January 2023
Ah yes, fasting. The thing Christians should do on a regular basis, but many of us do not. Fasting is a denial of the flesh, a leaning into God, and a trust that we will come out spiritually stronger and more in tune to what the Holy Spirit is saying to us. Fasting for the most part isn’t fun because self-denial isn’t fun. However, it is necessary if we are going to walk closely with God and ensure that our relationship with Him continues to grow.
When was the last time you fasted? When was the last time you fasted with your spouse? Fasting with your spouse can truly bring your marriage to another level. It helps you focus on God and hear what He wants to say concerning the future and present state of your marriage. Fasting with your spouse also gives you the opportunity to be open enough for God to show you how you can become a better spouse and life partner. Read that again.
If you’ve never fasted with your spouse, or, it’s been a while, now is a great time to plan and execute. The beginning of the year is a great time to do this, as it can set your tone for the year. However, whenever you come across this post is no accident. Below you’ll find details about how to fast with your spouse.
- Determine how long you will fast. From there, plug specific dates including that length of time into your calendar. Examples include 7 days, 10 days, 21 days.
- Agree on the type of fast you will do. In the past we have done a Daniel Fast together, as well as a sunup, to sundown fast, where eat only one meal per day in the late afternoon or evening.
- Write down your goals. Be clear on the areas in which you need answers from God concerning your marriage. Find scriptures to support those goals.
- Pray! This is key. Fasting without intentional, consistent prayer, is just a fast. It is important that you spend less time on social media, less time doing mindless activities, and more time in prayer and in the Word of God. Carve out time to pray as individuals and time to pray as a couple.
- While you don’t have to fast do extended fasts together every single month, set times of the year where you will fast together and seek the face of God concerning your marriage.
Have you fasted with your spouse before? How did it go? We want to know!