The Role of Fasting in Growing Closer to God (Drawing closer to God)

 
Drawing Closer to God Series

Fasting is more than just going without food. At its core, biblical fasting is about making space emptying ourselves so we can be filled more deeply with God. It’s a spiritual discipline practiced by many throughout Scripture, not to twist God’s arm, but to tune our hearts to His.

In a world filled with distractions, fasting reminds us of what matters most: intimacy with God.

“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father… and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
— Matthew 6:16–18 (NIV)

Let’s explore how fasting helps us draw closer to God, why it still matters today, and how you can begin.

1. Fasting Is a Biblical Way to Pursue God

Fasting appears throughout Scripture as a powerful act of surrender and devotion:

• Moses fasted before receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28).

• Esther called for a fast before approaching the king (Esther 4:16).

• Jesus fasted for 40 days before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:2).

• The early church fasted before sending out missionaries (Acts 13:2–3).

These weren’t just rituals. Each fast reflected a hunger—not just for change in circumstances, but for a deeper connection with God.

2. Fasting Helps Quiet the Noise

Fasting helps you press pause on physical desires to give greater attention to spiritual needs. Whether you're fasting from food, media, social media, or something else that consumes time or focus, it helps break attachments and reorient your heart.

When you remove the noise, you're better able to hear God’s voice.

“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” — Matthew 4:4

Fasting creates space to be still before the Lord, to hear His whispers, and to align your desires with His.

3. Fasting Reveals What’s Truly in Our Hearts

Fasting has a way of surfacing what lies beneath the surface. When we strip away comforts, distractions, or dependencies, we begin to see the spiritual clutter we’ve been carrying pride, fear, unforgiveness, or misplaced priorities.

This is a gift. It invites us to bring those things to God, repent, and experience His transforming grace.

“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”
— Joel 2:12

4. Fasting Fuels Intercession and Breakthrough

Fasting is often linked to powerful moments of prayer and breakthrough. It deepens our sense of urgency, sharpens our spiritual discernment, and moves us to intercede on behalf of others.

When paired with prayer, fasting becomes a tool for spiritual warfare bringing clarity, conviction, and power.

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice… to set the oppressed free…?”
— Isaiah 58:6

5. Fasting Draws Us into Humble Dependence

Fasting reminds us of our human frailty. It humbles us and leads us to depend on God more fully. We become more aware of our need for Him—His presence, wisdom, power, and grace.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” — James 4:10

In a culture that values independence and self-reliance, fasting is a bold act of humility and surrender.

6. Tips for Starting a Fasting Practice

If you’ve never fasted before, here are a few tips:

• Start small: Try skipping one meal or fasting for a few hours a day. Let your body and spirit adjust.

• Pair fasting with prayer and Scripture: Don’t just go without fill the space with spiritual nourishment.

• Be clear about your purpose: Ask God to show you what He wants to teach you or reveal during this time.

• Stay hydrated and care for your health: If you’re fasting from food, ensure it’s safe for your body and medical condition.

• Journal the journey: Write down what God reveals, what you’re learning, and any breakthroughs.

7. Fasting Is Not About Earning God’s Favor

Remember: fasting doesn’t make God love you more. It’s not a performance. It’s a posture. You’re not trying to earn something you’re choosing to seek Him more fully.

The goal of fasting is not just to abstain but to draw near. To hunger for God more than the things of this world. To discover joy in His presence, even when you feel weak.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” — Matthew 5:6

Final Thoughts

Fasting is a beautiful, sacred discipline that leads to deeper intimacy with God. In the quiet, in the hunger, in the stillness He speaks. He draws near. He strengthens.

If you’ve been feeling spiritually dry or distant, consider fasting not as a duty, but as an invitation to come closer. He is always worth the sacrifice.