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.
"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.
