There are different kinds of fasts: a total fast from foods and liquids for a short interval of time; a liquid fast, in which only water may be drunk; a juice fast, which involves drinking water and a given amount of juices at normal mealtimes; a fast from meats, in which only fruits and vegetables may be eaten.
It is important to understand the effects of fasting on the spirit, soul, and body. Before committing to a fast, I encourage you to study the Word of God and to read books that provide important nutritional and other health information. Understanding will help to avoid harm and injury—both physically and spiritually.
Do not flaunt your fast, but do talk with your family and close associates if necessary to let them know what you are doing.
(Personal note: During times of fasting I continue to prepare meals at home for my family.)
Prayer
Father, I consecrate this fast to You and set my mind to gain understanding in these matters for which I am concerned. (Write your concerns out and keep them before your eyes. Do not lose sight of the reason for your fast.)
I humble myself before You, Most High God. In accordance with Daniel 10:1-3, I will eat no __________ for the period of ________.
I obey the words of Jesus by putting on festive clothing, so that no one will suspect that I am fasting.
Father, You know every secret, and I look to You for my reward. I am assured that You hear me when I pray according to Your will, and I know that I shall have the petitions that I desire of You.
Father, I delight myself in You, and You cause my desires to be agreeable with Your will.
I choose the fast You have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke. I share my food with the hungry and provide the poor wanderer with shelter.
When I see the naked, I will clothe him, and I will not turn away from my own flesh and blood. Then my light will break forth like the dawn, and my healing will quickly appear; then my righteousness will go before me, and Your glory, Lord, will be my rear guard.
Father, thank You for cleansing me—spirit, soul, and body. All my ways seem innocent to me, but my motives are weighed by You, my Lord and my Master. I commit this fast to You, and my plans will succeed. I thank You that it is You Who give the wise answer of the tongue.
Forever, O Lord, Your Word stands firm in heaven. Your faithfulness extends to every generation, like the earth You created; it endures by Your decree, for everything serves Your plans.
In Jesus' name, amen.
Scripture References
Matthew 6:17,18 TLB 1 Thessalonians 5:23
1 John 5:14,15 Proverbs 16:2,3 NIV
Psalm 37:4 Proverbs 16:1
Proverbs 16:3 AMP Psalm 119:89-91 TLB
Isaiah 58:6-8 TLB
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers