What scripture says about fasting

Scripture doesn’t treat fasting as an "if," but as a "when." In Matthew 6:16, Jesus says, "And when you fast..."—assuming it would be a regular rhythm for his followers.

• Dependency: In the wilderness, Jesus quoted Deuteronomy, saying, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). Fasting proves this. It is a way of telling your body—and God—that He is more necessary for your survival than your next meal.

• The Heart of Fasting: Isaiah 58 reminds us that fasting isn't just about "not eating." It’s about "loosing the bonds of wickedness." If fasting doesn't lead to increased love for God and neighbor, it's just a hungry ego trip.

Dallas Willard: The Discipline of Abstinence

Dallas Willard, a teacher of spiritual formation, categorizes fasting as a Discipline of Abstinence. He teaches that our "selves" are often dominated by our desires.

• Breaking the Power of "I Want": Willard argues that we are often slaves to our bodily impulses. By saying "no" to a good thing (food), we develop the "spiritual muscle" to say "no" to bad things (sin).

• Creating Space: Willard famously said that disciplines are how we make our bodies a "temple." Fasting clears out the noise of consumption so we can be more attentive to the "still, small voice" of God. It provides the "quiet" necessary for the soul to speak.