If you dread the idea of not eating for days on end but you long to honor God’s admonition to fast, this post will show you a method of fasting made easy.
As I sat on the bathroom floor, my stomach churning with empty threats, I had to ask myself- “Is it really that bad?”. You see, I had chosen to participate in a 3-day church-wide fast and the sudden switch to water only was not agreeing with my body.
No doubt there are people dealing with problems much worse than a temporary leave from food. I felt weak and relieved at the same time. After all, if I was unwell, I had an excuse to end the fast.
Fasting, it is the topic that I would dread to hear mentioned in church. Yes, I was aware of great men and women of the Bible who practiced fasting and I knew the verses that shared about its power, but that encouragement to fast left me swimming in a sea of fear and condemnation. I longed to be obedient but I just couldn’t get there.
Maybe that’s you or maybe you are comfortable with fasting and you’d like to learn how to reap the benefits of fasting in your daily life. If food is an area of testing for you, I think you are going to feel liberated and love this fasting that fits into your daily life!
Fasting in the Bible
Throughout the Bible, we read of faithful men and women who fasted with prayer and purpose. Many of these individuals were faced with troublesome circumstances that left them weak in the knees.
These believers met overwhelm and fear with a fast:
- Moses fasted in despair because of the sin of the Israelites (Deuteronomy 9:9).
- David fasts, petitioning God to heal his child (2 Samuel 12:16-23).
- Nehemiah fasts and prays over Jerusalem, confessing sin on their behalf (Nehemiah 1:4).
- Saul fasted after his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:9).
Others fasted as a way to prepare and prevent:
- The Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness before He began His earthly ministry to be strengthened and tested (Matthew 4:1-11).
- Paul and Barnabus fasted as they appointed elders, committing them to God (Acts 14:23).
- The prophet and widow Anna served in the temple with fasting and prayer (Luke 2:37)
- Esther and her attendees fast before she appears before the king, pleading for the protection of her people (Esther 4:16).
Fasting is Powerful
So, why would one purposefully deprive themselves of food? Well, it’s certainly not for fun! I don’t know about you but I like to be comfortable. For example, my bed has to be just so before I crawl in. If the air conditioning in the house is too hot or too cold, I fix it right away. If a glare shines in my eyes, I move.
But, you and I, we do things that aren’t fun every single day- for a great purpose. Laundry, anyone? If we can catch a glimpse of the power behind pushing away our plates, we can uncover the desire to do the difficult. By denying ourselves, we set the stage for great things!
In Isaiah, we see a synopsis on what makes fasting so fabulous.
“No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people.”
Isaiah 58:6 (NLT)
Fasting opens doors that are slammed shut.
It lightens burdens. It breaks chains that refuse to be cut. If you have any stuckness in your life, a fast may be for you.
Fasting is Effective
What makes fasting so exceptionally effective? While I am no Biblical scholar, I do like to eat. Chances are that you do too. Food is woven into our days.
From 3 square meals to holiday feasts, much of our lives revolve around what we eat. God made food delicious and He built our bodies with appetites that motivate us for necessary sustenance. Hunger, it begs to be answered.
Not eating for the sake of not eating does nothing for us spiritually. But when denying ourselves is paired with an upward focus, we are unstoppable.
To be spiritually effective, we must allow the “daily-ness” of food and the incessant drive to eat as cues to focus ourselves on communication with the Father. This place of humility found in self-denial puts us in the perfect position to recognize our dependence on God and to receive His grace-filled answers.
This is why we can apply fasting to just about any area of our lives.
For example, my pointer finger seems to have programmed itself to open up Facebook on my phone. I know that I meant to check the baby monitor but here I am, scrolling my newsfeed. When the magnetic force of social media is redirected to The Majestic, we’ve got a cue for constant communication.
Fasting Made Easy
My history with fasting is far from great. In my teens, I skipped meals for the sake of the scale and then my feeble attempts at spiritual fasts were a failure. For many of us, not eating is scary.
Maybe it’s because of our previous experience. Maybe it’s fear of the unknown. Regardless, we put our fingers in our ears and flee from its mention.
If you are anything like me, you may find yourself feeling pretty lousy about that. If only I were just stronger? Why can’t I just do it? What is my problem?
My friend, those are diet side effects.
Ah, now the enemy would love for us to feel condemned about our shortcomings! If he can only put a wedge between us and God, he would consider himself successful. But, these condemning thoughts are NOT from God. Give Him the stress and anxiety.
God sees your heart my friend, and if fasting is something you want to do but can’t quite seem to make it happen, the rest of this post is for you.
Fasting Made Easy With Food
Obviously, we know about fasting from food but what about fasting for (freedom from) food. Meaning, can you think of a better way to break chains around food than by fasting the very thing itself?
While someone who struggles with shopping may fast the mall, those of us who find ourselves drawn to eat more than we need can draw the line in the sand by giving God some of those extra bites.
By denying ourselves that which we may want the most, we’re sending a clear message to our flesh and to our Father that we are serious about finding freedom as we glorify God.
“But”, you say, “fasting makes me want to run the other way!” I GET IT… keep reading.
Fasting Made Easy That Fits into Your Daily Life
This is where I want to introduce fasting made easy into your daily life. I will preface this by saying that this practice is not intended to preempt Biblical fasting that is described as not eating for an extended period of time.
This practice is meant to complement Biblical fasting or to be an entry point for those who would not do so otherwise. Folks like me!
Fasting is about self-denial, doing something that you don’t naturally want to do for a greater purpose. This exclusion is uncomfortable and probably difficult; it keeps you on your knees and your toes at the same time. You talk to God more because there is a space and there is a need to do so. Our lives and our relationship with our Creator are molding for greatness in those moments.
Now, think about your relationship with food. Are there certain types of foods or times of eating that trip you up? Take a moment and think of your Top 3.
From that list, pick one. It may be the easiest or the most difficult, it doesn’t matter.
Ask yourself– what is one way that you can fast the food or habit in a way that will grow your dependence on and glorification of God? Let me provide a few examples:
- If you tend to CONTROL your food intake, always choosing low-fat or low-carb options, so much so that it dominates your life- you may choose to fast that control and eat “normal” meals with your family.
