Prayer & Fasting: Unlocking Spiritual Power

I believe many Christians fail to tap into one of the most powerful and rewarding spiritual resources we have...fasting. Often, this is simply because they don’t know much about this important command for Christ’s followers.

This post will cover the what, why, how, and when of fasting, so you can put it into action in your life. Whether you’ve never fasted or want to deepen your understanding, this guide will give you the basics.

What is Fasting?

Biblical fasting is giving up specific foods and drinks for a set number of days. The type and length of your fast should be determined between you and God, not by what anyone else is doing.

At Shiloh Christian Ministry our congregation, along with ministry partners around the world, participates in a 21-day fast at the beginning of each year. We do this to give God our best and our first.

Fasting, prayer, and reading God’s Word go hand in hand. As you fast, pray for God’s purpose and plan for your life. Fast and pray about every major decision in your life.

Simply put, fasting is a way to conquer the physical and open the door to the supernatural. When you deny your body, you feed your spirit and grow closer to the Lord.

Why Fast?

In Matthew 6, Jesus gave clear instructions on how to live as His follower, addressing three key duties: Giving, Praying, and Fasting. He said, “When you give,” “when you pray,” “when you fast.”

Fasting, like giving and praying, is a normal part of Christian life.

When all three disciplines—giving, praying, and fasting—are active in your life, you release the full power of God. Jesus taught in Mark 4:80 that:

• Praying alone releases a thirty-fold return

• Praying and giving together releases a sixty-fold blessing

• Praying, giving, and fasting releases a hundred-fold return

How Do I Fast?

Before beginning, write down a plan and make a verbal commitment to the Lord. Approaching fasting with determination will help you persevere during challenging moments.

You may find fasting is not as daunting as you think. If it feels like a battle, don’t lose heart, God knows your weaknesses. His fasting principles are flexible, allowing you to maintain your responsibilities while still honoring Him.

If the traditional full fast has always intimidated you, there are actually many types of fasts. Choose the one that fits your needs. For example:

• On a 21-day fast, you might start with a full fast for 1–3 days, then continue with a Daniel Fast or other partial fast.

• Always consult your doctor and drink plenty of water.

Types of Fasts

Full Fast

• Drink only liquids—especially water.

• You may include clear broth or 100% fruit/vegetable juices to maintain strength.

• Establish the number of days for your fast in prayer, and consult your doctor.

Partial Fast

There are many options for partial fasts. Examples include:

• Daniel Fast: Found in Daniel 10:2–3. No meats, sweets, breads, or drinks except water. Focus on vegetables and fruits. Consult your doctor if you have medical concerns.

• Give up one item of food or drink, such as coffee, soda, or sweets.

• Fast for a specific number of days—one day, three days, etc.

• Fast for specific hours—e.g., 6 a.m.–3 p.m. or sun-up to sundown. Adjust for work and sleep schedules; sleep hours are not counted in the fasting period.

Corporate Fast

• A joint fast with other believers for a specific purpose.

• Powerful results can come from fasting with others while maintaining a personal connection with God.

• Examples:

  • Esther called all her people to fast for protection (Esther 4:16)

  • Samuel declared a fast for national revival (1 Samuel 7)

When Should You Fast?

To make fasting a way of life, plan for the year in advance:

• Fast one day a month or one meal a week

• Do a partial fast one week every other month

• Adapt to your lifestyle—there are countless options

Fasting is also appropriate during unexpected challenges like family struggles, financial problems, or any situation where you need God’s mercy and guidance.

Fasting is not just a discipline, it is a powerful spiritual tool that can transform your life, deepen your relationship with God, and release supernatural favor.

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Content by Jentezen Franklin