Quote Source – Jeff Hilles

A Biblical Christian worldview perspective – Humility is the primary reason God calls Christians to fast. Webster defines humility as, “freedom from pride or arrogance”.

And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. - Deuteronomy 8:3

However, there is a great deal more to His teaching on the subject.

God is looking for mankind to rely on Him rather than our own abilities. The sin of pride and arrogance is a part, but He is also reminding us that we should be depending on Him for all our needs. Finally, our hunger pains while fasting are a constant reminder to seek the Lord in all things, especially in time of hardship.

Fasting sets us apart from our regular routine and redirects our attention upward. Others eat breakfast, lunch and dinner as we abstain. So finally, fasting acts as a point of witnessing to those around us as an outward sign for seekers. If we act in humility we attract others toward God (Matthew 6:3). If we broadcast our hunger, we repel others due to our pride (Matthew 23:5).

“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. - Matthew 6:16-18

Finally, fasting offers the believer a reminder that life on this earth is to be full of joy, but not always happiness. Joy in our relationship with God, but not always happiness as we experience the emptyness of hunger.

Author – Jeff Hilles | BCWorldview.org 

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