17 Jan 2018 ... While it does not command Christians to fast, the Bible does present fasting as something that is beneficial. In Acts, we see believers fasting ...Christianity is important because it has a prominent role in history, and is one of the world’s leading religions. Christianity has the largest numbers of adherents of any religion...As we do not fast on the six Sundays, there are but thirty-six fasting days; . . . which we offer to God as the tithe of our year." The Christians of the West, however, desired that their Lenten fast would, like that of their Eastern brethren, be exactly 40 days, and so, as Dom Guéranger writes,Christian fasting helps disciples of Jesus pray. In this post, learn the biblical purpose of fasting and gain direction for making plans to fast. This post is an excerpt from Your Spiritual Formation Plan: A Devotional Workbook to Guide Your Next Steps with God by Chad Harrington. F asting from food serves as an extension of prayer, and it ...The question is not “Should Christians fast?” but ... God castigates those who fast but do not truly repent: “[O]n the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your ...Eastern Orthodox Christians still fast for six weeks before the birth of Jesus. And fasting is recommended by a host of faiths, who tout its spiritual benefits, from self-mastery to equanimity ...Understanding Christian Fasting: Why It Matters. Christian fasting is a special and meaningful way of connecting with God. It’s like a journey that helps people grow spiritually and become closer to God. 1. Getting Closer to God and Growing Spiritually. Fasting is like a special tool that helps Christians grow spiritually and get closer to God.The truth is that many Christians do fast. Jesus once fasted from food for 40 days ( Matthew 4; Luke 4 ). Early Christians often fasted during special times of prayer ( Acts …You are passionate for more of God and your desire for God becomes greater than your desire for other things.” Fasting refocuses your mind, emotions and will ...Prayer even made the sun stand still! 2.A habit of prayer creates holy men and women. The more we seek God out in prayer, the more our hearts are aligned with what God desires for us and we …Christianity began with the ministry of Jesus Christ, which began when he was around 30 years old in the first century A.D. The birthplace of Christianity was Levant, which is know...7 Jul 2019 ... Creating a plan is important or you may squander your time of fasting. Fasting isn't really about the lack of food. It's about being drawn ...Oct 10, 2023 · The verses I mentioned above showcase the variety of what prayer and fasting make possible for Christians: Praising God ( Nehemiah 9 ); Granting courage ( Esther 4:16) Loving your enemies ( Psalm 35:12-14 ); Reconciling yourself or your country to God ( Daniel 9; Nehemiah 9) Remembering God’s promises ( Luke 2:36-38 ); Granting wisdom ( Acts ... written by Sister McCook February 10, 2023. Christian fasting is a spiritual discipline that is mentioned throughout the Bible. But what is Christian fasting? What are the rules and guidelines for biblical …Fasting is listed as the fourth precept of the Church, which states: "You shall observe the days of fasting and abstinence established by the Church" (CCC 2043). This means that Catholics are under grave obligation to substantially observe these laws. Christians are required by divine law to do penance for their sinsďż˝penance is not optional.By Adam Phillips / September 1, 2023. Yes, some Christians do fast. Fasting is a spiritual discipline that has been practiced by believers for centuries. It is an act of self-denial that is meant to draw the person closer to God. When done correctly, fasting can be a very powerful tool for personal growth and transformation.16/8 Method: This involves fasting every day for 14-16 hours and limiting your daily eating window to 8-10 hours. For example, if you finish your last meal at 8 PM and don’t eat until noon the next day, you’re technically fasting for 16 hours. 5:2 Diet: This involves eating normally for five days of the week, while restricting calories to ...First of all, being a Christian, a follower of Jesus Christ, makes us ambassadors of His Kingdom, sent to represent Him where we are ( 2 Corinthians 5:20 ). This does not …The Bible lists seven festivals that God gave to the nation of Israel for them to celebrate each year (Leviticus 23). The New Testament shows many examples of Jesus, His apostles and the Church of God observing them as well. Each festival is full of rich Christian symbolism, pointing to God’s plan for humanity and Jesus Christ’s role in ...19 Jun 2023 ... Fasting in Orthodox Christianity isn't a mere ritual, it's a spiritual discipline. It paves the way for spiritual growth, fostering a deeper ...How long do Christians fast? It depends on the type of fast that a believer