E42: More Than a Diet: Understanding Fasting as a Pathway to Intimacy with the Holy Spirit

Fasting is a tool that can be used for continued spiritual growth when done with the right heart posture. In this episode, Eric Scovill sits down with Pastor Nathan Rychener as they dive deep into the biblical discipline of fasting - what it is, why we do it, and how to get started.  Whether you're new to fasting or want to take your spiritual life to the next level, this discussion is full of practical wisdom and encouragement. Give this episode a listen to learn more about how fasting can strengthen your walk with God.  Here are some topics from today’s discussion: Defining biblical fasting Jesus' teachings on fasting Fasting as a means to cultivate spiritual hunger Using Scripture when fasting becomes difficult Determining fasting duration Fasting as a tool for spiritual growth   Episode Highlights: [03:52] Defining Biblical Fasting Nathan seeks to clearly define what biblical fasting entails according to Scripture. He states that the primary reason Christians fast is because they long for Jesus and want to be closer to Him, not just to receive personal breakthroughs. Fasting is about longing for Christ and intimacy with Him. [10:34] Fasting for Intimacy with God Nathan explains that biblical fasting according to Scripture is abstaining from food in order to spend more time praying to and reading the Word of God. He clarifies that fasting is not about trying to earn or manipulate power from God, but rather is a means of cultivating intimacy with Him through dedicated prayer and time in His presence [14:02] What Fasting Looks Like Based on the Bible Nathan provides several biblical examples of fasting to illustrate what it entailed according to Scripture. He mentions Moses' 40 day fast with no food or water, Ezra and Nehemiah fasting for protection, Daniel fasting for insight, Esther fasting to seek God's favor, and Jesus' 40 day fast in the wilderness. He emphasizes that biblical fasting generally involved abstaining from food and redirecting that time and energy to prayer and studying God's Word. [22:20] Fasting as a Means to Cultivate Spiritual Hunger Nathan discusses how fasting can awaken and increase our spiritual hunger for God. He explains that we don't typically fast unless we already have some level of hunger or longing for more of God in our lives. Fasting intensifies that hunger. As the physical hunger pains start, taking ourselves deeper into prayer and Scripture can help direct that hunger spiritually. Nathan finds that as he fasts, his hunger and cry for more of God grows stronger. Fasting seems to be a tool the Holy Spirit uses to stir up a deeper spiritual hunger and appetite for Christ within us.