Why Do Christians Fast? (A Simple Bible Teaching for Kids and Families)
Fasting is something many Christians talk about, but not everyone understands what it really means. Some people think fasting must be very long or very hard, like fasting for 21 days. But the Bible shows us that fasting is not about showing strength — it is about seeking God with a sincere heart.
This post explains fasting in simple, Bible-accurate language, so children and families can understand it clearly.
What Is Fasting According to the Bible?
Fasting means choosing to stop eating food for a time so we can focus on prayer and God. It is a way to tell God:
“I want You more than food.”
Jesus Himself fasted and taught His followers how to fast with the right heart (Matthew 6:16–18). Fasting is not about impressing people. It is about drawing closer to God.
The Bible says:
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8)
Fasting Is Not About How Long It Lasts
Many people think fasting must always be 21 days, but the Bible does not say that.
A fast can be:
One hour
Skipping one meal
Part of a day
A full day
What matters most is how long you pray, not how long you stop eating.
God looks at the heart, not the number of days.
Why Do Christians Fast?
Christians fast to:
Pray with focus
Repent and turn away from sin
Ask God for wisdom and help
Grow spiritually
Learn to depend on God
In the Bible, Queen Esther called a fast before a very important moment (Esther 4:16). Jesus fasted before beginning His ministry (Matthew 4:1–2). Fasting often comes before spiritual growth and change.
Milk and Solid Food (A Bible Curiosity)
The Bible compares spiritual growth to food.
It says:
“Anyone who lives on milk is still a baby… But solid food is for the mature.” (Hebrews 5:13–14)
Milk represents basic teaching. Solid food represents deeper understanding.
Fasting helps us grow from milk to solid food by teaching us discipline, prayer, and obedience.
What Fasting Is NOT
Fasting is not:
A punishment
A way to earn blessings
A competition
A way to show off
Jesus warned us not to fast to be seen by others (Matthew 6:16).
True fasting is quiet, humble, and focused on God.
A Simple Way to Start Fasting
Here is a safe and simple way for families to begin:
Choose a short time (like skipping one meal)
Use that time to pray
Read a Bible verse
Ask God to help you grow
Even a small fast can have a big spiritual impact when done with faith.
Stop Chasing Blessings
Many people chase blessings, but the Bible teaches something different.
Jesus said:
“Seek first the kingdom of God… and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)
When we seek God first — through prayer, fasting, and obedience — blessings follow naturally.
Final Thought
Fasting is not about food.
It is about hunger for God.
And if you are hungry to learn more about the Bible in a simple and powerful way…
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