Fasting is hip - and what does it have to do with God?

Fasting is on everyone's lips. Whether it's intermittent fasting, detox cures or consciously giving up sugar - fasting has long since moved away from purely religious contexts and has become a social trend. People fast for health reasons, to improve their performance or to mentally realign themselves. But what is the difference between trend-oriented fasting and what the Bible teaches us about it? Is there more than just the physical benefits?

Fasting as a trend versus fasting as a spiritual principle

The main difference between fasting as a trend and fasting as a spiritual principle lies in the motivation and purpose:

Fasting as a trend:

• Often focuses on external aspects such as weight loss, detoxification or health promotion
• It is often celebrated publicly and shared on social media
• Serves short-term goals or follows fads such as “dry January” or “minimalism”
• Can be linked to the pursuit of recognition and social applause

Fasting as a spiritual principle:

• Aims at spiritual cleansing, repentance and closeness to God
• Should be practiced in silence, without public display
• Promotes self-discipline, reflection and concentration on the essentials in life
• Promotes willpower and helps to break bad habits
• It is often practiced as a communal religious experience within a larger spiritual context

Spiritual fasting requires a deeper inner discipline and humility, while trend-oriented fasting is often more superficial and focused on short-term effects. Religious fasting does not focus on personal gain, but on spiritual development and connection to God.

In Daniel 1:12-15, we read about a remarkable experiment. Daniel and his friends deliberately abstain from the king's food and eat only vegetables and water. After ten days, they are healthier and stronger than the other young men who ate the king's food. This example shows that fasting has not only spiritual but also physical effects. It not only strengthens the body, but also the mind and faith.

In addition, fasting teaches us to question our addictions and focus on what really matters. Fasting can help us to gain clarity, question bad habits and shape our lives more consciously - not only in terms of our health, but also spiritually.

Next Step: Fasting is more than a trend - it can be a doorway to a deeper spiritual experience. Go into prayer and ask the Holy Spirit if it's time for you to try it out for yourself.