- If you overeating at meals, your fast could be the last 3 bites as you stop eating when satisfied.
- If you tend to snack on unhealthy food, consider fasting between meals and don’t eat between your scheduled meals. Or only eat from a plate.
- Is your afternoon slump leading to poor food choices? Fast your toughest hour and plan a nourishing meal or snack for afterward.
- Do you “have to” have your daily latte or soda? Swap it out or skip it.
- Is your after-dinner dessert becoming a habit rather than a treat? Push through the desires to indulge and go to bed a little more empty.
How to Practice Fasting Made Easy
Have you thought of what and how you would like to fast? Before you proceed any further, let me encourage you to choose a fast that feels doable to you and say a prayer for food freedom.
Yes, it will be uncomfortable and no, you won’t want to do it but please choose something that is realistic.
It is ok to start small. Once you conquer those humble beginnings, you can move into new territory. Keep in mind that this is about denying our flesh and about our relationship with God. Try to keep your motivations away from weight loss, as we both know how that particular goal tends to fizzle when things get tough.
7 Steps to Food Freedom With Fasting Made Easy
- Determine the top 3 food habits that feel near and dear to your heart.
- Choose ONE habit to fast.
- Tweak the fast until if feels slightly difficult but still doable.
- Practice this fast, using the discomfort as a cue to communicate with and rely on God.
- Keep going until the fast starts to feel easy.
- Repeat the process.
- Find more and more food freedom!
As you can see, fasting doesn’t have to be dramatic to be effective and life-changing. When we look at those faithful followers who have gone before us, we can see the importance of denying our flesh for great things. And while a total fast can be scary, making the fast bite-size has its advantages in bringing the practice into our daily lives.
By choosing the habit that has a hold on us, we can begin to slowly break the chains while finding our strength in the One who is Strength.
Comment below and share what you plan to fast or if you need help finding a fast that feels just uncomfortable enough, I’d be happy to help!
PLEASE NOTE: If you suffer from or have suffered from an eating disorder, please seek wise counsel before embarking on any type of fast. Prayerfully seek the Lord to find His direction about what He would like you to give up for His name’s sake.
Maybe it’s your anxiety around food or thinking about what you are going to eat. Maybe it’s loosening the reigns a bit or eating something that you’ve considered “off limits” for a long time. For some, doing more may be more sacrificial than doing less.
Whatever you do, do it with GRACE!
Brandice Lardner is a Certified Personal Trainer, Nutrition Coach, Amazon #1 Best Selling Author, Homeschool Mom, and Jesus Girl whose mission in life is to help women ditch the diet mentality and find peace with food and their bodies so that they are better equipped to do the great things God has called them to do.
I’ve found success in waiting for an hour after getting up in the morning before I eat or drink anything other than water. Then the same day the next week I go 2 hours and so on until I’m consuming only water the whole day. I like things broken down into bite-size pieces (pun intended) also!
I love that approach! Each week you can gain more confidence in how you and God can work together. Thanks for sharing!
I love this concept, Michele, thanks for sharing. Bite sizes are doable.
I am committing to fasting from 8 pm to 8 am.
With Him in mind, these changes get easier! But do be sure to give yourself grace, Sharman!
I love the “use the discomfort as a cue to communicate with and rely on God”. That really hit home. Great advice. I am going to try this with unhealthy snacking.
Glad you found that helpful, Devin!
I have a huge issue with bedtime sweet snack. About 8pm I get an overwhelming desire for just a little something sweet. Milk and cookies, ice cream, a slice of pie, (or the whole thing). I am turning that over to God right now.
I think turning it over to God is a great idea, Jody! And when those desires come calling, go running to Him. Remember, those sweets will still be there tomorrow and you can have one then, if you are still wanting one. 🙂
I think I will base my small fast on my fear of going hungry when I am out of the house, this always causes me to overeat and once it inflamed my gastritis to the point where I couldn’t stand up.
I want to eat for God’s glory for real, not just quote the scripture.
Sounds like some gentle self-talk will help with that, Ayabonga. “I’ll get to food soon. Hunger is not an emergency. The food will taste SO good when I get to eat” may help calm those anxieties 🙂
I am committing to fast all carbonated drinks and using those craving moments to talk to God!!!
Sounds like a great plan, Holly!
Brandice, thanks for bringing this topic to the table! I’ve always struggled with the idea of fasting and dread the new year knowing our church will do a fast! Months before the new year I am already thinking about how come January I will have to make a decision about participating or not! I really appreciate your thoughts on taking small steps that fit into our daily lives as a way to participate and possibly work your way up to a multiple day fast from all food. It’s also validating to hear someone else verbalize how scary fasting can be when you have not always had the healthiest relationship with food! This is something that has felt isolating to me in the past and I don’t think is talked about enough within the church. But thanks so much for talking about it and bringing so much wisdom to the topic!
I am so happy to hear that this article has given you some peace! Hopefully, this year you can find something that is /just/ difficult enough. And meaningful, but not so scary that it steals your peace and joy. That way we can be cheerful givers!
Hi Brandice! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on how to achieve food freedom through fasting. I really enjoyed your honesty and authenticity about your own journey with fasting. I’ve been very interested in fasting but I don’t think I could complete a Daniel Fast at this time. Lately I’ve been really struggling with overindulging and eating more fast food and desserts than healthy foods. I’ve noticed that I have really low self-control and have a hard time restricting myself. Then when I do succumb to my craving I beat myself with my internal thoughts. I would really appreciate your help in finding a fast that would work for me.
Hi Alicia! I would love to chat! I will email you 🙂
I do the same thing Alicia. Brandice can you give some suggestions?
Hi Angela! Thanks for the note! Alicia is part of my Platinum program so I just started a conversation with her via email 🙂
So, the idea with this kind of fasting is to pick something SMALL BUT MEANINFUL. We’re going for a little uncomfortable so that our gift to the Lord means something but not setting ourselves up for failure.
