Note: Below is a plan to fast from food for increasing amounts of time this month. Fasting from food is the biblical norm for fasting and has great spiritual blessing in it, and, for most, is perfectly healthy physically. However, some may have physical or medical conditions that make fasting from food dangerous or impossible. If that is you, rather than fasting from food, instead fast from some other physical craving for a spiritual purpose. You could fast from technology, sex, or some other kind of regular enjoyment that would make you to enjoy Jesus more fully.

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Week 1 Fast for one meal

When it comes to fasting, it is best to learn to walk before you run. Begin the practice of fasting this week by skipping one meal (usually lunch one day is best). You can just drink water, or if you need to, drink fruit and/or vegetable juice. When your body and your brain remind you that you are hungry, spend some time in prayer. When you would normally eat lunch, instead take that time to pray and seek the Lord. Remember that man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.

Week 2 - Fast for 24 hours

This week, you can either continue to fast for one meal, or can begin fasting for 24 hours. This means you will skip 2 meals. Plan out your fast before hand. What spiritual purpose is the reason for your fast? How will you seek the Lord while you fast?

Week 3 - Fast again for 24 hours

Notice how your fasts have changed. What is different this time as compared to the first two times? Is it easier or harder? How is God speaking to you? Don’t forget to identify a spiritual purpose for your fasting.

Week 4 - Fast for 36 hours

You can continue a 24 hour fast, or move up to a 36 hour fast. This means you would skip 3 meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner one day, and then break your fast at breakfast the following day). What purpose does God have for you to fast? How does he speak to you differently throughout the day? Is your spiritual attention sharpened by the fast?