I noted that fasting is one of the spiritual disciplines you would like to practice
more consistently. e Whitney provided insightful information about fasting, much of
which I never thought about. e I can remember when I first started to fast. It wasn’t
because someone said I should or because I came to some revelation about
fasting. e Rather, I felt moved by the Holy Spirit to fast two days a week. e So, I
started fasting out of obedience. e It makes more sense to me now, realizing how
often fasting is mentioned in Scripture. e Also, it is good to be reminded that Jesus
expects us to fast (Matt 6:16-17). e I agree with Whitney; in today’s churches,
fasting is seldom mentioned; it has been neglected for decades.[1] In my
particular denomination, fasting used to be emphasized, but now it is only
mentioned during special events.
At times, fasting can be challenging, but the benefits far out weight the
difficulties. e Fasting has been a way to help keep my flesh under subjection and to
resist temptation. When I fast, every time I feel a hunger pain, I pray or meditate
on Scripture. e As a result, fasting has also enhanced my prayer and meditation
disciplines. Of course, there has been a day here or there when I may not fast. e I
do not let that bother me; I just get back on track the following week. e I have
discovered over time that fasting has become a part of me. e There are times
when I look forward to fasting because it helps me focus on God, makes me feel
closer to God, and helps me become more sensitive to His voice. e And unlike
some of the other disciplines, fasting does not require any dedicated time. You
had mentioned something that the author stated about the importance to having the
proper relationship with God in order for people to discipline themselves and develop
perseverance in their pursuit of godliness. This is so true because believers we need to
be disciplined in all matters. The first chapter of this book, Whitney stated, “Discipline
without direction is drudgery”. [1] It can be quite challenging to be disciplined in reading
the Bible, praying, fasting etcetera. As believers we need to set a time on purpose and
set boundaries because all these outside detractions and responsibilities we have can
consume a person where you realize that you may have no time to do anything with
regard to Godly matters. Being consistent is something that I pray about often because
sometimes I fall short. I would start of on fire, but then lookup and realized that I may
have not been successful in being consistent. Thank you for your post I enjoyed reading
it.
[1] Donald S. Whitney, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life, 2nd ed. (Colorado
Springs: Navpress, 2014), 192.
