Fasting: A Spiritual Discipline to Get God’s Attention

Ojone Pitas
Aug 22
3 min read

Updated: Nov 28

A man and woman sitting at a table to eat

Fasting is more than just abstaining from food. It is a spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God and aligns our hearts with His will. Throughout Scripture, we see how fasting moved God’s hand, brought divine intervention, and opened the door for supernatural breakthroughs. When done with sincerity and faith, fasting can capture God’s attention in ways that transform our lives.

Understanding the Purpose of Fasting

Getting God’s attention doesn’t mean manipulating Him to fulfil our desires. Instead, it means positioning ourselves to hear His voice, receive His guidance, and experience His presence more deeply. Isaiah 58:6–9 (NKJV) reminds us that true fasting is about humility, repentance, and aligning with God’s purpose:

"Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke?" (Isaiah 58:6)

Fasting opens the door for spiritual clarity, breakthrough, and answered prayer when done with a heart that seeks God first.

Biblical Examples of Fasting That Got God’s Attention

1. Esther – Fasting for Divine Favour

When the Jewish people were threatened with annihilation, Esther called for a fast. She and her people fasted for three days, seeking God’s intervention (Esther 4:16). As a result, God granted her favour before the king, and the nation was spared.

Lesson: Fasting can open the door to divine favour in times of crisis.

2. Daniel – Fasting for Revelation and Understanding

Daniel fasted for 21 days, seeking understanding about a vision from God (Daniel 10:2–3). During this fast, an angel appeared to him, delivering divine insight and assurance.

Lesson: Fasting brings spiritual clarity, revelation, and a deeper understanding of God’s will.

3. Nineveh – Fasting for Mercy and Forgiveness

When Jonah warned the city of Nineveh about impending judgment, the king and all the people humbled themselves through fasting and repentance (Jonah 3:5–10). God saw their humility and spared the city from destruction.

Lesson: Fasting combined with repentance can move God to show mercy and change the outcome of judgment.

4. Jesus – Fasting for Power and Ministry

Before beginning His public ministry, Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–2). This rapid preparation equipped Him for the spiritual battles ahead and empowered Him to fulfil His divine assignment.

Lesson: Fasting equips us with spiritual strength and prepares us for God’s work.

How to Fast to Get God’s Attention

Fast with Sincerity – Approach fasting with a humble and repentant heart (Joel 2:12–13).
Combine Prayer and the Word – Fasting without prayer is only dieting. Pair your fast with scripture study and meditation.
Seek God’s Will, Not Just Results – Align your desires with His purpose and plans (Matthew 6:33).
Be Consistent – Start with small fasts and grow into longer, more intentional ones as the Spirit leads.
Practice Righteousness – Isaiah 58 teaches that acts of justice, mercy, and kindness must accompany fasting.

The Spiritual Benefits of Fasting

Fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it is a profound spiritual practice. It can lead to:

Increased Clarity: Fasting helps clear our minds, allowing us to focus on God’s voice.
Deeper Connection: It fosters a closer relationship with God, as we seek Him earnestly.
Enhanced Spiritual Strength: Fasting builds resilience against spiritual battles and temptations.

Encouragement

Fasting is a spiritual key that can unlock heaven’s doors. Whether you need breakthrough, clarity, or favour, fasting aligns your spirit with God’s presence and power. Like Esther, Daniel, Nineveh, and Jesus, you too can experience God’s divine intervention when you fast with faith.

Prayer

Lord, I come before You with a humble heart. Teach me to fast with sincerity and faith. May my time of fasting draw me closer to You, open my eyes to Your will, and move Your hand in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fasting is a vital practice that can transform our spiritual lives. It is not merely about food; it is about seeking God’s presence and aligning our hearts with His will. As we embark on this journey of fasting, let us remember the examples set by those in Scripture. They remind us of the power of sincere fasting and its ability to get God’s attention. Embrace this discipline, and watch as it opens doors to divine favour and intervention in your life.