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According to the Bible, there are three duties of every Christian: give, pray and fast. Biblical fasting takes discipline and strength—strength which you can only receive from God. Your private discipline will bring you rewards in Heaven, says Matthew 6. 

At Lighthouse we are moving into a season of intentional prayer and fasting. Starting in January 2012 we are seeking the Lord for clarity, direction, favor, and spiritual increase as we (individually and corporately) pray and fast at the beginning of the New Year. Pray and ask the Lord what, how and when you might fast (one day per week, 3 days, 7 days, 21 days) and then be obedient to how He leads you. 

Why should I fast?
1. Are you in need of healing or a miracle?
2. Do you need the tender touch of God in your life?
3. Is there a dream inside you that only He can make possible?
4. Are you in need of a fresh encounter?
5. Do you desire a deeper, more intimate and powerful relationship with the Lord?
6. Are you ready to have heightened sensitivity to the desires of God?
7. Do you need to break away from bondages that have been holding you hostage?
8. Is there a friend or loved one that needs Salvation?
9. Do you desire to know God's will for your life?

How to Begin
Start with a clear goal. Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, restoration of marriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.

Deciding What to Fast and For How Long
There are three (3) various fasts discussed in the Bible:

1. The TOTAL Fast.
See Exodus 34:27-28. The story of the new stone tablets
This is no food and drink. This type of fast is only for those who clearly are called of God to do this type of fast. If you do feel called to this, take it one day at a time.

2. The COMMON Fast.
See Luke 4:1-2. It Is the story of Jesus’ Temptation
This is called the “common” fast because it is most common. This type of fast is no food but liquids are okay. Stick with fruit juices and water. Some people may do this type of fast for a period of days or perhaps one day a week for a period of time. Usually a person will abstain from eating until evening and “break fast” with a light meal.

3. The SELECTIVE Fast.
See Daniel 10:2-3. This is Daniel's vision of a Man
This type of fast is abstaining from a particular food for a period of time (i.e. chocolate, meat, pop, coffee, ice cream, etc).

You might also consider “fasting” other things for a period of time such as tv, facebook, hobbies, etc.
You may fast as long as you like. Most can easily fast from one to three days, but you may feel the grace to go longer, even as much as 21 to 40 days. Use wisdom and pray for guidance. Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study. Beginners are advised to start slow.

What to Expect
When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus' example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God's face.

What Happens when we Fast?
-Fasting is an act of humility. Humility breaks the power of self, the flesh, and the devil.
-Fasting is also an act of repentance, which sets things right with God.
-Fasting draws believers from the natural to the supernatural.
-Fasting strengthens our faith.
-Fasting develops spiritual sensitivity.
-Fasting shows God a sincere heart and a singleness of purpose, which in a special way, receives God’s attention.
-Fasting is a gift from you to God in which He delights.
-Fasting increases our prayer power.
-Fasting is the master key, which makes the impossible become possible.

Preparing Spiritually
Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4). Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2). Enter into fasting with a positive attitude and a positive faith. During your fast give plenty of time for prayer and Bible reading. Try not to draw attention to your fasting and keep a watchful check on your motives and attitudes.

How to End
Don't overeat. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.

As you Begin, Write Down your Answers to the Following Questions:

1) The type of fasting I have selected is: ______________________
2) I am fasting for the following time frame: ____________________
3) I am fasting for the following purposes:
A)________________________________
B)________________________________
C)________________________________