10 Things to Avoid When Fasting and Praying

Knowing the things to avoid when fasting and praying will make your prayer effective and your fast will produce the desired result. 

Most people know the benefits of fasting and praying. When these two spiritual disciplines are combined, they can produce powerful results with the help of the Holy Spirit. But, some things should be avoided when fasting and praying. In this blog post, we will discuss the things to avoid when fasting and praying. We will also introduce fasting and praying so everyone can understand their importance. 

Why Learn about the Things to Avoid when Fasting and Praying

You are cleaning your mind, body, and soul when you fast. This can be an effective spiritual exercise that helps to improve your relationship with Jesus Christ. Yet, knowing what to avoid while fasting is essential to make the most of this time is critical. 

For example, you should drink water and avoid drinking alcohol, as it will dehydrate you and make it difficult to focus on your prayers. You should also avoid overeating food. This can make you feel sluggish and prevent you from getting the full benefit of the fast. 

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your fasting experience is positive.

Brief Introduction to Fasting and Praying

Most Christians are familiar with the practice of fasting and prayer. But many don’t understand its purpose or how to do it. Fasting goes without food for some time, usually for spiritual purposes. 

When we fast, we abstain from something good to focus on God. Prayer is talking to God; it’s our way of communicating with Him. We can pray anywhere, anytime. Fasting and prayer often go hand-in-hand. When we deny ourselves food, we remind ourselves that we need God more than we need anything else. 

What are fasting and praying?

Fasting generally means abstaining from food for a set period. But, it can also be done for other reasons, such as for medical purposes. People who are fasting may also choose to pray at the same time. This can involve focusing on God, which may be done alone or in a group setting. 

For many people, fasting and praying is a way to connect more with their faith. It can also be seen as a form of self-discipline or self-denial. Some people believe that abstaining from food helps them to focus more on their prayer and connect more deeply with God. 

Others see it as a way to purify themselves or test their faith. For this reason, fasting and praying are practices that people worldwide have carried out for centuries.

When praying, it is essential to have a set of prayer points. These prayer points will help you stay focused on our Lord Jesus Christ. Imagine spending time fasting and praying, focused on God and His plans for you. It will bring your relationship with God to another level.

Importance of Fasting

For Christians, fasting and praying are essential spiritual practices as we commune with the Holy Ghost. By abstaining from food and drink, Christians can focus on their relationship with God. When fasting, Christians can reflect on their daily lives and consider how they can improve their relationship with God. 

Additionally, fasting can help Christians to develop self-control and discipline. By denying themselves the pleasure of food and drink, Christians can learn how to control their desires and better resist temptation. 

Finally, fasting is a way for Christians to show humility before God. By going without food and drink, Christians demonstrate their reliance on God and their need for His strength and power. 

In conclusion, fasting is a vital part of the Christian faith that can help believers to grow closer to God.

Types of Fast

Though fasting isn’t unique to the Christian faith, it is an integral part of many denominations. Christians may fast for a variety of reasons, including spiritual growth, repentance, and as a form of worship. 

There are also different types of fasts, from total abstinence from food and drink to limiting oneself to only certain types of food. Some Christians may even choose to give up other activities, such as days spent watching TV or social media, for the duration of the fast. 

No matter the reason or fast, the act of self-denial can help to create a more meaningful connection with God.

Full Fast

A complete fast is a period, typically around 24 hours, where a person abstains from all food and drink. The purpose of a complete Christian fast is to focus on prayer and spending time with God without the distractions of daily life. 

Christian fasting is based on the practice of biblical figures like Moses, who fasted for 40 days when he received the Ten Commandments from God. In the New Testament, Jesus also undertook a 40-day fast before beginning His public ministry. 

Partial fast

A partial fast is one in which people limit their food intake in some way but do not eliminate all food. For example, some may choose to give up a specific type of food for the duration of the fast, such as sweets or fried foods. 

