January 26, 2026
At my home church, a simple but powerful rhythm has been established: on the first Monday of every month, we intentionally set aside time to fast and pray. We bring before God what is happening in our own lives, as well as what is unfolding within our wider church community.
This practice has been faithfully followed for many years. Recently, however, I found myself pausing to reflect more deeply on why we fast as the people of God. Why do we continue to make space for this discipline in a world that often views it as unnecessary – or even foolish?
What culture may dismiss, Scripture declares essential.
Perhaps you began the year grounded in focused prayer and fasting, seeking the heart of the Father for your life, family, or community. Or perhaps fasting feels unfamiliar, uncomfortable, or unclear in its purpose. Wherever you find yourself, let’s take a moment to explore the nature of fasting and uncover why it holds such a significant place in the Christian walk.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
“Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
Matthew 4:4 (NIV)
Fasting is not about impressing God or striving for spiritual approval. Rather, it is about realigning our hearts to hear Him more clearly. By intentionally laying aside physical comforts, we quiet the noise of distraction and remind ourselves that our deepest nourishment comes from God alone.
Fasting creates space for humility, dependence, and renewed intimacy with the Lord. As followers of Jesus, there will be moments when we need His voice and direction with clarity. Fasting tunes our spiritual ears, heightens our sensitivity to His leading, and positions us to respond in obedience when He speaks.
“One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.’ So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.”
Acts 13:2–3 (NLT)
Throughout Scripture, fasting and prayer are deeply intertwined. Fasting sharpens our prayers, drawing our focus away from ourselves and toward the presence of God. It heightens spiritual awareness and strengthens discernment, helping us recognise God’s voice and respond to His direction.
When we fast, prayer moves beyond spoken words into a posture of surrender. Our desires are submitted to God’s will, allowing His purposes to take precedence over our own.
“Then he said to the crowd, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross daily, and follow me.’”
Luke 9:23 (NLT)
Fasting is a practical expression of self-denial – an essential aspect of following Jesus. It trains us to say no to the flesh so we can say yes to the Spirit. Over time, this discipline produces spiritual maturity, strengthens our faith in seasons of testing, and deepens our trust in God rather than in our own strength.
Laying down our will for God’s is rarely easy, especially when His ways don’t immediately make sense to us. Yet fasting and prayer gently remind us of a vital truth: we are the creation, and He is the Creator. His will is always wiser, kinder, and better than our own – even when we don’t yet understand it.
In fasting, we don’t lose anything of value. Instead, we gain clearer vision, deeper dependence, and a closer walk with the God who lovingly leads us.
January 26, 2026
