Does fasting feel like a spiritual minefield? One wrong step, and suddenly you’re teetering between honoring God and falling into a spiral of food rules and guilt. The tension between what Scripture says about fasting and the fear of it becoming another form of restriction is real. Let’s break it down together—because fasting, when approached biblically, is about aligning your heart with God, not depriving yourself to prove your holiness.

Ready to dig in? Let’s spill the tea (or coffee, because #priorities ☕).

What Does the Bible Really Say About Fasting?

First, let’s clear the air: fasting isn’t a Christianized detox plan (Whew! Glad we got that out of the way). Fasting, as shown in Scripture, is not about punishing your body or fitting into a smaller pair of jeans—it’s about spiritual connection and dependence on God.

✝️In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus teaches:

"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting... But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen."

Translation? Fasting is a private spiritual practice—not a badge of honor to flaunt. It’s meant to draw us closer to God, not spotlight our "discipline" or "willpower".

Fasting vs. Self-Deprivation

Let’s tackle a common misconception: fasting ≠ self-deprivation. It’s easy to conflate the two, especially if you’re used to labeling foods as “good” or “bad” (hello, diet culture 👋). But Scripture paints a different picture.

Self-deprivation is rooted in pride—an attempt to prove you can “handle it” or be “better” by denying yourself something you desire. This can quickly lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, exercise, or even your body.

Fasting, on the other hand, is about humility and surrender. It’s less about what you’re giving up and more about who you’re leaning into. As Jesus demonstrated in Luke 4, fasting is an act of spiritual alignment, not a way to punish or control the body.

Why Fasting Can Be Tricky When You’re Healing

As a Registered Dietitian, I see this all the time: Christian women hesitant to fast because of their history with disordered eating. And honestly? That caution is so valid.

Physiologically, fasting can mess with your brain and body. Ever heard of “hangry”? That’s your blood sugar talking. And when you’ve been stuck in cycles of restriction, fasting can feel like a dangerous flashback, even if your intentions are pure.

But here’s the good news: God isn’t grading your faith on your fasting resume. If fasting in its traditional form feels triggering, you’re not failing as a Christian. Period.

Biblical Examples of Fasting (and What They Teach Us)

Need some inspiration? Let’s take a look at a few biblical fasting moments—and why they matter for us today:

1. Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34)🗻

Moses fasted when he was chiseling out the Ten Commandments—a moment of incredible closeness with God. Both times, Moses was literally in God’s presence.

Lesson: Fasting isn’t about deprivation but about being with God in significant, sacred moments.

2. Queen Esther’s Fast (Esther 4)👑

Faced with a life-or-death situation for her people, Esther fasted for courage and wisdom before approaching the king.

Lesson: Fasting can be a way to seek God’s guidance and strength during overwhelming times.

3. The Early Church (Acts 13)⛪️

Before sending out Barnabas and Paul on their ministry, the early church fasted together.

Lesson: Fasting can prepare us for mission and ministry, helping us align with God’s plans.

How to Approach Fasting Without Falling Into Restriction

If fasting feels more like a threat than a spiritual practice, let’s reframe it:

1. Consider a Non-Food Fast 📵

Who says fasting has to mean skipping meals? You can fast from social media, TV, or anything else that distracts you from God. The heart of fasting isn’t food; it’s focus.

Pro Tip: Reflect on what occupies your mental space. Is it Instagram? Email? Chocolate chip cookies? Whatever pulls you away from God’s presence might be worth fasting from.

2. Focus on the Why, Not the What 🤔

Ask yourself:

• Am I fasting to draw closer to God?
• Or am I fasting to feel in control, prove my faith, or achieve something?

Fasting should always lead to spiritual clarity and growth—not guilt or shame.

3. Talk to God About It 🙏

Pray for guidance before fasting. If you feel uneasy, ask God to reveal an alternative way to connect with Him. Remember, fasting isn’t a one-size-fits-all command.

4. Seek Support 💖

If fasting feels like a slippery slope, lean into your community. Whether it’s your small group, a Christian counselor, or a trusted friend, share your concerns and ask for accountability.

When (and Why) It’s Okay Not to Fast

Let’s get this straight: you don’t need to fast to prove your faith. If fasting jeopardizes your mental or physical health, you have full permission to say no. God’s love for you doesn’t hinge on your ability to abstain from chocolate cake or coffee.

Ready to Cultivate a Joy-Filled Relationship with Food and Faith?

If fasting has felt like a minefield in the past, take a deep breath. There’s room for grace, growth, and even joy in your journey with God.

Want more guidance?

• Join our Facebook community: Connect with other women walking the same path to food freedom and faith (Facebook group).
• Subscribe toFaith-Filled Food Freedom for part two of this fasting conversation and more faith-filled insights!

Let's WrapThings Up!

Fasting is a beautiful, biblical practice—but it’s not a mandate to prove your worth or faith. When approached with a heart of humility and dependence on God, it can be a powerful tool for spiritual growth.

So, whether you’re fasting from food, social media, or your favorite Netflix series (bye-bye, binge-watching), remember this: God sees your heart, not your plate.

As always, may you be filled with joy and abound in hope. 💖