The first story we read about Jesus’ adult life is one where he fasts for 40 days and he battles with Satan in the desert. The early church continued this healthy rhythm by fasting twice a week for over a millennia. Yet, it is a spiritual practice that has fallen by the way side in our current generation. This morning we will look at why this may or may not be a helpful and healthy rhythm for you to begin practicing in your walk with Jesus.

Joel 2:12-13 (ESV)
“Yet even now,” declares the Lord,
    “return to me with all your heart,
with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning;
     and rend your hearts and not your garments.”
Return to the Lord your God,
    for he is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love;
    and he relents over disaster.

Matthew 6:16-18 (ESV)
“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you."