Is there a small food behavior that you could change, for the glory of God?
This just what I needed to hear and read. I struggle with fast all the time. I do want a closer relationship with God, but fasting has always been a struggle for me. Why I do know but it has been very hard.
You are not alone, Maria! I think there is a reason why God chose fasting– it’s NOT easy and we need to rely ON HIM. Hopefully, this article has shown you some entry points that can allow you to benefit from fasting (that’s doable).
I have extreme anxiety and actually diagnosed OCD around food. It’s weird because I’m concerned about it hurting my health but my brain just “shuts down” and gets too overwhelmed to decide what to eat, much less cook, so I end up eating a lot of fast food. Granted, I usually go for the chicken nuggets rather than a burger, but it’s still fast food. I want to do a fast from fast food for my church’s upcoming 21 days of prayer but I’m concerned about the preparation for it as I’m going to need something ready to go for when my brain shuts down and I want to run by McDonalds. Any tips? I am the type that can eat the same things over and over and over, so maybe I just need to start with one simple meal and move forward from there.
Hi Susannah, it is great to hear from you! I completely understand the analysis paralysis– there are SO many food choices around. It took me 10 minutes to pick out pasta the other day because there were over 100 options 🙂
It makes sense that you’d just settle on fast food. It’s simple and easy and it solves the issue (over-thinking and hunger). It sounds like God is moving on your heart in this area.
First, prayerfully consider how much fast food you want to fast. It doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. You could do your fast for a particular meal each day or certain days of the week. Just be sure to be clear, so there is no confusion that leads to overwhelm.
My suggestion would be to sit down with a trusted person and list out some meal options. A great place to start is asking yourself what foods you really enjoy. It if is chicken nuggets, can you make a healthier version? Maybe it’s pizza and you do a healthy flatbread pizza (FlatOut flat bread, veggies, sauce, cheese, done!). Whatever it is, think of what you like most and stick with those. It will make it much easier to drive past the Mickey D’s.
Then jot it down. Maybe you do a meal plan for the week or just take a moment the day before to create a loose mental plan.
You may find this post on anxiety helpful: http://gracefilledplate.com/stress-eat-anxiety-crushing-tool/
For meals, you may get some good ideas here: http://gracefilledplate.com/healthy-lunch-busy-mom/
Please let me know what you think! Praying for you now <3
I’m right there with ya, Susannah… but mine is due to laziness… lack of planning… lack of discipline… non-existent cooking skills… lack of effort… going through life on auto-pilot. I have chosen to fast ‘taking the (mindless) easy way out’. I will honor the Lord by consciously planning to fuel my body, instead of leaving it to chance with obvious junk. Being prepared, instead of falling prey. Does that mean I’m gonna cook every meal from scratch? Of course not, that’s not realistic for me. But I can choose to put some peanut butter and a banana in my bag, etc, to give myself an option (an out) that honors God… a conscious effort.
Thanks for writing this Brandice!
My church also does a week of fasting and prayer at the beginning of each new year, and I would always make excuses as to why I can’t do it. I’m glad to know I’m not alone in that fear of fasting!
This year, I did participate for the first time, in that I skipped lunch one day, and used that time to pray. So far, that’s the only fasting I’ve done is just skipping lunch occasionally. Hopefully I might work my way up to fasting breakfast AND lunch, but I don’t think I could ever fast all day or multiple days, since food affects how my prescription meds are absorbed.
For me, the hardest thing (aside from the fast itself) is trying not to overeat at the next meal. I suppose that defeats the spiritual purpose of fasting, if I’m telling myself “just a few more hours until supper”, and then I eat more than usual at that meal. I think I need to focus more on the self-denial and reliance on God! And I really need to do a fast from dark chocolate!
Hi Barbara! What a fantastic way to approach your fast! It’s not the length but our hearts. If one meal is a challenge- great! That’s a sacrifice that costs you.
You’re right– how we think impacts how we act. If you are counting down the minutes it will be harder to slow down than if you were focused on the WHY. Can you extend your fast to the next meal by sticking to one moderate plate of food?
Brandice,
Thank you so much for addressing this in the manner that you did. I have done full day fasting and while it’s supposed to draw you closer to God, all it did was draw me closer to my thoughts on food. I have a dear friend who fasts once a week and when I told her that I was going to fast something other than food, she was quick to point out that the point was to give up the food to show my devotion to God. I have been wanting to fast but all I can think of when I go to try is this narrow view of fasting. I look up to this woman spiritually so I figured I was in the wrong for not doing a full day, no food fast.
I have never heard of fasting presented the way it has been done here. I am actually excited to fast! I know that I have to have my nightly dessert so I that will be the first thing I give up for a fast. I am eager to meet with the Lord and hear from him…to be able to get “unstuck” and move forward in some intense decisions I am having to make.
Again,
Thank you..
Tammy
Hi Tammy! I’m glad you found some relief in this approach like I did. The law heaps burdens but working with the Holy Spirit, as you felt– is exciting! I’d love to hear how it goes 🙂
I would like to do this too….at night is when I’m tempted to snack and eat when I’m really not hungry. I appreciate the encouragement from everyone and the creative ideas posted here.
Thank You,
Becky
It’s fun to be sharing the journey, isn’t it, Becky?! 🙂
I love this! Two weeks ago I “gave up” my nightly habit of wine and popcorn snack before bed. I had not thought of that as fasting! Thank you!!! Prayer is what has helped me with this, but the mind set change of not giving something up, but rather that I am fasting is a blessing! Thank you for sharing this, I have been terrified of fasting, but this perspective is a true God send!
Hi Robyn! I let out a sigh of relief when this thought came to mind too. It’s all about the state of our hearts. It’s so cool that God was leading you this way already.
