“When you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen.”Matthew 6:17–18

Fasting 101

A safe, simple, biblical guide to fasting, starting with whether a food fast is right for you at all.

Jesus said “when you fast,” not “if.” Fasting is setting aside something good, usually food, for a time, to give your attention to God. It isn’t a diet, a hunger strike to twist God’s arm, or a way to earn His favor. It’s a way of saying with your whole body: “I need You more than this.” Start with the safety check. Some people should never fast from food, and there are other powerful ways to fast.