Sharpen Your Affections: The Joy and Power of Fasting

Sharpen Your Affections with Fasting

Fasting seems to have lost its appeal in our modern society, particularly among the well-fed members of the American church. While there are certainly exceptions, the majority of us seem to be veering towards overindulgence rather than self-discipline. However, it's important to recognize that there are dangers on both ends of the spectrum - excessive asceticism and unrestrained indulgence.

Perhaps the problem lies in how we perceive fasting. If we view it as a mere duty or a practice of abstinence, it becomes difficult to muster the willpower to actually engage in this discipline. However, if we shift our perspective and see fasting as a means of experiencing the joy and grace of God, it can become a powerful tool for strengthening and sharpening our affections towards Him.

The Joy of Fasting

When we think of fasting, joy may not be the first word that comes to mind. It is often associated with sacrifice and self-denial, which can be daunting. However, fasting can actually be a source of great joy. In the Bible, we see numerous examples of fasting being accompanied by a deep sense of joy and satisfaction in the Lord.

Psalm 63:1-5 says, "O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary, beholding your power and glory. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. So I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips."

These verses beautifully depict the deep longing and satisfaction that can be found in seeking God through fasting. Our souls thirst for Him, and as we deny ourselves physical sustenance, we are reminded of our desperate need for Him. The joy comes from the realization that God's steadfast love is better than any earthly pleasure or comfort.

Sharpening Our Affections

So how does fasting actually sharpen our affections towards God? By intentionally setting aside time for fasting, we are prioritizing our relationship with Him above our physical desires. We are demonstrating our dependency on Him and our willingness to sacrifice for the sake of drawing near to Him.

In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus teaches about fasting and emphasizes the importance of doing it with the right heart attitude. He says, "And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you."

Jesus warns against fasting for the sake of appearances, but rather encourages us to fast in a way that is focused on our relationship with God. When we fast with a sincere desire to seek Him, our affections for Him are sharpened. We become more aware of His presence and more sensitive to His leading in our lives.

Fasting in 2023 and Beyond

In our fast-paced and instant gratification-driven culture, the discipline of fasting may seem even more challenging and countercultural. However, the timeless principles and benefits of fasting remain relevant and necessary in our lives today and in the future.

As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, where distractions and temptations are constantly vying for our attention, fasting can serve as a powerful tool for refocusing our affections on what truly matters. It can help us break free from the grip of materialism, consumerism, and worldly pursuits, and instead fix our gaze on the eternal things of God.

By intentionally setting aside time for fasting and prayer, we are creating space for God to work in our lives. We are allowing Him to transform our hearts, align our desires with His, and deepen our intimacy with Him. Fasting becomes a means of grace, through which God strengthens and sustains us on our journey of faith.

Conclusion

Fasting may not be the most popular or trendy practice in our modern world, but its value and significance cannot be underestimated. When we approach fasting with a joyful and sincere heart, recognizing it as a means of grace to sharpen our affections towards God, we open ourselves up to a deeper experience of His love and presence.

So, let us not neglect the discipline of fasting. Let us embrace it as a countercultural act of devotion and surrender, knowing that in doing so, we are positioning ourselves to receive God's abundant grace and to be transformed into the image of Christ.

As we embark on this journey of fasting, may we be reminded of the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:6, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied." Let us hunger and thirst for God, and may our affections be sharpened as we seek Him with all our hearts.