I have used fasting to control my weight. In fact, I got such a high off of fasting and the fact that total denial was something I could do that it started to become the only time i felt normal. “Fasting” gave me power and control over food and appetite. Whenever i felt out of control or the scale moved up, i would “fast” sometimes for weeks eating nothing solid. My church is a fasting church, so i believed what i was doing was spiritual. I would fast much more and much longer than my brothers and sisters thinking it was a good thing. After many years of this, my body began to break down. My bloodwork showed deficiencies and my joints became painful and i got too weak to fast, so i stopped fasting for the most part. My weight increased alarmingly. My response would be to try to fast to get it back down but my body would crash after just a couple of days without food. I began to see i had a problem that ran much deeper than food. I had to admit to God that a lot of my “fasting” was about control. I was terrified of becoming heavy. I was in bondage to that fear. Even when i was not fasting, i had my food “rules” that were bible to me. More control. Recently, in the past two years, i got this revelation in prayer that the worship i would offer to God would be to relinquish my control and give my diet “rules” to Him. This was infinitely more challenging than fasting for me. Since i stopped starving myself (fasting), i have gained 40 pounds probably because i really messed up my metabolism. So, i worship Him through acceptance of my body (that He created to weigh and look as pleased Him and not the world), eating 3 meals a day plus snacks, no food restrictions, nourishing my body with healthy foods (and some treats as well), and trusting myself to His control. Today, i am pretty average in weight and size which means i am a bit overweight like most other women my age in this country but i have never felt more free. I enjoy meals with my family and friends, i have donuts in my house without fear, there is ice cream in my freezer, and occasionally i even eat pizza or fast food! I feel better and am able to be active physically but most importantly, i have developed a deeper knowledge of God and an understanding that His ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts. The world values thinness and appearance but God looks on the heart. A few extra pounds don’t bother Him. He is not looking at the scale or a BMI chart and judging anyone. All of that stuff is man-made and we sometimes revere it like it’s Bible. So, my fast unto God is to deny myself from feeding the world’s images of beauty and fitness and conforming myself to those demands. I have not yet reached a place where i can do a traditional food fast. When i think about it, it’s like God says, “no, that’s not what I want….just keep doing what you’re doing”. 🙂
I LOVE this, Guppy! Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. Wow, you really put it all on the line for God and He met you there. I am in awe of what He has done and I love your message! (sounds like you’d have an awesome blog 🙂 )
WOW —- thank you SO much for sharing — what an amazing testimony ,and SO helpful to others that are going through the same thing you did —- LOVE “A few extra pounds don’t bother Him. He is not looking at the scale or a BMI chart and judging anyone. All of that stuff is man-made and we sometimes revere it like it’s Bible. So, my fast unto God is to deny myself from feeding the world’s images of beauty and fitness and conforming myself to those demands.” — SO NEEDED TO HEAR THIS!!!!!
Thanks! I’m glad it spoke to you 🙂
Guppy, thank YOU for sharing your heart and struggle with fasting. I have a coworker who uses intermittent fasting to control her weight; she constantly puts down others (“she wouldn’t have to run if she fasted”, “you’d lose weight if you fasted”, etc). Your post helped me with how I feel about her negativity to others and put it in perspective so I now understand it’s all about the control with her.
I’m so thankful that you feel better!
Fasting is hard for me. I do love this approach. I need to try to eat only from a plate and fast in between. I hate that I have let food have this much control over my life. Time for a doable change. Thank you for your encouraging words and a doable approach.
So glad this resonates with you, Kim! It’s a great place to start 🙂
You just sent me the suggestion to wait 3 minutes before I want to binge/overeat. I did that, and it helped at first then I binged. I’m walking/moving in the right direction though so I’m keeping my eyes peeled to the Lord. I had already been thinking about fasting before I saw this blog post. I was thinking of fasting bread, pasta, rice, and crackers. Just fasting bread alone is a struggle for me. So maybe I’ll start with bread and go from there.
I know it’s hard, Brenda, but the goal of the pause is not to stop the binge. It’s to create a glitch in the pattern, to let you learn about what’s motivating the overeating, and to give you space to make a choice. There is no condemnation! Fasting bread may be a great start. If it still feels too much, you can always start with one meal a day too.
Hi Brandice, I’m not sure where to start, but I’ve got to start some where. Reading your blog has gotten me thinking that something has to give. I love what you’re saying an I like the comments from others. I to struggle with eating just to eat,my thoughts are always “what is there to eat” don’t have to be hungry just want something. So I’m going to start with not snacking between meals. And when those thoughts hit me, I’ve got to remind myself to give it to God. Thanks for letting me ramble.
Wanda, I’m so glad you’re here. Please reach out if I can help in any way 🙂
I have fasted at many different times in the past. On the 29th….my Dr wanted me to have my blood work done because she was worried about my blood sugar. I went and had it done. I received my results on the 31st. My A1C was good but my sugar level was elevated and getting closer to me becoming a diabetic.
At that time I realized that I had to make a change. My older son always told me that what we eat is our choice. He gives tough love. He said Mama…. it’s life or death. The choice is yours. I remembered that seed.
I loved Fried Foods, Sweets, Chips, and French Fries.
This was one of the hardest challenges to me. This time made me pray and give God more of my time.
I no longer eat Fried foods.
I no longer eat mayonnaise….I now eat something that I never liked….mustard.
I no longer eat carbs!
I no longer eat sweets!
I no longer drink sodas!
I am so so thankful for God leaving me through my sacrifice. I honestly hadn’t even looked at it as a fast. Yes…..this is VERY hard for me but I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me.
My grandmother, 2 brothers, sister, nephew and recent deceased niece are diabetics. I pray and ask God to remove the generational Illness away from me.
Thank You so much for your blogs! They are truly helpful to me and I know others.
That’s AMAZING, Rosalind! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Thanks for the article. I’ve always felt that fasting was all or nothing. I never thought I could do it in bite size portions. I’m praying and asking the Hold Spirit to direct me as ti how and what I should fast.
That’s great, Pam! I’d love to hear an update 😉
I’m in work at 5am, so i drink water and now at 9:25am I’m having coffee with some Keto Ghee butter in it-it’s supposed to be good to keep me in Ketosis. Been having a hard time with that and haven’t seen the scale move yet. I’m hoping when i weigh in after doing all my urinating (I’m on an am water pill-so i don’t weigh until it’s done it’s work.) I have been trying to “tithe” food, it’s tough, but I’m working at it. Is 5-9 enough of a fast to begin with?
