Fasting Stories: Laura V
Interested in sharing your own fasting experience? Read this post for more info and get ready to share your story!
Why do you think fasting is important?
Fasting is not only a great way to reset and center the mind on the Lord, I have found it to be the best way to communicate with the Living God. He is aching to tell us what is on His heart for us.
Most of the time, I do all the talking and He patiently listens as I lament, confess, and request many things of Him. He rarely receives the time to respond because I am too rushed to get going to the next thing.
But when I fast, I slow down and give Him the floor to share His heart for me. I have found that fasting takes away the static, opening up a direct line to God and reigniting my relationship with Jesus.
Read More: 10 New Testament Fasting Scriptures
What does your personal fasting practice look like?
I typically do a 21 day Daniel fast to start the year, and then do a full water fast the first of every month following. Then I will sporadically do fasts throughout the year if I am in seasons of intensely seeking the Lord that usually includes giving up 1-2 meals per day.
What is your biggest challenge when it comes to fasting?
Focus! I have no problem with coming up with meal ideas (thanks in part to this blog), but I can find myself focusing too much on the food/what I am "giving up" and not on the reason that I am doing it. It can turn into a disciplined health journey instead of a spiritual one if I am not intentional with my mind.
Can you recall a time God gave you a breakthrough, revelation, or taught you something through fasting?
This year, the Lord has been putting His finger on something in my heart that has been a struggle for years - learning to wait on Him.
I am a busy person, and when I don't see the fruit of my prayers quickly, I often will become impatient, indifferent, or bitter. I can quickly forget the Lord's faithfulness in years past, focusing only on my disappointment that this one thing I am asking for has not yet happened.
I have felt a conviction in my spirit during this most recent fast that not only am I being prideful when I think like this, but I am actually inhibiting God from working effectually. He longs to be gracious to us!
What is your best advice for someone who is new to fasting?
Remember that the heart of fasting is running after the heart of the Father, not on how "perfectly" you follow the fasting rules. Don't allow yourself to fall into a legalistic mindset, beating yourself up if you eat something that is "prohibited."
Fasting is unique and different for each person, and only you and God know the most effective form for you. Spend time praying through that before you begin, allowing for flexibility and grace to move as He instructs you.
Do you have a favorite recipe(s) or meal(s) for the Daniel Fast?
Protein oat balls are a lifesaver! Rolled oats, chia/flax seed, dates, unflavored/plain protein powder and vanilla. Make a bunch and stick them in the freezer!
Any additional info, tips, scriptures, or reflections you would like to share?
Isaiah 30:18 - "Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!"
-Laura V, @vielbigl
Read more: What to Eat On Your Daniel Fast
