Can you explain "fasting" and how/why it helps prayers?

This is something that in my many years as a Christian I really don't understand. I see being a "clean vessel"... but if you're having hunger pangs and thinking about how hungry you are... well, you understand my question, I am sure.

Hope it's not asking too much...

I see that you fast and pray on Wednesdays. Is it okay to just pray?

I'm sure others will come here and give some more explanations to your question. Here is a good site that explains fasting (and even includes testimonies). I sure hope it helps. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />

Restore Ministiries - Fasting

Fasting is not something you "have" to do. It's ok to just pray, if that's what you want. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />

<small>[ March 02, 2004, 09:01 PM: Message edited by: hopeful98 ]</small>

That article *was* interesting and helpful. Thank you. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />

Hey, sister chick!

In Judaism, we have several days throughout the year that are "fast and pray" days. We fast on those days so that our minds are purely dedicated to thinking about God and our prayers. We also fast as a reminder that we control our appetites (ALL appetites--not just food), not the other way around. Every Wednesday when I fast, I remind myself that if I can say no to food, I can say no to other things that are just temptations and not necessities to live (know what I mean? <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="images/icons/wink.gif" /> )

However, God is not immune to our humanity, so "the rules" are that if you are too young or too old or have a medical condition that would harm you to be without food, then you are commanded to eat even on fast days. For example, if a diabetic were to fast, it could kill them. So, young children would just be too cranky...older folks might get high blood pressure or get lightheaded, etc. Otherwise, if you are strong and healthy, the desire of God is for ya to fast.

This is just my own interpretation of it, but on our weekly fast and pray day, I don't eat solid food but I do drink orange juice to keep my blood sugar high. For the most part, I feel physically strong with the OJ, but I do feel some hunger and God knows I don't need the extra food! <img border="0" title="" alt="[Big Grin]" src="images/icons/grin.gif" />


CJ

CJ, my friend, THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!

(((((CJ)))))

I will pray on this... I have never truly understood it, and don't want to "use" it to try losing weight (which is the first thing I thought when I read about it). My head/heart needs to be in the right place.

Again, thank you!