is participating in. Fasts can range from 1 day to a month or even longer depending on the person’s convictions. In this article, I am going to be introducing the different types of fasting that have a historical background, what Christians are allowed to eat, and why the fast …May 3, 2018 · Fasting functions as a kind of assistant to prayer. It comes alongside some specific request we’re making of God, through the access we have in Christ ( Romans 5:2; Ephesians 2:18; 3:12 ), and expresses an unusual earnestness. Fasting, as a handmaid of prayer, makes some special plea to God, with an added intensity from normal, everyday prayer. Muslims have iftar, the fast-breaking evening meal, during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan at Abdul-Qadir Gilani Complex on March 30, 2023 in Baghdad, Iraq.Ash Wednesday is the start of 40 days fasting for Lent, a time of penance before Good Friday, marking the crucifixion of Christ. It actually lasts 46 day but some of those days are Sundays which are not fast days. ... Why do Christians get ashed on Ash Wednesday? It is a reminder that death comes to us all, from Genesis 3:19: 'For ...Yes, we will pray and fast with Muslims, to a certain extent; but we will pray and fast in Jesus' name, and do it for their salvation." "Christians may fast alongside Muslim friends, either as a ...17 Jan 2018 ... While it does not command Christians to fast, the Bible does present fasting as something that is beneficial. In Acts, we see believers fasting ...Mar 23, 2023 · Published 1:51 PM PDT, March 23, 2023. Muslims around the world are welcoming the start of Ramadan, a month of fasting, increased worship, heightened charity, good deeds and community. Christians are also fasting during Lent, the 40-day period of penance and prayer ahead of Easter, which marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 16/8 Method: This involves fasting every day for 14-16 hours and limiting your daily eating window to 8-10 hours. For example, if you finish your last meal at 8 PM and don’t eat until noon the next day, you’re technically fasting for 16 hours. 5:2 Diet: This involves eating normally for five days of the week, while restricting calories to ...Jan 4, 2022 · The Bible teaches that fasting merits neither God’s favor nor a place in paradise. Christians may fast for one of the following reasons: • To demonstrate their satisfaction in God ( Matthew 4:4) • To humble themselves before God ( Daniel 9:3) • To request God’s help ( 2 Samuel 12:16; Esther 4:16; Ezra 8:23) • To seek God’s will ... With the exclusion of Sundays (as Lent is technically 46 days, starting on Ash Wednesday), Christians will engage in a fast of sorts, to remember Jesus’ desert fast ( Matthew 4 ). These rules can even differ amongst traditional denominations, but they usually are as follows, starting on Ash Wednesday: - On Fridays, Christians will abstain ...Dec 21, 2021 · In his article, What Christians Need to Know about Fasting, Sam Storms talks about the different ways Christians fast from food or drink: There is a regular fast which consists of abstaining from all food and drink except for water (Matthew 4:2–3; Luke 4:2). Apart from supernatural enablement, the body can function only three days without water. Question. Christian fasting - what does the Bible say? Answer. Scripture does not command Christians to fast. God does not require or demand it of Christians. …Eastern Orthodox Christians still fast for six weeks before the birth of Jesus. And fasting is recommended by a host of faiths, who tout its spiritual benefits, from self-mastery to equanimity ...Eastern Orthodox Christians still fast for six weeks before the birth of Jesus. And fasting is recommended by a host of faiths, who tout its spiritual benefits, from self-mastery to equanimity ...You are passionate for more of God and your desire for God becomes greater than your desire for other things.” Fasting refocuses your mind, emotions and will ... If so, why do Christians need to fast? Some teach that fasting is required for spiritual growth, yet this is not Biblical. In the days of the early church, eating food was the main form of entertainment. So, believers might fast in order to regain focus on God’s grace. But this was not a spiritual mandate that made prayers get answered or ... There are seven ways to do intermittent fasting: the 12-hour fast, the 16-hour fast, the 5:2 diet, alternate day fasting, a weekly 24-hour fast, skipping a meal, and the Warrior’s Diet. There are similarities between Christian fasting and intermittent fasting. In practice, there is no difference. It’s the spirit behind the act of fasting ...If you're brand new to fasting as a spiritual practice (or have tried fasting before but didn't have a good experience), these 11 steps are key to helping you start fasting as a Christian. 