Saturday, February 27th

An Uncommon Discipline

Psalm 35:13 - Written by Doug Smith

“… I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting.”  Psalm 35:13

Located on Sharptown’s website under the resources tab is a link titled, ‘Top 10 Biblical   Purposes for Fasting.’ This resource was created as a supplement for a sermon series   in 2012 as we studied the Old Testament book and life of Daniel and is worth reviewing today.  Check it out at Sharptown.org

During Lent, followers around the world seek to mimic the dietary practice and actions of Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11) and to fast. The Bible lists several reasons:

  • Strengthen Prayer
  • Seek God’s Guidance
  • Expression of grief
  • Seek Deliverance and Protection
  • Express Repentance
  • Engage in Humility
  • Express Concern for the Work of God
  • Minister to the needs of Others
  • Overcome Temptation
  • Expression of Love and Worship


Fasting is always purposeful. It is a time when followers are invited to deliberately to give up some comfort and adopt some spiritual practice which leads to self-examination and repentance from sin. The anticipated result is an anticipation of greater dedication and discipleship toward Jesus Christ.

Have you ever participated in a fast?

 

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