Linda, there really is no “right” way to do this. It’s all about our hearts. I find it less about hunger and more about what draws you closwer to the Lord. So, I can’t answer that for you… can you pray about it and see what God impresses upon your heart, remembering that He wants your attention more than sacrifice?
Dear Brandice
This is something i can totally do -fasting one thing at a time. I think what overwhelmes most of us is the feeling that you have to give it all up at once, and that can make your mind tilt. Your practical suggestion will help rid us of our bad habit “ticks and fleas”, one tick or flea at a time, and before you know it we are tick free 🙂
Thank you for this brilliant post! I actually feel excited about fasting for the first time in years!!
I know i have to swop coffee for water, so here i go.
I believe you gave fasting a new purpose.
You totally shifted my perspective from not allowed to eat or drink, to how can i exchange it for something that serves His temple (me) better?
Thank you Father for sharing this revelation with Brandice!!
See you on the other side with a hydrated skin and clearer mind 🙂
I’m so glad this resonated, Hester! The excitement is evidence of the conviction of the Holy Spirit. When condemnation comes, we feel awful about ourselves. But conviction, while it does sting a bit, it’s ultimately wrapped in joy as we lock arms with God to change. Please keep me posted on your progress 🙂
I would go to (food) war with you Brandice! Thank you for keeping us accountable too! I will keep you posted.
I need help, I’m not quite grasping this or how to do it or when, I’m some times a stress eater or I’m bored or I’m trying to stay awake and it’s not junk food that I have a problem with sometimes it’s eating to much of really good food, right now I gave to be to bed by six thirty pm I get up for work at 4am it’s hard to sleep when your hungry
I’m happy to help, Pamela! It could be setting a timer for 30 minutes during a troublesome time that doesn’t affect your sleep, “fasting” between breakfast and lunch or lunch and dinner if you tend to graze, or tossing 1-3 bites a meal (you know how hard it can be to leave food on your plate? Doing that unto the Lord is great thing!). Does that help?
I have problem eating at night while watching tv. I’ll go back and forth about three times. So I am going to fast by not eating after 7. I found this article extremely helpful. Thank you.
Awesome, Toni! How did it go?
This is a great article – taking simple, easier steps first and practising – I love that line “use the discomfort as a cue to communicate or rely on God”.
Thank you – my toughest time at the moment is that 3-5pm time – I think that is when I will do my quiet time.
Thanks
Great plan, Jane! I’d love to hear how it goes 🙂
I have plans to fast ice cream. I will begin to have 1 stick of ice cream once a week and then it will be twice a month and then once a month and then 0.
Love this step-down approach, Terri!
Thank you for breaking this down like this! When you mentioned Facebook, that really spoke to me. I almost never post anything, but I can’t tell you how many times a day I pick up my phone and just scroll through. So that will be my number 1. And next will be afternoon coffee.
Love the plan, Kathy!
Thank you for such an insightful take on fasting. My church is doing a 30 day fast. I was fasting from Facebook (Thank you for your honesty on social media… I am a shocker) and unfortunately broke my fast. But I’m not allowing condemnation filter in.
I want to build up to be able to do a 3 day fast (when I’m not working…I’m about to graduate as a nurse but currently work in a nursing home) I was thinking of fasting my evening meal. Evening can be a binge time for me anyway…why not glorify God? Thank you, Kylie.
I know how deflating it is to break a fast but remember that we’re the only ones who get all “all-or-nothing” about things. You can still choose a random time to pray instead of scroll 🙂 It sounds like the evening meal could work really well for you. Just keep an eye out for lunch/afternoon snack panic and plan something satisfying while trying not to overdo it. Another option would be to fast after dinner (if that’s when you really struggle), keep the same thing in mind for dinner. Let me know how it goes!
I appreciate your insight and that of others regarding fasting. I struggle with after dinner nibbling up to bed time. I will fast with not eating after 8:00 p.m. Each week I will decrease 15 minutes until I reach the “no eating after 7:00 p.m.” commitment. This will be sacrificial for me as I’ve gotten into a habit of telling myself I need something to eat before I go to bed.
Cheryl, this is BRILLANT! I love how you’re starting at 8pm and then gently working your way back!
Last night was the first night I focused on stopping mindless eating in the evening. I still popped something in my mouth at 8:20 and immediately thought of what else I could eat before bed. Then I said what about your intentional desire to change this bad habit. This will be a challenge and will be sacrificial, but it was also an eye-opener last night to how I’m relying on food for comfort rather than the God and his word.
I developed a binge eating disorder BECAUSE I fasted. I was normal weight, never had issues with food. I’m a radical for Jesus so I did a few extremely lengthy fasts (like 21-40 day fasts) and regularly did 3-7 day fasts.
But then during my eating days I started stuffing myself. And i couldn’t stop.
So i stopped fasting because I knew that was what triggered it.
And so i gained weight.
And now i cant lose it.
And i cant fast either because that makes binging worse.
I feel so hurt because I genuinely love Jesus so much and I fasted because I wanted more of him. But all i got was an eating disorder.
Im so insecure about my weight now. All i want is to be normal weight again.
But every attempt to lose it even slowly doesnt work. Because if i even have a thought of restricting anything I cant do it.
And i absolutely hate working out with a passion. The only sports i enjoy are too expensive to participate it at the moment. So I feel so stuck.
I dont want to hear the typical ‘accept yourself for who you are you’re beautiful every way’ stuff. Let me just say that doesnt help. I accept myself for who i am but i want to feel confident in my own body again. I dont want to feel belly fat every time i sit down, or see how my bum sticks out so noticeably when i wear anything formfitting (all my weight goes there). I dont want to look at pictures of myself and see chubby cheeks when they used to be defined.
It hurts so much that all i wanted was jesus, but all i got was an eating disorder.