1. Pray and seek God for guidance. Before you fast, praying and asking God for guidance is vital. Prayer is crucial for any decision or new endeavor, and ...Nov 25, 2019 · Matthew 4:1-2. The concept behind Lent is that each year, Christians will mimic Jesus’s actions in the wilderness. Lent is sometimes called the “Great Fast.”. It’s a period of time in which Christians are meant to give up some comfort for self-examination, repentance from sin, and rejuvenation of the soul. This is all in anticipation of ... Naming a baby is a tough job, especially with so many names that mean so many different things. Check out this guide to finding the meaning of Christian names or any names right on...Fasting may include a reduction in the drinking of water and or the consumption of food throughout the day. Prayer should be included and a Christian will want ...Fasting separates you from the distractions of this world and it brings us into a closer union with God. It allows us to hear God better and fully rely upon Him. 1. Jesus expects us to fast. Matthew 6:16-18 “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others ...Christian charities play a vital role in local communities, providing assistance and support to those in need. These organizations are driven by their faith and a desire to make a ...Why should Christians fast? 1.) It cultivates and sustains intimacy with God and 2.) It makes our intentions amazingly powerful.RESPONSE: This form of fasting was passed on in the early Church from Jewish practice. In Matthew, Christ says, “When you fast do not be like the hypocrites,” which indicates that the Jews fasted—it also indicates that Christ assumes that one fasts, for He says “when you fast” not “if you fast.”. Fasting is not something that only ...Former President Donald Trump fares better among American Christians than President Joe Biden in a new Pew Research Center survey on religion and politics. Pew …6 Nov 2007 ... It is also one that some say was only for early day Christians. Looking closely at the Word of God, we find that the Lord never did away with ...The Bible has only one command regarding fasting: God's people are commanded to fast on the Day of Atonement from sundown to sundown (Leviticus 23:27 …But the very discovery of the Christian life as "fight" and "effort" is an essential aspect of fasting. Christian tradition can name at least seven reasons for fasting: From the beginning, God commanded some fasting, and sin entered into the world because Adam and Eve broke the fast. For the Christian, fasting is ultimately about fasting from sin.The word “fast” means not eating all or certain foods. As Orthodox Faithful, we can fast completely at certain times of great importance, and especially each time before receiving Holy Communion. Usually, fasting means limiting the number of meals and/or the type of food eaten. The purpose of fasting is to remind us of the Scriptural ...Eastern Orthodoxy. For Eastern Orthodox Christians, fasting is an important spiritual discipline, found in both the Old Testament and the New, and is tied to the principle in Orthodox theology of the synergy between the body (soma) and the soul (pneuma).That is to say, Orthodox Christians do not see a dichotomy between the body and the soul but … Christian fasting during Ramadan offers an opportunity for solidarity and spiritual discipline within the Christian faith. While Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during Ramadan, Christians may observe a modified form of fasting that aligns with their own beliefs and practices. Although there are differences between Christian and Muslim fasting ... The web page explains the biblical basis and purpose of fasting, a practice of God's people for two millennia. It covers the …Fasting and praying are Bible-based disciplines that are appropriate for all believers of all ages throughout all centuries in all parts of the world. The word "fast" or "a fasting" is tsom in the Hebrew and nesteia in the Greek language. The literal Hebrew translation would be "not to eat." The literal Greek means "no food."17 Jan 2021 ... Fasting is not unique to Christianity; virtually every religious tradition includes it among their devotional practices. Fasting is a biblical ...7 Basic Steps to Successful Fasting and Prayer. How to Begin Your Fast: Steps 1-4. Step 5: Put Yourself on a Schedule. Step 6: Break Your Fast Gradually. Step 7: Expect Results From Your Fast. How to Experience and Maintain Personal Revival. 