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NASB | Nehemiah 1:4 ¶ When I heard these words, I sat down and wept and mourned for days; and I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Nehemiah 1:4 ¶ Now it came about when I heard these words, I sat down and wept and mourned for days; and I was fasting and praying [constantly] before the God of heaven. |
Bible Question: What is the spiritual significance of fasting? How often do Christians fast? What role does fasting play in a Christian's spiritual walk? |
Bible Answer: This is an excellant question, one which I think the real answer just does not jump out at you from any one verse. However, Matthew 17:21 has the key to fastings purpose. I believe thet you will see pure fasting is when one has all their attention devoted to a piticular prayer request, and their attention is so focused that eating would be a distraction. The attitude of completly praying woth no interference is very difficult for me, and perhaps for most, I think. Please check this out as this only my thoughts, I believe fasting is always accompanied with prayer. Jesus said that the religous leaders fasted so others could see their "suffering for GOD" , which was not at all what our Father desires. Ever notice that many fasting people have to tell others they are fasting? Scripture says not to let it show on our faces that we are fasting. I personally do not fast not only for medical reasons, but perhaps my spiritual growth or learning has not gotten to that point. I believe fasting allows for drinking of water and juice or tea, coffee. Friend, perhaps more than "fasting" I find to develope a prayer relationship with the Father, a very awesome and at times difficult "act of faith". Prayer does not come automatic to me. I have to be settled down, and confess my sins, then I give adoration to my Father, the thanksgiving, and suplications(meaning prayer requests. So I use CATS for my personal prayer life. Be strong in the LORD friend, and faithfull in prayer. I hope my sharing helps in some small way. from farout@onemain.com |