Scripture often mentions various types of fasts undertaken by individuals.
Kinds of fasting
Abstaining from food and drink Ezr 10:6 Also see: Da 9:3; Ac 23:12
Abstaining from food only 1Sa 1:7 Also see: Da 6:18
The duration of fasting
One day: the normal fast period Lev 23:32; Jdg 20:26; 2Sa 1:12
Three days Est 4:16; Ac 9:9
Seven days 1Sa 31:13 1Ch 10:12; 2Sa 12:16-20
Forty days
These 40-day fasts are all in unique circumstances and are not prescribed: Ex 34:28; 1Ki 19:8; Mt 4:2 pp Lk 4:2
Regular observances of fasting
Those prescribed by the Law Lev 16:29-31 Also see: Lev 23:26-32; Nu 29:7; Ac 27:9
Those observed in Jewish tradition Zec 8:19 Also see: Est 9:30-31; Zec 7:2-5
Those observed by the Pharisees Lk 18:11-12
Involuntary fasts
Those imposed by decree 2Ch 20:3 Also see: 1Sa 14:24
A special instance of an individual instructed by God to fast: 1Ki 13:8-9,16
1Ki 21:9; Jer 36:9
Those forced by circumstances Ac 27:33; 2Co 6:5; 11:27
Voluntary fasts
Ne 1:4 Also see: Lk 2:37
| Say this prayer to be saved or to renew your relationship with God: “Father in heaven, Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for the forgiveness of my sins. Lord Jesus, please forgive me for all of my sins. Come into my heart, and be my Lord and Savior. Please, help me live for you and fill me with your Holy Spirit. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.” |