Bible Question: do you have to fasten to be accepted into the gates of heaven |
Bible Answer: I don't think it's required to fast to make it to Heaven but it probably would be a good idea. It seems too many of us (me included), especially here in America spend too much time at the table and don't do enough "push aways." I'm hearing and seeing signs of obesity all around me, including us christians. So I'm thinking Jesus' Words sounds like pretty good advice from... Matt 6:16 “Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 17 But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Fasting was a big custom in that part of the world at that time and it does serve a good purpose, helping us to focus our minds on a particular issue or difficult problem in our life. During a fast, a person would be motivated to study God's Word and pray to Him for enlightenment about that issue/problem. And the great side benefit would be the self-discipline gained instead of eating to excess. But again, I don't see any scriptures requiring this practice to get to Heaven. But I could be mistaken. Hope this helps; Go with God in all His Ways, Bill |