Fasting provides us with an opportunity to step away from the things we prioritize over spending time with God.

Fasting is usually done by refraining from food with the intent to grow closer with God. But connecting with God through fasting can take many different forms. You should fast from anything that you rely on more than God. Then as you go throughout your day, you have the opportunity to build dependence on God by trusting in Him, instead of in what you relied on before. It is important to know that nothing will fill nor satisfy us the way God can. This action looks different from person to person. Kelly Johnson, author and counselor, shared how she learned from her experience of fasting from social media.

Each of us has things that take various priorities in our lives. Social media is not a bad thing, but it played a negative role in Kelley’s life. Are there things in your life that take too much of your time and focus? Kelly says that social media was like eating a piece of candy when she needed a nutritious meal. She wanted and craved relationship. Instead of pursuing a relationship with God, she put technology in His spot. This left her mentally and spiritually malnourished and weak. We all have weaknesses like this that get in the way of a stronger walk with God.

Apply

• What is your “piece of candy” that is getting in the way of your nourishing relationship with God?
• How can you begin to pursue God more today?

Scripture

Matthew 4:8-10

8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9 “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.”

10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”

Romans 12:2

2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.