Introduction
Fasting is a key Christian discipline that Jesus practiced and assumed His disciple practiced too . Discussed below is my original understanding of fasting and research into the contributions of a significant Christian figure to this discipline, as well as comparing the view of fasting between two denominations. A description of different experiences between individual, group and corporate fasting is also discussed. An examination of my original understanding of fasting is discussed considering the research into fasting and ideas put forward to encourage one another in the discipline of fasting.
Summarise your original understanding of the discipline before the course started
My original understanding of fasting was a time to abstain from food or drink (or other distractions) and to spend that time with God. I understood that fasting is a discipline which helps me to hear God’s voice clearer and I
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In one particular occasion it is noted Daniel does not conduct a full fast but completes what is commonly known as a ‘Daniel Fast’ . Daniel abstains from ‘pleasant and desirable food’ for 21 days to seek understanding for a vision he received from God.
This fast indicates there is a time for fasting particular foods or distractions, as opposed to fasting from all food. This may be due to the need to keep up your strength; avoid drawing attention to your fast; or remove a particular attachment or craving (example: chocolate, TV) to focus on God.
This particular fast also draws our attention back to the focus of the fasting discipline, which is not the action or absence of food but rather the attitude of laying ourselves and our cravings down and shifting our focus onto God.
Compare at least one other denomination’s understanding of this