6 Vital Questions About Prayer. I believe the power of fasting as it relates to prayer is the spiritual ...Why do Christians fast? The main reason Christians fast is to enhance their relationship with Jesus. That relationship growth may come in various different formats, including: Prayer — Many Christians use fasting to help deepen their prayer life or pray for a particular purpose. Some may take this opportunity to ask for guidance or wisdom for ...When it comes to giving back and making a positive impact in the world, many individuals turn to Christian charities. These organizations not only provide assistance to those in ne...Fasting may include a reduction in the drinking of water and or the consumption of food throughout the day. Prayer should be included and a Christian will want ...The fasting of Lent prepares us to not only celebrate Easter, but to become witnesses to the resurrection, and to the hope that the world can become other than what …The word “fast” means not eating all or certain foods. As Orthodox Faithful, we can fast completely at certain times of great importance, and especially each time before receiving Holy Communion. Usually, fasting means limiting the number of meals and/or the type of food eaten. The purpose of fasting is to remind us of the Scriptural ...Fasting draws a Christian into a closer relationship with God. Though the body is deprived, the mind is drawn near to Him. As the physical man is put to death by fasting, the inward, spiritual man grows stronger, as Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:16. This is the important outcome of the different kinds of fasting a Christian can do.Ask Pastor JohnEpisode: 789Transcript: https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/why-do-christians-fastThe Islamic police in Nigeria's northern state of Kano arrested 11 Muslims on Tuesday who were seen eating food during the Ramadan fast. Kano has a majority Muslim population, …Fasting and prayer can restore or strengthen your intimacy with God. Many longtime Christians find that fasting helps them rediscover their “first love” for God again. Fasting is a way to humble yourself in the sight of God (Psalm 35:13; Ezra 8:21). King David said, “I humbled my soul with fasting” (Psalm 69:10).the monastics, but for every Christian. Fasting is not about us, nor is it about our devotion to God, as so many prescribe. We are a culture of abundance that indulges and abuses—fasting is a means of God’s grace to embrace someone greater than our appetites. This book radically changed, simplified, and drew me nearer to Christ.”For Christians, fasting is a way to humble yourself in the presence of God and reaffirm your faith. While fasting isn’t a required …Christianity is important because it has a prominent role in history, and is one of the world’s leading religions. Christianity has the largest numbers of adherents of any religion... Friday fast. The Friday fast is a Christian practice of variously (depending on the denomination) abstaining from meat, dairy products and alcohol, on Fridays, or holding a fast on Fridays, [1] [2] that is found most frequently in the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican and Methodist traditions. Why do Christians fast? The main reason Christians fast is to enhance their relationship with Jesus. That relationship growth may come in various different formats, including: Prayer — Many Christians use fasting to help deepen their prayer life or pray for a particular purpose. Some may take this opportunity to ask for guidance or wisdom for ...“Active natures are rarely melancholy. Activity and sadness are incompatible.” – Christian Bovee Sometim “Active natures are rarely melancholy. Activity and sadness are incompatibl...Matthew 9:15, “The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” (ESV) Jesus makes the assumption that His followers will fast. Notice, that it’s “when” not “if.”. Fasting is an essential of the Christian life, and Jesus understands that the absence of fasting will make us spiritually feeble.Lent is a 40 day season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday. It's a period of preparation to celebrate the Lord's Resurrection at Easter. During Lent, we seek the Lord in prayer by reading Sacred Scripture; we serve by giving alms; and we practice self-control through fasting .What comes to mind when you hear the term fasting? For some, it might be a detox diet or a way to lose weight. But in Christianity, fasting holds a more profound meaning. In the Christian context, fasting typically refers to abstaining from food, drink, or both for a specific period. But why do Christians fast, you might ask?While there is a number of reasons for Christian fasting, the three primary categories fall under Biblical mandates, spiritual disciplines, and health benefits. Reasons for Christian fasting include nearness to God, spiritual freedom, guidance, waiting for Jesus’ return and of course, a healthy body. Let us explore in-depth the real reasons ...Exceptions to particular fasting rules: Orthodox Christians must always fast in ways that are not a detriment to one’s health (to do things that harm the body goes contrary to the faith).Particular fasting disciplines are relaxed, when necessary, when one is travelling or ill. Also, when receiving the hospitality of others (if someone invites you to dinner, for …Mar 9, 2024 · The Lenten fast is a period of fasting and prayer that occurs during the 40 days leading up to Easter. Christians typically give up something during this time, such as sweets or alcohol, as a way of focusing on God and preparing for Easter. The abstinence fast is observed by some Christians during certain seasons, such as Lent or Advent. Published May 03, 2022. Fasting in the Bible. “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. …Feb 28, 2017 · Fasting in Lent means that God is more important. 