Prayer and Fasting

[fe32k]

Sorry if this has been discussed, but what is this site's stand on Fasting? I have not been able to find anything on the subject in this website. Generally I know that Ray states that nothing physical can benefit you spiritually, but fasting is obviously taught by Jesus and practiced by the apostles. Again, this is a physical act which has spiritual benefits. And if this is a physical practice with spiritual benefits then what does it say about baptism and the Lord's supper which were both practiced by the early church? Or do they not compare? Thanks everyone in advance.

In Christ,
Roy

[gedeon]

I am new to this site also but I still believe as you do fasting, Lords supper, and baptism all are physical but have spiritual  meaning. I dont know what anyone else feels on this site also   Debbie

[sansmile]

Hello all,

This was an answer to a letter that Ray gave on fasting,

Hi, Ray,
I wondered where you stood on fasting.  I find that it doesn't usually make that much difference to the outcome of my prayers, but some people say you've got to pay the price to get answers from God, and personal suffering is one of the strongest proofs that you mean business with Jesus.  I'm wrestling with a big problem and somebody indicated that I won't get my miracle unless I fast for it. Isn't that attitude a litte like the priests of Baal who tried to pay their god for his favor by slashing themselves with knives?
   
    Have a great day!  Patricia


    Dear Patricia;

    I hear TV preachers talk about how they fasted or how that they just finished a 2-day, 5-day, two-week fast. 'Me thinks' however, that they lie. And even if they aren't lying, they just lost any benefit by telling the whole world about it.

    Fasting (without food or water) may be benefical to draw closer to God.  It may even be beneficial for health. But I do not believe that it will CAUSE God to do whatever it is that you have need of.

    Jesus tells us that His words are "SPIRIT" (John 6:63).  And here is a portion of Scripture which speaks to the subject of "spiritual fasting"--"...Is not THIS the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?...." (Isa. 6-11).

    Hope this helps you,

    God be with you,

    Ray


Hope this helps, God Bless You

Sandie