Fasting means going without something that is important to you. Why do people fast? People may fast to humble themselves, to ask for forgiveness or to focus on God.

There is no required amount of time for fasting. A fast can last an hour, a few days or several weeks. Fasting in the Bible usually meant giving up food, but you can fast from other things, too. For example, you can give up TV, movies, video games or anything you like to do. Fasting from your favourite activity shows that you are willing to keep God first in your life.

Jesus talked about fasting in our Bible Reading today. He said that it is important when we fast to honour God, not to get attention from other people. Verses 17-18a tell us, “So when you fast, make yourself look nice. Wash your face. Then people will not know that you are fasting. But your Father that you cannot see will see you.”

Should you fast? The decision is up to you. Talk to God about it, and let Him lead you. —GT

Joel 2:12 “This is the Lord’s message: ‘Now come back to me with all your heart. You did bad things, cry, cry and don’t eat any food!’” 

PRAYER: Lord, show me how I can be closer to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.