FASTING IS FOR HUMILITY

 Isaiah 58:6-7 (NIV) says, “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?  Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?” 

Fasting is not about changing God. It is about changing yourself. Many people fast thinking they can force God to move on their behalf. But true fasting is about humbling yourself and putting your heart in the right position to receive God’s help and direction.

In Isaiah 58, God was not pleased with how people were fasting. They were seeking God, yet they continued in sin. They fasted but still fought, quarreled, and mistreated others. God reminded them that fasting is a time of humility, not pride—a time of repentance, not self-pity.

Many people fast and see no results because they do it the wrong way. Fasting is not just about skipping meals. It is about checking your heart and changing your behavior.

God explains in Isaiah 58:2-7 what we should do during fasting:

1. Loose the chains of injustice – Stop mistreating people or supporting unfair practices.

2. Untie the cords of the yoke – Help people who are under pressure, stress, or bondage.

3. Set the oppressed free – Be part of someone’s healing, not their pain.

4. Break every yoke – Let go of anything that holds others or yourself down.

5. Share food with the hungry – Be generous during your fast.

6. Provide shelter to the homeless – Care for those in need.

7. Clothe the naked – Bless someone in need of clothes or basic help.

8. Care for your own family – Don’t ignore your responsibilities at home.

Fasting is not about looking spiritual—it’s about acting with love, kindness, and humility. That’s the kind of fasting that touches God’s heart.

Prayer: Lord, help me fast with humility and love, not pride or selfishness. Change my heart.