4. It's a spiritual discipline. When we fast, we are exercising our spiritual muscles. When we refrain from a basic physical desire such as eating, we're saying we refuse to be dominated or controlled by the needs of our bodies. Why do Christians fast? In Matthew 6:16, Jesus looks tells His followers, “When you fast” and proceeds to give specific instructions about how they are to fast and pray. ... Start by choosing the amount of time and the type of fast you are going to do. Fasting can take place for any specific amount of time and can include a ...If you’re new to fasting, start with a 10 hour fast and work your way up to 16 hours. Most of this takes place while you are sleeping, so it’s not nearly as difficult as it sounds. Fasting Variations. 10 HOUR FAST: 14 Hour Eating Window – 10 Hour Fast. (ex. eat all meals between 9am and 11pm – do not eat between 11pm and 9am).Whether fasting is a mandated spiritual activity for every Christian in the New Testament is up for debate. However, all of us have major decisions to make in ...Finding ways to cover medical costs for any family can be a difficult choice. One has to juggle finances, provider networks, and, oftentimes, faith. Fortunately, there are options ...Even today, Jews around the world celebrate the most holy day called Yom Kippur, which is The Day of Atonement. Though Jewish sacrifices ended in AD 70 with the destruction of the temple, Orthodox ...If you’re new to fasting, start with a 10 hour fast and work your way up to 16 hours. Most of this takes place while you are sleeping, so it’s not nearly as difficult as it sounds. Fasting Variations. 10 HOUR FAST: 14 Hour Eating Window – 10 Hour Fast. (ex. eat all meals between 9am and 11pm – do not eat between 11pm and 9am).An Illustrated Guide To Fasting: Why Do We Fast During Lent? Why We Fast…There’s A Purpose! The Pillars of Lent: Almsgiving, Prayer and Fasting Prayer Knocks, Fasting Obtains, Mercy Receives …Christians fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday and don’t consume meat on any Friday of the year. When you are fasting, you are allowed one full-size meal during the 24-hour period and 2 smaller snacks throughout the day. During the 6-week period of Lent, many Christians abstain from a luxury or a certain food of their choice. ...Politics can’t actually divide Christians because we are united in Christ; however, it is up to us to ensure that we are found “standing firm in one spirit, with one …The Bible teaches that fasting merits neither God’s favor nor a place in paradise. Christians may fast for one of the following reasons: • To demonstrate their satisfaction in God ( Matthew 4:4) • To humble themselves before God ( Daniel 9:3) • To request God’s help ( 2 Samuel 12:16; Esther 4:16; Ezra 8:23) • To seek God’s will ...Why do Orthodox Christians fast before Christmas? For many Orthodox believers, a six-week fasting period precedes Christmas festivities. During this period, the consumption of meat, milk, eggs ...Matthew 9:15, “The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” (ESV) Jesus makes the assumption that His followers will fast. Notice, that it’s “when” not “if.”. Fasting is an essential of the Christian life, and Jesus understands that the absence of fasting will make us spiritually feeble.
Mathew 6:16-18: 'When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your …. Casinos in portland oregon
Feb 28, 2017 · Fasting in Lent means that God is more important. 4. It's a spiritual discipline. When we fast, we are exercising our spiritual muscles. When we refrain from a basic physical desire such as eating, we're saying we refuse to be dominated or controlled by the needs of our bodies. If you’re new to fasting, start with a 10 hour fast and work your way up to 16 hours. Most of this takes place while you are sleeping, so it’s not nearly as difficult as it sounds. Fasting Variations. 10 HOUR FAST: 14 Hour Eating Window – 10 Hour Fast. (ex. eat all meals between 9am and 11pm – do not eat between 11pm and 9am).Fasting in Lent means that God is more important. 