Living A Fasted Lifestyle

LIVING A FASTED LIFESTYLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 6:16-18

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 58:6-11, Luke 2:36-37, Joel 2:12, 1 Corinthians 9:27, Acts 13:2-3

INTRODUCTION:

Fasting is more than an occasional religious exercise; it is a spiritual discipline that can become a lifestyle. A fasted lifestyle means living in a way that consistently prioritises spiritual things above the desires of the flesh. It is not merely abstaining from food, but a deliberate setting aside of carnal appetites in order to seek God’s face and remain in His will.

Many Christians fast occasionally, often only when they are in trouble or facing challenges. However, a believer who lives a fasted life experiences continuous intimacy with God, sustained power, spiritual authority, and greater clarity of purpose. Jesus fasted regularly and expected His followers to do the same—not just during crises, but as part of their spiritual routine.

To live a fasted lifestyle is to embrace a higher walk with God. It is a call to discipline, consecration, and hunger for more of Him. Let us now examine what it takes to live this kind of life.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE PURPOSE OF A FASTED LIFE

A fasted lifestyle is rooted in a deep desire to walk in the Spirit and please God.

a) To Seek Intimacy with God (Joel 2:12–13)

Fasting draws us into deeper communion with God, quieting the flesh so we can hear Him more clearly.

b) To Subdue the Flesh (1 Corinthians 9:27)

It disciplines our bodies and helps us resist sin, temptation, and spiritual distractions.

c) To Stay Spiritually Sensitive (Acts 13:2)

Fasting sharpens our discernment and keeps us aligned with divine instructions.

d) To Walk in Continuous Power (Matthew 17:21)

A fasted life keeps us spiritually charged, able to confront difficult battles and operate in the supernatural.

Biblical Example: Anna the prophetess served God with fastings and prayers daily, and she experienced divine revelation (Luke 2:36–37).

2. CHARACTERISTICS OF A FASTED LIFESTYLE

There are visible spiritual traits in someone who lives a fasted life.

a) Consistency in Prayer and Fasting (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

This person doesn’t wait for a church programme—they are constantly pressing into God.

b) Deliberate Consecration (Romans 12:1–2)

Their choices reflect a life set apart for God—spirit, soul, and body.

c) Simplicity and Self-Denial (Philippians 4:11–13)

They have learned to say no to unnecessary pleasures that weaken spiritual strength.

d) Focus on Eternal Things (Colossians 3:1–2)

Their desires are fixed on pleasing God, not on worldly pursuits.

Biblical Example: Paul lived a disciplined, fasted life, bringing his body under subjection to fulfil his calling (1 Corinthians 9:27).

3. BENEFITS OF LIVING A FASTED LIFE

God rewards those who walk closely with Him through consistent fasting and consecration.

a) Greater Anointing and Power (Luke 4:14)

Fasting sharpens your spirit and releases fresh grace for your assignment.

b) Answered Prayers and Breakthroughs (Isaiah 58:6–9)

Persistent fasting attracts divine intervention and deliverance.

c) Divine Guidance and Revelation (Daniel 9:3, 20–23)

God opens your eyes to hidden things when you consistently seek Him.

d) Spiritual Protection and Authority (Mark 9:29)

A fasted life gives you authority over dark forces and strongholds.

Biblical Example: The early church fasted regularly, and God gave them direction and power (Acts 13:2–3).

4. HOW TO DEVELOP A FASTED LIFESTYLE

This lifestyle is cultivated by intentional habits and spiritual discipline.

a) Schedule Regular Fasting Days (Luke 5:35)

Plan weekly or monthly fasts to maintain spiritual momentum.

b) Maintain a Strong Prayer Life (Ephesians 6:18)

Fasting without prayer is a hunger strike—keep prayer as your foundation.

c) Feed on the Word During Fasts (Job 23:12)

God’s Word strengthens your inner man and directs your fasting efforts.

d) Avoid Legalism—Be Led by the Spirit (Romans 8:14)

It’s not about rules but relationship; let the Spirit guide your fasts.

Biblical Example: Jesus lived in tune with the Father and fasted as the Spirit led Him (Matthew 4:1–2).

CONCLUSION:

Fasting is not just a tool to solve problems; it is a pathway to spiritual growth and deeper intimacy with God. A fasted lifestyle keeps you spiritually alive, constantly in tune with Heaven, and ready to do exploits for God. In a world of distractions and spiritual compromise, only those who live disciplined, fasted lives will experience sustained revival and power.

Let fasting become part of your life, not just an emergency measure. As you commit to this lifestyle, God will release more of His presence, power, and glory in your life.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, give me grace to cultivate a fasted lifestyle.

2. Father, help me to walk in daily consecration and discipline.

3. Let my spiritual hunger increase beyond the appetite of the flesh.

4. I receive divine strength for regular prayer and fasting.

5. Lord, make me a vessel of Your power and fire.

6. Keep me from distractions that weaken spiritual focus.