Others may reduce the food they eat daily or only during certain hours. Fasting is often accompanied by prayer and Bible study to deepen one’s relationship with God. Partial fasting can effectively focus on spiritual matters without completely disrupting one’s daily life. 

However, it is essential to consult with a doctor before fasting, as it can be dangerous for some people. Though, partial fasting can be a valuable spiritual practice when done correctly.

Daniel Fast

The Daniel Fast is a biblically based partial fast that asks us to give up food for a specific period to focus on prayer and seeking God’s face. 

It’s based on the story of the prophet Daniel who, during his exile in Babylon, refused to eat the king’s food and instead chose to eat only vegetables and drink only water (Daniel 1:12). 

The Daniel Fast is similar in that it asks us to give up certain foods for some time to focus on our relationship with God. While there are many different ways to fast, the Daniel Fast is unique because it requires us to give up meat, sweets, and bread or whole grains. 

This cannot be easy, but it’s also gratifying. As we discipline our bodies and restrict our diets, we open ourselves up to God in new ways and discover deeper intimacy with Him. 

If you’re thinking about undertaking a Daniel Fast, know that it will be difficult at times, but it will also be an emotional experience. Seek God with all your heart, and He will surely meet you in the midst of your fast.

Lent Fast

Many Christians observe Lent, a period of fasting and contemplation that begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts for 40 days (not counting Sundays). 

The purpose of Lent is to prepare believers for Easter, the day Jesus Christ rose from the dead. Some Christians give up a particular vice or bad habit for the duration of Lent, while others choose to fast from food or other worldly pleasures. Still, others use Lent as a time to focus on prayer and self-examination. 

Whatever form it takes, the Lenten fast is meant to be a time of spiritual discipline and growth. By observing a fast during this holy season, Christians hope to develop a greater understanding of and appreciation for the sacrifice Jesus made for them.

10 Things to Avoid When Fasting and Praying

The Sin Of Fornication And Adultery

While fasting and praying, you’re committing to God to avoid certain things to focus on your relationship with Him. Fornication and adultery are two things to avoid when fasting and praying during this time. 

This means abstaining from sexual activity outside of marriage. It’s essential to avoid this because it’s a form of disrespect to God, and it can also be a distraction from your prayer life. 

Additionally, fornication and adultery are sins that can damage your relationship with God. If you’re struggling with this, talk to a trusted friend or spiritual advisor who can help you through the process of fasting and praying.

Vulgarity and Garrulousness

There are a few things to avoid when fasting and praying: Vulgarity and Garrulousness. 

Vulgarity is defined as using offensive or indecent language, and it’s something you want to avoid while engaging in such a pure activity. Conversely, garrulousness is excessive talking or chatting – again, not conducive to a severe fast. 

So, keep things respectful and quiet to get the most out of your prayer and fasting experience. This will create a more positive and adequate space for everyone involved. 

Social Media

You are avoiding anything that might distract you from your connection with God when fasting and praying are essential. For many people, that means staying away from social media. 

After all, getting caught up in the latest drama or news cycle is easy, scrolling through your feed for hours. But social media can be a significant distraction when focusing on your relationship with God. 

Not only does it take up time that you could be spending in prayer, but it also pulls your attention away from God and towards the world, just like being in crowded and public places.

If you want to make the most of your fast, it’s best to avoid other social media platforms altogether. Instead, use that time to focus on God, and you’ll be sure to deepen your relationship with Him.

Hypocrisy and Moodiness

There are a few things to avoid when fasting and praying. First, beware of hypocrisy. It’s easy to put on a show when you’re around other people, but true fasting and prayer require humility and sincerity that can only come from being honest with yourself and God. 

Second, be aware of your mood. Fasting can sometimes make us irritable or short-tempered, so it’s essential to be patient with yourself and those around you. 

Remember that fasting is to draw closer to God, not create problems in your relationships. If you can avoid these two traps, you’ll find that fasting and prayer can be a rich and rewarding experience.

