In my continued research on fasting, I found a free book on the IHOP website called The Rewards of Fasting: Experiencing the Power and Affection of God. I've only read a few pages, but it's interesting so far. Dwayne Roberts, in the forward, writes that he believes that fasting should be elementary to a Christian- one of the first things we learn about and develop. It is not that way in most churches today.
So, no ... fasting is not for the strong. It is not for the solid. It is not for the perfect. Fasting is for the common, weak, frail, ordinary individual who realizes his or her lack and has a desperate need for more of God. The realities of fasting truly are a bit bizarre. It doesn’t make sense to our natural minds how sacrificing food and pleasures unlocks our hearts and minds to receive more of God Himself, but the set-up of His kingdom is perfect.
You guys, this is our glory! It is our glory to say “no” to the fleeting earthly pleasures that surround us in the here and now. God has given us an opportunity to choose Him on this side of eternity, above all lesser things. Fasting is more than denying ourselves food. It isn’t really about being hungry. While we do get hungry when we fast, fasting is really about experiencing more of God.What an interesting perspective... Fasting is our glory. That's surprising to me, but when I keep thinking about it, it's exciting, and it starts to make sense.