Hi Mel! Thanks for sharing a bit of your story. I love the passion you have for Jesus and how “all in” you were for Him! That’s a lot of fasting and I can see why it would trigger some “gasping” for food. Hindsight is 20/20. You did your best but the outcome was not what you were hoping for and, for that, I am sorry.
Not to make it all about me but I’m in a similar position and my perspective may help. About 2 years ago I was having some physical issues that I’d sought help from my doctor. He got to the end of his solutions so I started looking online (like any good blogger would do). I came across a dietician who seemed she could help. She had me keep a food record and, after reviewing them, assured me that my issues were because I was under-eating. She put me on a higher calorie diet and I gained 20 pounds in 2 months. Crazy! My weight kept creeping up and I wasn’t feeling any better so I pulled the plug on it. It devastated me because I felt so good that I put my health before my body image. I thought God would be proud and look what happened…
I’m back to my “normal” eating but the weight hasn’t budged.
I was frustrated that God allowed this but I’ve found great comfort in knowing that He does EVERYTHING with my ETERNAL state in mind. My dislike of my body is only because I’m measuring it against a worldly standard. If we lived 200 years ago, our bodies would be celebrated 😉
http://gracefilledplate.com/i-gained-weight/
There is nothing we can do to change the past but we can still focus on glorifying God in our eating!
See if you can let go of the restrictive thoughts as that is what is going to trigger overeating. Then, you can start to settle into listening to your hunger and fullness some more!
I know that I CAN lose the weight if I adjust my portion sizes a bit, I’ve just not been willing to do it… yet. And, that’s ok.
I hope it helps to know that you’re not alone.
Thank you for this! I changed my eating significantly just over three years ago after being diagnosed with cancer. I switched to completely a plant-based, whole food diet. I lost lots of weight and felt great physically. But it was hard to live in the real world (gatherings, entertaining, dining out, etc.) eating like that. I kept at it while my fear of the cancer returning was high. Now that my fear level has subsided (three years cancer free), I feel like I’m out of control again. I mostly eat healthy stuff but lots and lots of it. And I’ve added in some junk food as well. Because I graze all the time, I rarely am hungry enough to enjoy food when I eat it. So, my starting fast plan is to eat only at the table focusing on and enjoying what I’m eating rather than eating distractedly while surfing on my iPad, reading or watching television. If I’m not hungry enough to want to sit at the table, I guess I’m not hungry enough. Your program gives me hope of not feeling controlled by food.
Praise God for your healing, Connie! I love the plan that you’ve come up with– it will allow you to enjoy food while also working on the fruit of self-control. And, it’s totally fine to include a little “junk” food in those meals too as that will keep it from grabbing a hold of you. Also, keep in mind that doing all of this may feel like too much and, if it does, it’s ok to start with certain hours of the day 🙂
I’ve tried fasting before and it was hard! But I’m going to try again with a more spiritual purpose for doing so as well as starting small. My first fast will be from sugary drinks!
Sounds like a “sweet” place to start 🙂
I have been fasting somewhat for about 6 months loosely doing approx one meal day 4/20hr split. Eating only between the hours of 4-8pm, with an exception of a protein powder added to my coffee along with some half & half in the morning at the request of my dietician. This has not resulted an any weightless, but has enabled me not to have to think and worry about food as much and had simplified the grocery shopping to focusing only on the nightly meal and my husband’s extras. It only get frustrating when he gets into buying himself desserts and treats (because he actually does the grocery shopping) and forgets to get me healthy alternatives or anything special for me. But making this fasting more prayerful and mindful of my Lord, as well as, being more intentional in my meal, perhaps being reminded of my Father’s Grace, might eventually bring the scale into my favor with my fast.
I love how you’re focused on more than the scale, Teresa! Sounds like your husband needs a shopping list with a big bold red-markered “healthy treats” on it 😉
Hi. We are in the middle of the COVID pandemic and in New Zealand our full scale lockdown is slowy lifting.
Over the last 8 weeks I’ve been having a glass or six of wine every night. Both my father and my brother were alcoholics, so yes i know… Wine is also my weekness, not only for drinking to much, but then also, the more i drink the more i eat. (This sounds even more horrific saying it out loud)
So from last night, no more wine for me – aiming for at least 3 months.
Thank you for sharing these tips.
And thank you for giving me a means to grow closer to God.
Such a crazy season of life we are in, isn’t it, Jolinda? The pressure and stress reveal a lot and I love how you’re using what you’re leaning as fuel to change 🙂
I’m doing a time fast. I’m fasting from 2-4 pm today. 🙂
Awesome, Lenora! I hope it went great!
This is a great idea for fasting. Taking something in small pieces seems more doable. One of my hard times is when I’m watching TV late evening and get hungry. I’ll eat even if it’s healthy and filling and go back for more. I am choosing for my fast to shut off the TV when I want to eat, leave the room and have some special time with the Lord being grateful for all the good things in the day. Then I will have my healthy snack, read and go to bed. (I need something late evening because I stay up late and otherwise can’t sleep)
This is such a win-win, Sally! Great plan!
What a great blog! I love the thought of fasting from habits. I tend to have a habit of snacking at work, and drinking soda when I’m tired, bored, stressed, happy…basically any emotion! I am going to fast from soda, and from eating without a plate. I love that idea! My work snacking tends to be from a bag, or my hand, so only eating from a plate (or bowl) makes sense to me.
Fantastic ideas, Jodi!
This makes so much sense. Weight loss is difficult and requires sacrificing the unhealthy foods that are just sabotaging my health. But it’s hard when my brain says I want it over and over! I hope if focus on my discomfort as a cue to communicate with God and remember my relationship with him and lean on his strength it will be so much better than just struggling through it. My evenings are my toughest time and I have tried over and over to stop eating in the evening, now I will use those struggles and cravings at night to help me remember to pray and lean on His strength.
Love it, Jen! Yes, there are times of discomfort but also remember that food is a gift from God and it’s ok to enjoy things that taste good and even foods that aren’t “healthy” with His guidance and the green light of the peace of the Holy Spirit.
This post may help too! https://gracefilledplate.com/stop-overeating-night/
I am going to eat 3 meals. No snacking and no eating after dinner.