4. It's a spiritual discipline. When we fast, we are exercising our spiritual muscles. When we refrain from a basic physical desire such as eating, we're saying we refuse to be dominated or controlled by the needs of our bodies.Why do Christians fast? In Matthew 6:16, Jesus looks tells His followers, “When you fast” and proceeds to give specific instructions about how they are to fast and pray. ... Start by choosing the amount of time and the type of fast you are going to do. Fasting can take place for any specific amount of time and can include a ...Whether or not Christians should celebrate Passover is a matter of personal conscience. Like all other Jewish Feasts, it is a foreshadowing of Yeshua…. Passover speaks of his atoning work as the Lamb of God. Colossians 2:16-17 tells us that we should “let no one judge us in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or SabbathsSo why then do Christians fast and abstain? When the devil tempts Jesus in the desert with a comfortable life and a full stomach, Jesus recalls the wisdom of Deuteronomy: “One does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (8:3). Fasting and abstaining makes this real.The Bible doesn't always say how long people fasted, but in some cases, like Judges 20:26 or 1 Samuel 7:6, the fasting period lasts just one day or until the evening. 2. Liquid Fast. Another option is a liquid fast, where you abstain from all food but allow liquids such as smoothies, fresh juices, and pureed soups.More on the History of the Kiss - Most people think about what to do when kissing another person, but fewer ponder all the technical details behind it. Learn about the anatomy of a...12 More Reasons Christians Fast. To become convinced of our responsibility to provide clothes for “the naked”, (Isaiah 58:7c). “And that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh,” (Isaiah 58:7d). To enjoy sound health. “And thine health shall spring forth speedily,” (Isaiah 58:8). To receive enlightenment.6 Nov 2007 ... It is also one that some say was only for early day Christians. Looking closely at the Word of God, we find that the Lord never did away with ...Fasting is way for us to set aside a physical need temporarily in order to focus on a greater spiritual need. (typically fasting from food in order to spend additional time in prayer, worship, study, etc.) There is something deeply spiritual about fasting. A couple major biblical events happened following fasting: Moses in the wilderness, Jesus ...Fasting is way for us to set aside a physical need temporarily in order to focus on a greater spiritual need. (typically fasting from food in order to spend additional time in prayer, worship, study, etc.) There is something deeply spiritual about fasting. A couple major biblical events happened following fasting: Moses in the wilderness, Jesus ...1. First, in order to bridle the lusts of the flesh, wherefore the Apostle says (2 Corinthians 6:5-6): "In fasting, in chastity," since fasting is the guardian of chastity. For, according to Jerome "Venus is cold when Ceres and Bacchus are not there," that is to say, lust is cooled by abstinence in meat and drink. 2.Unless a fast-free period has been declared, Orthodox Christians are to keep a strict fast every Wednesday and Friday. The following foods are avoided: Meat, including poultry, and any meat products such as lard and meat broth. Fish (meaning fish with backbones; shellfish are permitted). Eggs and dairy products (milk, butter, cheese, etc.)The Lenten fast is a period of fasting and prayer that occurs during the 40 days leading up to Easter. Christians typically give up something during this time, such as sweets or alcohol, as a way of focusing on God and preparing for Easter. The abstinence fast is observed by some Christians during certain seasons, such as Lent or Advent.Finding ways to cover medical costs for any family can be a difficult choice. One has to juggle finances, provider networks, and, oftentimes, faith. Fortunately, there are options ..."We asked them to kill all of us or leave us alone." On Dec. 21, al-Shabaab ambushed a passenger bus that was heading to Mandera, a town in northeastern Kenya. The militants tried ... Step 2: Spend extra time in prayer when you are fasting. Christian fasting should always include prayer. When sincere, heartfelt prayer and fasting are combined, they yield powerful results. In fact, the Bible records a situation where the two were not used together. Along with fasting, certain Christian denominations such as the Coptic Orthodox Church, enjoin sexual abstinence during Lent for believers "to give themselves time for fasting and prayer (1 Corinthians 7:5)." Many Christians fast before receiving Holy Communion (traditionally this has been from midnight until the reception of the Eucharist). How long do Christians Fast? Fasting can be done for short periods of time, such as giving up coffee for a week, or for longer periods, such as going without food for 40 days. How long a person chooses to fast is between them and God. Here are the different lengths of fasts found in the bible. Ezra 3 days (Ezra 10:6-17) Ester 3 days.