CROSSWAY CHURCH - PHOENIX, ARIZONA

Fasting & Consecration:
Understanding the Importance
of Setting Ourselves Apart

What Is Fasting?

Fasting is a spiritual discipline where a person voluntarily abstains from food, drink, or other activities to seek God with greater focus.
It is not just about denying the body but about feeding the spirit.

Biblical Basis of Fasting:

Jesus Expected It
"When you fast..." (Matthew 6:16-18)

It Prepares Us for God’s Purpose
Jesus fasted before His ministry, Matthew 4:1-2
Moses before receiving the law, Exodus 34:28
Esther before interceding for her people, Esther 4:16
It Brings Breakthrough
"This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting."
(Matthew 17:21, Mark 9:29)

It Helps Us Seek God’s Will
Daniel fasted for understanding, Daniel 10:2-3;
Ezra fasted for guidance, Ezra 8:21-23

The Connection Between Fasting & Consecration

Fasting is not just about what we give up—it’s about what we set ourselves apart for. This is where consecration comes in.  To be consecrated means to be set apart for God’s purposes (Romans 12:1-2, 2 Timothy 2:21). While we may not fast food every day, we can consecrate our lives by removing distractions, focusing on holiness, and preparing ourselves spiritually.
As we step into this a season of concecration, we need to understand that fasting is just one part of it. Even if we cannot fast from food the whole time, we can fast from things that compete for our attention, such as social media, entertainment, or unnecessary distractions.

Types of Fasts in Scripture

Each type of fast has biblical precedent, showing that fasting is not just about food but about removing anything that interferes with our devotion to God.

1. Absolute Fast
(No Food or Water)

This type of fast is rare and should only be done under God’s direct leading. It is extreme and not for long periods.
  • Examples in Scripture:
    • Moses fasted for 40 days before receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28).
    • Esther and the Jews fasted for three days before her appeal to the king (Esther 4:16).
    • Paul fasted for three days after his encounter with Jesus (Acts 9:9).

2. Normal Fast
(No Food, Only Water)

This is the most common type of biblical fast, where a person refrains from eating but drinks water.
  • Examples in Scripture:
    • Jesus fasted for 40 days before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:2).
    • Elijah fasted for 40 days when fleeing Jezebel (1 Kings 19:8).

3. Partial Fast
(Restricting Certain Foods or Meals)

In this fast, people eat but avoid certain foods.
  • Examples in Scripture:
    • Daniel and his companions avoided rich foods, eating only vegetables and drinking water (Daniel 1:12-16).
    • Daniel later fasted from meats, wine, and delicacies for 21 days (Daniel 10:2-3).

4. Intermittent Fast
(Fasting for Part of the Day)

In this fast, people eat only at certain times, abstaining for parts of the day.
  • Examples in Scripture:
    • The Jews often fasted from morning until evening during times of repentance or seeking God (Judges 20:26, 2 Samuel 1:12).

5. Soul Fast
(Abstaining from Non-Food Distractions)

Some argue that fasting only applies to food, but Scripture shows that God calls His people to fast from things that hinder their relationship with Him—not just food.
  • Biblical Principles for Soul Fasting:
    • Isaiah 58:6-7 – God defines fasting as not just food-related but removing distractions and worldly influences to help us focus on Him.
    • 1 Corinthians 7:5 – Paul instructs married couples to fast from intimacy for a time so they can focus on prayer, showing that fasting applies beyond food.
    • Hebrews 12:1 – We are told to “lay aside every weight” that hinders us, meaning anything that takes our focus off God.
    • Romans 12:2 – We are called to renew our minds and separate from worldly distractions.
    • Psalm 101:3 – "I will set no wicked thing before my eyes." A reminder that we should be mindful of what we consume with our eyes and ears.
A soul fast may include:
  • Social Media – Avoiding distractions from Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.
  • Television & Streaming – Reducing or eliminating shows and movies.
  • Secular Music – Filling our minds with worship instead of worldly messages.
  • Negative Speech & Gossip – Fasting from complaining, criticism, or arguments.

Why is Fasting Needed in Certain Seasons?

Some seasons require a greater level of spiritual focus and preparation. The Bible shows us that fasting was often tied to:
Breakthrough
Some battles require fasting and prayer
(Mark 9:29).

Seeking Direction
 When major decisions were needed, fasting helped clarify God's will
(Ezra 8:21, Acts 13:2-3).

Spiritual Renewal
Fasting revives our spiritual hunger and sharpens our sensitivity to God (Nehemiah 9:1-3).

As you enter this season of consecration, ask yourself:
What is competing for my focus on God?
What am I willing to lay down to draw closer to Him?
How can I be intentional in setting myself apart?

What If I Mess Up?

If you accidentally break your fast, don’t let guilt stop you from continuing!
Repent and Refocus
Acknowledge it, ask God for strength, and keep going.

Don’t Quit
A single slip does not cancel the entire fast.

Remember the Purpose
This is about seeking God, not perfection.

Rememeber
Fasting is a journey, not a performance. God sees your heart and your desire to grow in Him. He will honor your sacrifice and strengthen you as you remain faithful.

“But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” 
Matthew 6:17-18