There is a connection between the sabbath and fasting. For in observing sabbath one must both set aside what is “normal” and abstain from that which is good. It is good to both eat and work, this is why Paul connected them together in 2 Thess 3:10. Yet God prompts us at times, in seasons, and on specific days to rest or to fast, this setting aside is good for us.  

Mark 2:27 reminds us that the Sabbath was created for man, not the other way around. God gave man rest because he wanted to prompt faith. Yes, to sabbath is a deep work of faith that deconstructs our normal human view. “Work harder,” our mind compels us, “You don’t have time to rest!” So in choosing to sabbath we both come into agreement with God’s original plan, and act on the belief that as you rest, God will work for you. Sabbathing promotes a life of faith and deepens our dependency on our God. 

Fasting works in the same ways. We are spiritual beings with a physical body not physical beings with a spirit. Fasting reminds us of that fact, putting our Spirit back in charge of the way we act and what we do. Fasting is intended to help us consume spiritual food, focusing on the needs of our spirit man instead of the natural man. (1 Corinthians 2:14-15) Similarly, fasting is an act of faith, that in denying our natural desires God will accomplish something greater in us. Fasting, therefore, is not for God’s benefit or to increase our status with God, fasting is for us. 

Yielding Prayer

Father, I come to you now bearing the weight of work and responsibility as well as the heaviness of pursuing fleshly pleasure. I invite you to expose in me where my physical needs have taken priority over the spiritual in my life and teach me how to remedy that. I submit my way to you and welcome your instruction. I further commit to implementing the plans you have for me.

To read more about fasting, read my blog post “Growing Pains” by clicking here.