BFB-The Stretch Devotional & Guide 2026 - Flipbook - Page 4
FASTING | WHAT IS FASTING | WHY WE FAST
THE STRETCH
WHAT IS FASTING?
As we prepare to enter this season of fasting, it’s important to understand that
Scripture does not command Christians to fast. Yet throughout the Bible, fasting
consistently appears at pivotal moments in the lives of God’s people. When clarity
was needed, when hearts needed realignment, or when God’s direction was being
sought, people chose to fast as a way of humbling themselves before Him.
Throughout the Old Testament, fasting marked moments of urgency and
dependence on God. When His people faced uncertainty, danger, or the need for
direction, they humbled themselves and sought the Lord through prayer and
fasting (Ezra 8:21; 2 Chronicles 20:3). Fasting became a way of declaring, “God, we
cannot do this on our own.
In the New Testament, Jesus modeled this same posture. Before He began His
public ministry, He withdrew into the wilderness and fasted for forty days
(Matthew 4). That season of surrender prepared Him for what was ahead. Later, the
early church followed His example, combining prayer and fasting as they sought
wisdom, direction, and confirmation from God (Acts 13:2; 14:23).
Fasting is not about what we give up, but what we make room for. It is an
intentional act of surrender that quiets distractions and refocuses our hearts on
God. While many fast from food, others fast from things that compete for their
attention—social media, entertainment, habits, or routines. The purpose is the
same: to create space to hear God more clearly and walk more closely with Him.
As we step into this time together, may this fast become a sacred pause—a season
of renewal, clarity, and deeper dependence on God. May we quiet the noise around
us, turn from distractions, and turn fully toward the One who sustains, leads, and
renews us.
WHY WE FAST
Fasting is a weakening of the flesh & a strengthening of the spirit. Fasting is
effective because it simultaneously weakens the flesh and strengthens the spirit
when done correctly. Many people fail in fasting because they only focus on giving
something up, often the wrong thing, thinking it will weaken their flesh. However,
they neglect to strengthen their spirit during the fast. As a result, when the fast
ends, no progress is made-the flesh remains strong, and the spirit is unchanged.
Fasting should always have a directed goal you are trying to achieve for God. Some
reasons to fast: difficult decisions, major life changes, seeking to draw close to
God, hear God’s voice, and discern God’s will for your life, repenting from sin,
breaking strongholds, protection of God. Fasting without intent limits its power
and just leaves you hungry.
The Stretch embodies our commitment to faith, flexibility, and forward movement.
It is more than 30 days of dietary discipline. It is a time of spiritual stretching that
reorders our priorities and renews our hearts. So let us stretch our faith through
fasting and prayer. Stretch our capacity through obedience and generosity.
Stretch our reach through service and witness. Stretch our expectation for what
God will do next.