Carole
Sounds like a great plan, Carole! One thing that has been helpful in working with clients is to have a fruit and veggie (or another light snack) allowance between meals if you get truly hungry. That way, there’s no panic eating at meals trying to get it all in because we “can’t” eat for a while.
I am an obsessive snacker late in the evening. That will STOP tonight in the name of the Lord!
I’ll keep you posted on how that goes. It will be a great challenge that I am willing to under-
take. Very scary!
Great plan, Emma! Remember that you can take it s-l-o-w-l-y…doing a window of time at night is a great start too 🙂
I like this idea, Brandice. What’s makes it even more exciting is that it’s doable. 🙂 . I am going it out …tomorrow.
So glad to hear that it resonated with you, Joan! Please let me know how it goes 🙂
Brandice this post has been such a blessing…your whole site really but this in particular. Its something that isn’t spoken about so you feel so alone fearing a fast…yet knowing it as significant. Im in a season of feeling out of control and consumed with food thoughts, constant over eating after years of doing well, so now feeling like God isn’t answering my prayers for help and answers despite calling on Him again and again. I knew your site…I just had to actually delve deep and read it. This gives me a whole different frame of mind to come from and I just wanted to say thank you for being faithful. Thank you for sharing your weaknesses to help those and glorify God. Im a health care worker in Australia and constant snacking on shift work is becoming a huge blow out point for me and also eating after dinner. I know my mindset will change with smaller chunks at a time. I will be not eating after 7pm when I’m not on shift and trying to take fruit as snacks until I get my meal breaks on shift. I may had to adapt the shift work as some shifts our breaks are at the 11th hour of a 12 hour shift. But I know God will guide that as I give Him the time and allow the Holy spirit to guide me (also a big struggle)
But He is faithful and I can trust Him ❤
Thank you again
So glad you dove in, Claire! These are challenging times, especially for healthcare workers. I love your fast. One thing to keep in mind with the “don’t eat after 7pm” guideline, is that we can find ourselves overeating at the prior meal for fear of not getting to eat again. Consider having a back-up plan such as, “but, if I get hungry, I will have an apple” or something like that 🙂
How would a fast look if my issue is always thinking about food and anxiety around food, all in fear of being fat and trying to control it all.
Hi Michelle, this 21-day challenge could be a big help: https://gracefilledplate.com/christian-weight-loss-affirmations/ There’s also a great free toolkit here: https://gracefilledplate.com/want-to-be-skinny/
How would I fast from the thoughts of what to eat that don’t stop, trying to make it all work out to eat decent and work around dinner plans or a event. Doing this in order to not gain weight, this is 24/7
Wowza! I’ve just finished reading Fasting, and gotta say, it packs a punch! I’m feeling inspired and hopeful. Going to reread now, slowly. Beautifully laid out, Brandice.
That’s the power of God’s Word right there 😀 Glad you found it helpful!
Thanks, Brandice. My first fasting plan is to only allow myself ONE serving of a healthy snack after dinner. We eat dinner early, so this will be a challenge for me. My goal is to reach for my Bible or written out Bible verses if I have the strong desire to reach for more food after dinner.
That’s a great plan, Tammy! Severa other ladies have found it helpful to “allow” fruits and veggies if you find yourself truly hungry. It’s less about the eating and more about the reassurance that the food is there if you need it 🙂
I am reading Healthy Living Series, 7 Steps to Getting off Sugar and Carbohydrates. Susan U. Neal, author suggests finding a support group. I’m grateful for this suggestion and information I have obtained in reading the first 3 lessons you provided. My thoughts of fasting were ALWAYS “black and white” ‘ all or nothing” regarding food. Now, taking a baby step by fasting from one, JUST ONE of my triggers is a great way to incorporate the suggestions you shared. I am very addicted to SUGAR, so I am committing to refraining from sugar foods today
I love how we each can hear from the Lord individually and follow His direction as He knows us best! Glad this was helpful, Barbara!
I have a hard time eating and eating between 2-4p and 7-10p.
I am going to try to look to God for help in not eating in those time, maybe jump in the treadmill instead😊
Can you start with an hour, Christina? That’s a BIG stretch there and it’s best to start easy and build from there 🙂
As I have been reading and studying, I am trying to release the diet mentality. While I see the purpose of fasting, it also is very scary. I know one of the issues I have with food is when I feel restricted, I go into panic mode and binge on what I “say” I can’t have. How can I fast and not fall into the trap of the panic and fear of restriction that leads me to binge eating? Is moderating enough to be considered fasting or is it all or nothing?
I received this message on Ash Wednesday..a day known for fasting & prayer…which often gives me a sense of dread. (Oh no! I got to fast. Ugh!) However…This message makes me excited about fasting! (Lol!) My mini fasts will be waiting on true hunger and avoid head hunger. I’m going to try to hold out till I receive real hunger pangs. My hope is I’ll feel more “satisfied” when I relieve my hunger with eating. Then I’d also like to leave a bite or two on my plate. When I’ve left bites on my plate in the past, it gave me a sense of self control. I didn’t feel controlled by the food. I hope that makes sense! If I clean my plate just because..I’m more likely to pick at the leftovers. Thank you for a very inspiring message!!
Praise God for His peace in this, Kelley!
I’ve recently started following along in your course, but this is the first time I’ve commented. I am truly enjoying what you share, and I am already gleaning from Chew the Word (just finished day 2.
Fasting is not a biblical topic that I’ve studied much. My church doesn’t do a church-wide fast, but I have done 2 in my life when interceding for something major. I appreciate the information you’ve shared.
One area of big “comfort” for me is eating out. How many times have I made a meal plan for the week, only to get to dinner and feel too tired to cook…let alone clean up the mess! I’m not sure how I will I corporate this into a fast, that will take a little more thought on my end…but I wanted to share 🙂 thanks!
