Psalm 35:13

The world is full of distractions. Our phones, television, the web. The best way to deal with distraction is not just to restrict what you do, but rather to focus on what matters the most.

The practice of fasting is prevalent in the Scriptures. We see throughout the Bible this concept was practiced by kings, prophets, and all of God’s people to this day. As you fast, you’ll notice it will help increase your humility, your hunger, and your holiness as you are formed into the image of Christ.

Reading and praying the Psalms is a humble pilgrimage. The various authors, including King David, share their innermost thoughts and struggles in their relationships with others and the One True God. They doubt. They ask questions. They marvel. They believe. Don’t we do the same? Ancient writings? Yes. But relevant for each of us today. Each day’s study includes an option to pray through that day’s Psalm with grace-filled intentionality.

In Matthew 6:3, 5, and 17, our Lord Jesus Christ teaches on key Christian responsibilities and the proper way to approach them. He speaks about giving, prayer, and fasting, not as optional practices, but as expected expressions of the believer’s life. Notice His choice of words: “when” you give, “when” you pray, “when” you fast, not “if.” Therefore, we must come to understand that fasting is an integral part of our spiritual life, something to be embraced consistently as we grow in our relationship with God. Let us journey together in exploring this subject more deeply.