Introduction
• Fasting is one of the least popular and least practiced spiritual disciplines.
     Illustration: A member of May's congregation is terrified by the notion of giving up food for 24 hours.
Transition: There are no hard-set rules for fasting, but there are some guidelines we can follow.

Avoid improper motives
• Don't fast in order to impress other people.
     Matthew 6:16
• Don't fast in order to improve your health.
• In most cases, don't ignore fasting because of health concerns.
     Illustration: A young girl fears for her father's life when she learns that he is fasting.

Five scriptural motives for fasting
• You should fast to hear from God.
     Acts 13:2
• You should fast to intercede for others.
     Psalm 35:13
• You should fast as an act of repentance.
     Joel 1:13–14
• You should fast for strength and direction.
     Acts 14:23
• You should fast as an act of worship.
     Luke 2:37
Transition: Now, let's take a look at the methods of fasting.

Methods of fasting
• Start with a 24-hour fast.
     Illustration: Richard Foster recommends beginning with a noon-to-noon fast, and then increasing the amount of time as you go on.
• Drink a lot of liquids.
• Take a walk when you get hungry.
• When your fast ends, resume your eating habits carefully.
• Fast monthly from a specific pleasure (TV, pizza, etc.).

Final suggestions
• Focus on Jesus (his teachings, miracles, resurrection, etc.) instead of your hunger.
• Don't be legalistic—maintain your focus on connecting with God.
     Illustration: One of May's friends insisted that God does not honor a fast if the individual brushes his or her teeth.
• Expect results, but not immediately.
     Matthew 6:18

Conclusion
• The purpose of fasting is not to manipulate God into doing our will; it is to connect with him on a deeper level.
• When you fast, you demonstrate faith and commitment, and God has promised to reward you for it.