That’s a great idea, Amanda! That’s where He can be strength in your weakness 🙂
This is so helpful! I love fasting, but I’ve been making it too hard. I love the idea of doing this in bite-sized steps and fasting one food habit at a time, especially considering the principle of sowing seeds of faith that the Bible teaches. I’ve been praying for God to show me how to get free of the cycle of diets and overeating, and this is the best thing I’ve read that really speaks to my heart. Thank you for sharing this!
I am so glad this spoke to you, Susan and that you found it helpful. Keep taking it one step at a time!!
I really like the idea of picking the top 3 things that are difficult to fast from and starting from there. I know what the top three of many difficult areas of food habits are and starting from there. I want to start with the one that is most difficult for me and really challenge myself to commit to it. I like where you said getting on our knees and toes will help us with committing it over to the Lord. Thank you for showing me this first step in learning how to fast.
Challenging but also doable 😉 Praying for you now, Linda!
Fasting has always seemed so intimidating to me. I’ve tried it but been miserable the whole time and felt guilty that my motivation was not spiritual. I love this idea of fasting one thing. It is in compliance with riding ourselves of that “all or nothing” attitude. My biggest downfall is sitting in front of the tv and mindlessly eating so I am going to start with that!
So glad to hear that this resonates with you, Jill! I think you’ll love it 🙂
My biggest thing I struggle with is overeating. I have done intuitive eating in the past but can’t seem to make myself focus enough to stop when full. I plan on fasting overeating. I don’t particularly have problems with long term fasts (I have done a couple of 24-hour fasts) except finding the time to do it. I am also going to fast snacks in between meals.
That’s a great start, Melissa! Focus on ONE LITTLE THING at a time and sort of sneak up on that overeating so that it won’t know what hit it, lol. Consider a two-pronged approach of also finding new coping skills that you can transfer to from overeating. When and why do you tend to turn to more food and is there something you could do to fill those needs?
I struggle with sweets and allowing myself to have sweets and desserts … even if I am not hungry. I want to fast from extras … any eating outside of hunger / satisfaction. So that will include night / evening eating after supper, and snacking when not hungry.
Awesome, Lindsay! I love that goal but can we make that the goal? Meaning, I’d not expect you to get there overnight. Maybe you start with doing fruit for that nighttime snack or focus on hunger/fullness for one window of time a day and then branch out. Set yourself up for success by choosing a habit you feel confident you can nail 🙂
I’m a RNY Bariatric Surgery patient, and I struggle with food cues, overeating, and emotional/stress eating. I’m going to fast the last few bites of each meal when I start to feel satiated. I’m also going to fast in-between meals, and eat my snacks from plates. Thanks so much for the information and encouragement!
You’re welcome, Jenna! Remember that it’s ok (and even better) to just start with ONE Of those ideas and then add one at a time. It’s far better to set yourself up for success so that you can grow confidence in your ability to change (with God!).
Oh ok! I’ll start with working on overeating first. My surgery dietician really wants me to focus on fullness cues and intuitive eating, so that will probably be the best place to start. I’m also reading your blog on tithing bites, and feel that can help me alot!
This is amazing and very helpful advice. Thank you!
So glad you found it helpful, Theodora!
EXCELLENT blog! I honestly didn’t want to read it at first because I work with someone who intermittent fasts and tries to get everyone to do it.
Sugar is my weakness. I’m actually dog sitting for my daughter and son-in-law at their house — they have Oreos and other sweet snacks available. I tried eating just one or two and it was NOT good. So I’m going to fast from sugar and eating seconds at first. From there I will go to not finishing what’s on my plate and save what’s left for another meal.
Glad this came at the right time, Pat! Being in a house, alone with foods you don’t normally have at your home is not easy. Consider boxing things up and putting them in a closet until they return. That just makes it easier. See if you can focus on ONE new habit at a time. I know it’s easy to want to do it all but little changes are sustainable and they stick 🙂
I commit to fast from snacks (food) between lunch and supper. I can have a dessert if it is with my lunch but no snacks afterward.
I love the gentleness of that, Lisa! It’s a great way to get going 🙂
I’m going to fast from the vending machine where I live. It’s my after dinner treat (dessert).
Time with the Lord before bed will be much more fulfilling! I believe I will sleep better too.
That’s really powerful, Carol! Praying now that you feel His presence in that time!
Great post. My husband fasts spiritually about 3 days a month. I dread it and don’t do it. But since I read this and gave serious thought I can do something and give it to the Lord. As of today I am going to fast food between meals. I get snacky and go for huge handfuls of nuts or crackers and cheese. Then if I have to run an errand I will grab sweets and the store and hide and eat them in my home office. I pray this changes my life around food. Thank you
Love it, Kathy! Finding something that works for you is KEY. This way, you can be a joyful giver which the Lord loves 🙂
My most challenging times lately are the nights my husband is at work, and I feel free to do what I want: which pretty much has been to watch TV and graze from one snack to another. I can use that time much better! I will focus on eating a healthy meal, and fast from junk food snacking. It’s a start!
That’s an EXCELLENT start, Jonna!
I have chosen to leave 3 bites of my meal. I actually do Intermittent fasting fairly regularly, but tend to overeat during the meals I do eat. So I’ve decided leaving those 3 bites is a good start. Thank you for this information. Since menopause I have really struggled with losing weight. And have Had difficulties keeping it off when I do prior. I know focusing on the Lord will help so much!
Sounds like a great plan, Cindy!
Amazing and simple…it’s Ash Wednesday, 2023, a great time to focus on giving up something to spend time with God. Outside of the food area, I am giving up ‘games’ on my phone and instead reading my bible. Foodwise, I really do like the ‘small, but mighty’ idea. I am going to focus on God time before supper. From that I will draw on the strength to eat only what my body needs.
That sounds like a great plan, Nancy!
Fasting from “popables” popping food in my mouth when I walk by the candy jar or prep meals. Only eating what’s on my plate.
Love it, Jamie! This used to be a HUGE issue for me so may I share a bit of unsolicited advice? This isn’t a quick habit to change so give yourself a ton of grace and start fresh as often as you need. Even if you remember after the fact, don’t sweat it and just remind yourself of why you want to do this habit and try again next time 🙂