Gossiping

It’s important to note things to avoid when fasting and praying that might distract you from your spiritual practice. That means no gossiping! 

Gossiping can be tempting, especially when you’re restless or bored, but resisting the urge is essential. Gossiping only leads to drama and conflict, neither conducive to a meaningful spiritual experience. 

If you gossip, take a step back and refocus on your prayer or meditation. Remember why you’re fasting and praying first, and let that be your guide.

Pride and Anger

When you fast, it is essential to avoid pride and anger. Pride can cause you to think you are better than others and that you don’t need God. Irritation can cause you to lash out at others and not focus on your relationship with God. 

If you feel proud or angry, take a step back and remember why you are fasting. Fasting is about humility and seeking a closer relationship with God. It is not about trying to impress others or prove something to yourself. Let go of your pride and anger, and open yourself to God’s love.

Unforgiveness

You enter a particular time of communion with God when you fast and pray. This is not a time to focus on your desires or grievances but to humble yourself before God and listen to His voice. 

One of the quickest ways to kill the spirit of fasting and prayer is to allow unforgiveness to take root in your heart. When you foster an attitude of unforgiveness, you open yourself up to spiritual attacks. 

Unforgiveness prevents you from hearing from God clearly, as it creates static on the spiritual frequency. If you want to make the most of your fast and prayer time, then release any unforgiveness in your heart and let go of anything weighing you down. You will be amazed at how much clearer God’s voice will become when you do.

Inappropriate Content

When you fast and pray, you’re asking God to work in your life in a particular way. You’re setting aside time to focus on Him and hear His voice. As you do this, you must know what can potentially interfere with your time with God. One of these things is inappropriate content. 

This can be anything that’s pornographic, obscene, or otherwise offensive. It can also include harmful or violent media. Just as you wouldn’t want to bring offensive materials into your home, you also don’t want to allow them into your mind while you’re fasting and praying. 

Instead, take the opportunity to fill your mind with positive and uplifting content that will help you stay focused on God.

Doubting God

When you fast and pray, it’s essential to trust that God is listening and that He will answer your prayers. When we doubt God or His goodness can lead to discouragement and a feeling of futility. If you find yourself doubting, try to remember all the times God has been faithful in the past. Focusing on His past faithfulness can help to increase your faith and trust in Him. 

Additionally, try to surround yourself with people who have strong faith. Talking to them about their beliefs can help to remind you of God’s goodness and power. Finally, be patient when fasting and praying. Sometimes God’s answer may not be immediate, but that doesn’t mean He isn’t listening. Trust that He has a plan and continue to seek Him with a humble heart.

Bitterness and Resentment

It’s easy to feel bitter and resentful when we’re fasting and praying. We might be feeling deprived, or we might be angry at God for not answering our prayers the way we want. But avoiding these negative emotions is essential to make the most of our fasting and prayer experience. 

When we’re bitter and resentful, we’re not in the right frame of mind to receive God’s blessings. We’re also more likely to give up on our fast before seeing any results. So if you feel bitter or resentful during your fast, take a step back, refocus on your relationship with God, and ask for help from the Holy Spirit. Remember that He loves you and only wants what’s best for you. 

With that in mind, you can approach your fast with a renewed sense of hope and expectation.

In Summary

When it comes to fasting and prayer, there are a few things you’ll want to avoid if you want to make the most of your experience. First, be sure to avoid dehydrating yourself. Drinking plenty of water when fasting is essential, especially if you’re doing a dry fast. 

Second, avoid overindulging when you break your fast. It’s tempting to gorge yourself after not eating for a while, but eating in moderation is essential. You don’t want to make yourself sick! 

Lastly, avoid negative self-talk. 

Fasting can be challenging physically and mentally, but staying positive and focusing on your goals is essential. If you can avoid these pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to successful fasting and praying experience!