Can I fast fast?

The Spiritual and Physical Benefits of Fasting: A Biblical Perspective

Short answer, no.  Fasting is a process that holds immense spiritual significance within Christianity and has been a key part of Yom Kippur.  I want to encourage us to fast this Sunday during the Day of Atonement.  In the Bible, fasting is mentioned and practiced by many individuals seeking spiritual growth, discipline, and a deeper connection with God.  In fact, Jesus says, when you fast... Not if you fast. It seems to me that it is an expectation.  There are many types of fasting. Typically, it is from food. It can be complete abstaining or a vegetable fast like Daniel did.  But it should be something that is a sacrifice.  Beyond the spiritual benefits, fasting can also have positive effects on one's physical well-being.  There's this thing called Autophagy.  Self eating in greek!  It's where during fast of at least 24 hours your body begins to consume the old injured and dying cells and rebuilds new ones.  It's super helpful for the body.  I think it is a spiritual principle because for most of human history we had no clue at the science so God built it into gaining spiritual sensitivity.  Here are the key spiritual benefits of fasting:
  1. Spiritual Discipline and Self-Control:
    •  1 Corinthians 9:27 (ESV) - "But I discipline my body and keep it under control..."
  2. Drawing Near to God:
    •  James 4:8 (ESV) - "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you..."
  3. Increased Spiritual Sensitivity:
    •  Matthew 4:2 (ESV) - "And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry."
  4. Seeking God’s Will and Direction:
    •  Acts 13:2-3 (ESV) - "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting,

Here is a great article on fasting, how to do it, why to do it and how to make it easier.  Pro tip:  drink loads of water with salt in it.  It will help.  I'm going to do a little longer as all the really best benefits happen around the 36 hour mark.  
What Is Biblical Fasting, and How Does It Work?

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