FASTING IIII

Roz and I have done various kind of fasting through the years as a discipline. The most common was three day fasts with only water, some seven day fasts with only water and once a forty day fast with only water. We learn many things about ourselves when fasting and sometimes even learn something about the Lord.

Now my most desirable fast is the Jesus Fast of Solitude and Silence away from noise “in the wilderness or deserted places” just to listen. The same silence has also become my favorite type of worship.

In the past we enjoyed Silent Prayer Retreats with various groups of people. Some retreats included fasting and some did not. They are all to fast from noise. They were usually held in a quiet place where we could sit and relax together doing nothing but listening for the voice of the Lord. As we listened we would journal what we were hearing. Then periodically we would compare what we had journaled. We concluded by praying about what we heard in our time together. Learning to hear the voice of the Lord is one of the richest things I have ever done.

All fasting has it’s purpose but if we do not hear the voice of the Lord while fasting it seems of little benefit other than losing a pound or two. The Jesus Fast of Solitude and Silence is what fits me.

“But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private.” Jesus