselves more fully to God (ex. 1 Corinthians 7:5). However, fasting in Scripture specifically refers to food. So while choosing to abstain from specific things (ex. social media, TV, etc.) can be helpful, the Bible does not use the word fasting to describe this.
Abstaining from certain activities to grow closer to God is great, and we would actively encourage you to do this, but why not fast and also choose to abstain from one or more specific activities during the period of time you are fasting? It is something to consider, as discipline (a word we don't like much in Wester Society) is a key part of fasting.
That being said, Biblical Cultures did not contend with modern technology and issues like screen addiction and constant online connections, so the concept of Abstaining from other things has become a common practice, especially for those with medical conditions or needs, where going without food could be detrimental to their health. Many people have had powerful breakthroughs giving up social media, or even all media except what is required for their worktime, for several days or weeks or even a full 21-days! Prayerfully consider if this might be an area to include in your fast as an addition to, or in place of, traditional fasting of food.
REMEMBER THOUGH: It's supposed to be a sacrifice, so 'giving up' screen time, game time, scrolling time, etc. 'while at work' when you aren't really able to use it anyway (or spend focused time in study and prayer) defeats the purpose! You want to give something important and meaningful up to instead focus in on your time with God and in prayer!
May this season of fasting be one where you experience God’s closeness, His power, and His peace like never before.
The Physical Side of Fasting:
Practical Insights
Fasting is not just a spiritual practice; it also aligns with how God designed our bodies to thrive. This harmony between spiritual and physical renewal reminds us of God’s intricate and intentional creation. Here are some benefits and practical tips for navigating the physical side of fasting:
The Physical Benefits of Fasting
Special Notes Before Starting
Who Should Avoid Fasting?
Starting Your Fast
Tips for Breaking Your Fast
What If You Don’t Feel Well?
Fasting is a powerful practice that combines spiritual growth with physical renewal. Approach it with care and intentionality, trusting God’s design and guidance every step of the way
Encouragement for Your Journey
You can do this!
If you are new to fasting, please remember that this is a spiritual discipline that you can grow in over time. We encourage you to start small (ex., a 1-day fast or Daniel Fast) and then work your way up. Ask God what He wants you to fast, and for how long, over this next season, and step out in faith.
Be sure to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 am for service, 9:45 am for pre service prayer, and for our special 21-Days of Prayer events and video devotionals, here on our Media Tab or in the Right Now Media App under our curated media section!
Below are some resources to assist you in this journey, including the 21-Day PDF Prayer Guide, which we have physical copies of in service for regular attenders. We want to make your prayer and fasting time as meaningful and powerful as possible!
RESOURCES:
Practical Insights
Fasting is not just a spiritual practice; it also aligns with how God designed our bodies to thrive. This harmony between spiritual and physical renewal reminds us of God’s intricate and intentional creation. Here are some benefits and practical tips for navigating the physical side of fasting:
The Physical Benefits of Fasting
- Mental Clarity: Fasting can enhance focus and reduce stress in the brain
- Cellular Healing: A process called autophagy helps your body remove damaged cells and regenerate healthier ones
- Hormonal Balance: Fasting reduces cortisol levels, helping manage stress
- Detoxification: It supports liver function and reduces toxin levels, symbolizing spiritual and physical purification
- Lower Inflammation: Improved immune function and reduced risks of chronic illnesses
- Heart Health: Fasting lowers blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart disease risks
- Energy Boost: It promotes efficient energy use, allowing you to live more vibrantly
Special Notes Before Starting
- Fasting is not about enduring the longest period without food but surrendering cravings to God and seeking His strength
- Listen to your body as it’s a temple of the Holy Spirit. Seek medical advice if needed, especially if experiencing dizziness, fatigue, or other severe symptoms
- Modify your fast based on your health. The goal is to connect with God, not achieve a perfect fast
- Drink plenty of water and replenish electrolytes with natural options like sea salt or LMNT
Who Should Avoid Fasting?
- Pregnant women and those with serious medical conditions (consult a healthcare provider if unsure)
Starting Your Fast
- Gradually decrease carbohydrates and increase healthy fats and proteins in the days leading up to your fast
- If you’re new to fasting, start with shorter durations and gradually build up
Tips for Breaking Your Fast
- Reintroduce foods carefully, starting with light options like broths or steamed vegetables before heavier meals
- Focus on foods that honor the purity and care your body has experienced during the fast
- The longer the fast, the longer you should take re-introducing foods. Examples to try in order include:
- Bone broth, veggie broth, green juice- no added sugars (bone broth has glycine for gut repair)
- Pre/probiotic foods (fermented foods like Greek yogurt, kombucha, keifer)
- Steamed veggies
- Protein (grass-fed, organic)
What If You Don’t Feel Well?
- Hunger is normal, but symptoms like dizziness or heart palpitations are signs to stop. Break your fast in prayer and consult a professional if needed
- Ensure hydration and replenish minerals for balance
Fasting is a powerful practice that combines spiritual growth with physical renewal. Approach it with care and intentionality, trusting God’s design and guidance every step of the way
Encouragement for Your Journey
- Define your purpose for fasting- Why are you fasting in this season? What spiritual growth or breakthrough are you seeking?
- Focus on spending time with God through prayer, worship, and Scripture- Let this be a time to deepen your relationship with Him
- Trust that God sees your effort and obedience- While answers may not always come immediately, know that He is working on your behalf
You can do this!
If you are new to fasting, please remember that this is a spiritual discipline that you can grow in over time. We encourage you to start small (ex., a 1-day fast or Daniel Fast) and then work your way up. Ask God what He wants you to fast, and for how long, over this next season, and step out in faith.
Be sure to join us on Sunday Mornings at 10:30 am for service, 9:45 am for pre service prayer, and for our special 21-Days of Prayer events and video devotionals, here on our Media Tab or in the Right Now Media App under our curated media section!
Below are some resources to assist you in this journey, including the 21-Day PDF Prayer Guide, which we have physical copies of in service for regular attenders. We want to make your prayer and fasting time as meaningful and powerful as possible!
RESOURCES:
