In essence, the purpose of fasting is to shift our focus away from the distractions of the world and fully center our hearts and minds on God. It’s not a method to manipulate or force God into answering our prayers, but rather a way of acknowledging our dependence on Him. Fasting reveals how often we are driven by our own desires and cravings. It humbles us and deepens our awareness of our need for God. As you consider fasting, we encourage you to listen to the Holy Spirit and seek God’s guidance during this time of drawing closer to Him. Whether you fast for one day, multiple days, or the full 21 days, the goal is to humble yourself in a fresh way and grow closer to God.

In Matthew 6:16-18 we see Jesus' teaching on fasting with the right heart.
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"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, anoint 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; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches that fasting should be a private, humble act of devotion, not a public display to gain attention or admiration from others. Jesus warns against fasting for the sake of gaining human praise. Fasting should be done with the right heart and solely for the purpose of drawing closer to God, not for public recognition.

Set Goals:
Clearly define why you are fasting and what you hope to achieve spiritually or personally. Define the specific spiritual goals for your fast. Are you seeking clarity, direction, healing, or intimacy with God? What is the purpose of your fast? Is it for spiritual renewal, guidance, healing, the resolution of challenges, or grace to navigate a tough situation? Write down your objectives to help keep your focus during the fast. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what He wants you to gain from this time. This will help you pray with greater focus and purpose.

Choose Your Fast Type:
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Complete - Water Only (Liquid Fast)
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Selective Fast - Plant-based Diet (excluding meat and dairy) also known as the Daniel Fast
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Partial Fast - Limit Specific Food Groups (meat, sweets, etc...)
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Soul Fast - Removing things in your life that do not interfere with any health concerns or other reasons.

Through fasting and prayer, we humble ourselves before God, inviting the Holy Spirit to stir our hearts, awaken our churches, and bring healing to our land, as described in 2 Chronicles 7:14. Make this a central focus in your time of fasting.

Dedicate significant time to prayer, Bible study, worship, and meditation during your fast.

Pray:
Begin by seeking God’s guidance on the purpose and duration of your fast. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you understand why you are fasting and what God wants to accomplish in your heart during this time.

Study Scripture:
Immerse yourself in God’s Word to strengthen your spirit. Reflect on passages related to fasting, prayer, humility, and God's promises. Let the Scriptures guide and encourage you as you prepare.

Let Go of Distractions:
Fasting is about creating space for God. Identify distractions in your life (such as social media, entertainment, or even work) and plan to reduce or remove them during your fast to focus more fully on God.

Meals + Groceries:
If doing a partial or Daniel fast, plan your meals around fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. using apps like Pinterest can be helpful to find recipes and dishes during your fast.

Pinterest Recipe's
Prepare Your Mind and Body:
If you're fasting from food, start adjusting your diet in advance to avoid shock to your system. If you're fasting from other activities, begin to shift your habits to ensure a smoother transition. Gradually reduce your food intake a few days before starting the fast to ease your body into the transition. 
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. 
If you experience severe hunger, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms, consult your doctor and consider breaking your fast.

Prepare yourself for temporary mental discomforts, such as impatience, crankiness and anxiety. Expect some physical discomforts, especially on the second day. You may have fleeting hunger pains or dizziness. Withdrawal from caffeine and sugar may cause headaches. Physical annoyances may also include weakness, tiredness or sleeplessness.

Limit your physical activity and exercise (Walking 1 - 3 miles per day)

Be intentional about the moments that would normally be filled with distractions and use those moments to focus on God. To gain the greatest spiritual benefit, dedicate plenty of time to be alone with the Lord. Pay attention to His guidance. The more time you spend in His presence, the deeper and more impactful your fast will be.

After completing your fast, reintroduce food slowly, starting with easily digestible options.

When your designated time for fasting is finished, you will begin to eat again. But how you break your fast is extremely important for your physical and spiritual well-being.Begin eating gradually. Do not eat solid foods immediately after your fast. Suddenly reintroducing solid food to your stomach and digestive tract will likely have negative, even dangerous, consequences. Try several smaller meals or snacks each day. If you end your fast gradually, the beneficial physical and spiritual effects will result in continued good health.

Fasting is a sincere act of humbling yourself before the Lord. It creates space for repentance, prayer, seeking God’s presence, and meditating on His Word. As you engage in this discipline, you will experience a deeper awareness of His presence (John 14:21).

During this time, God will reveal fresh spiritual insights. Your trust in Him will grow, and your faith will be strengthened. Mentally, spiritually, and physically, you will feel renewed, and you will see God’s answers to your prayers.However, a single fast is not a quick fix for all spiritual challenges. Just as we need daily fillings of the Holy Spirit, we also need recurring times of fasting. Many Christians find great benefit in committing to a regular practice, such as a 24-hour fast each week.

Building spiritual endurance through fasting takes time. If you don’t complete your first fast, don’t be discouraged. You may have set an overly ambitious goal, or perhaps your understanding and resolve need strengthening. When you're ready, try again—God will honor your faithfulness as you persist in seeking Him.