Before you begin fasting, please take a minute to read this guide: riovistachurch.com/fasting. Prayerfully consider what it is that the Lord would call you to fast from during this season. It should be enough of an imposition that it is a constant or at least daily reminder.

Also, consider what you will do in place of that thing from which you fast. How will you engage in repentance and trust in God’s provision each time the absence of that thing burdens you?

• If fasting from food, spend time engaging more deeply in your personal worship when you would normally sit down to eat a meal.
• If fasting from media, when you would normally listen to talk radio in the car, pray instead. Read a book about discipleship, spiritual disciplines, or any other biblical topic that interests you when you otherwise would have turned on the TV.
• If something material or behavioral has more hold on you than it should, perhaps you can think of a way to address this with a fast. Deny yourself that thing you desire and instead, serve your neighbor with a meal or other simple blessing.

Remember that the point of this is not primarily self-improvement, nor is it an occasion to display to God or others the heights of your piety. In fact, nothing could be more contrary to the purpose of a fast. The point of a fast is to worship the One who emptied Himself on your behalf. Whenever possible, keep the details of your fast a secret between you and the Lord (and perhaps your spouse, so you’re better able to encourage one another), and pray daily that the Lord would supply the grace that is needed to keep your motives pure.