Bible Verses About Fasting and Prayer

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Fasting appears throughout Scripture, but it is never a stand-alone act. It is tied to prayer, repentance, and seeking God. The Bible mentions fasting in the Law, the Prophets, the Gospels, and the letters of Paul. Jesus Himself fasted forty days in the wilderness, and He gave clear teaching on how to fast without showing off. The early church fasted when setting apart missionaries. In the Old Testament, fasting often accompanied confession of sin, grief, or a desperate plea for help. So the short answer: the Bible has many verses about fasting, and they consistently connect it to humility before God, prayer, and a heart turned away from sin. It is not a way to earn God’s favor but a way to clear away distractions and seek Him. Below are the key passages and what they mean for us today.

What does the Bible say about fasting in the Old Testament?

Fasting in the Old Testament was usually a response to crisis or a sign of repentance. When Israel faced annihilation, Esther called for a fast. When David’s child was sick, he fasted and prayed. When the people returned from exile, they fasted and confessed their sins.

Esther 4:16 – Esther asked the Jews to fast for three days before she approached the king.
2 Samuel 12:16 – David fasted and prayed for his sick child.
Nehemiah 9:1-2 – The Israelites fasted, wore sackcloth, and confessed their sins.
1 Samuel 7:6 – They fasted and said, “We have sinned against the LORD.”
Psalm 35:13 – David says, “I humbled myself with fasting.”
Joel 2:12 – God calls His people to return to Him with fasting and weeping.

These examples show that fasting was an outward expression of an inward posture: humility, sorrow for sin, and dependence on God. It was never a ritual to manipulate God but a way to seek His face.

How did Jesus teach His followers to fast?

Jesus assumed His disciples would fast. In the Sermon on the Mount He said, “When you fast,” not “if you fast.” But He warned against making it a performance. Fasting is to be done secretly, for God’s eyes, not for people’s applause.

When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting will not be obvious to men, but only to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. — Matthew 6:16-18 (BSB)

Jesus also defended His disciples when they were criticized for not fasting as often as John’s disciples. He said, “How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while He is with them? But the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast” (Matthew 9:15, BSB). This implies that fasting would be a normal practice for His followers after His departure.

Jesus Himself fasted forty days in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:2). So He both practiced and taught fasting—but always as a private matter between the believer and God.

How are fasting and prayer connected in Scripture?

Fasting and prayer are often mentioned together. Fasting without prayer is just a diet; prayer gives it meaning. In the Bible, fasting is usually accompanied by prayer and seeking God’s will.

Daniel 9:3 – Daniel turned to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and petition, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.
Acts 13:2-3 – While the church in Antioch was worshiping and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul.” After more fasting and prayer, they sent them off.
Acts 14:23 – Paul and Barnabas appointed elders in every church “with prayer and fasting.”

These passages show that fasting is a way to intensify prayer. It clears away distractions and expresses earnestness. It is not a technique to get what we want but a way to humble ourselves and listen to God.

What are some key Bible verses about fasting?

Here is a list of important verses on fasting, grouped by theme:

Fasting as humility and repentance:

Psalm 35:13 – “I humbled myself with fasting.”
Joel 2:12 – “Return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.”
1 Samuel 7:6 – They fasted and confessed, “We have sinned against the LORD.”

Fasting in crisis:

Esther 4:16 – Esther asked the Jews to fast for three days before she approached the king.
2 Samuel 12:16 – David fasted and prayed for his child.

Fasting and seeking God’s direction:

Daniel 9:3 – Daniel sought God with prayer and fasting.
Acts 13:2-3 – The church fasted and received the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Acts 14:23 – Elders appointed with prayer and fasting.

Fasting in secret:

Matthew 6:16-18 – Jesus teaches to fast without showing off.

Fasting as a regular practice:

Luke 2:37 – Anna worshiped with fasting and prayer night and day.
2 Corinthians 6:5 – Paul lists fasting among his hardships for Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:27 – Paul mentions frequent fastings.

Fasting that pleases God:

Isaiah 58:6 – True fasting is breaking the chains of wickedness, untying the cords of the yoke, setting the oppressed free, and tearing off every yoke.

These verses show that fasting is a flexible practice. It can be done privately, in a group, for a short time, or for an extended period. The heart matters more than the length.

Does fasting still matter for Christians today?

Yes. While the New Testament does not command a specific fast day for Christians, it assumes fasting as a normal part of devotion. Jesus said His followers would fast after He left (Matthew 9:15). The early church fasted when making important decisions. Paul fasted regularly.

Fasting is not a way to earn salvation or to twist God’s arm. It is a voluntary discipline that helps us focus on God, repent, and seek His will. It can be a powerful way to humble ourselves and draw near to Him. Many Christians today fast during Lent, before important decisions, or when seeking God’s help in a crisis. Others fast regularly as a spiritual discipline.

If you are new to fasting, start small. Skip a meal and spend that time in prayer and reading Scripture. The goal is not to suffer but to seek God. Ask Him what He wants you to fast from and for how long. And remember Jesus’ words: do it quietly, for your Father sees in secret.

What warnings does the Bible give about fasting?

The Bible warns against fasting for show or as a way to manipulate God. Isaiah 58 rebukes those who fast while continuing to oppress others. Zechariah 7:5 asks, “When you fasted and mourned… was it really for Me?” Jesus condemned the Pharisees for disfiguring their faces to appear pious.

Fasting can become a source of pride. It can also become a substitute for obedience. God cares more about a humble, obedient heart than about skipped meals. So examine your motives. Are you fasting to know God better, or to impress others or feel superior? True fasting leads to humility, prayer, and love for others.

How can I start fasting and praying?

Begin with prayer. Ask God to guide you. Choose a time and type of fast that fits your situation—perhaps one meal, a day, or a specific item like social media. During the time you would normally eat or engage in that activity, spend it in prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking God. Keep it private. Don’t announce it. If you have health issues, talk to a doctor before fasting from food. You can also fast from other things that distract you from God.

Remember that fasting is not about earning anything. It is about clearing space to hear from God and to humble yourself before Him. As you fast, let your focus be on Him. If you stumble, ask for forgiveness and keep going. God is gracious.

Finally, fasting is best done in the context of a local church. Share your desire with a pastor or trusted believer who can pray for you and offer guidance. They can help you keep the right perspective and encourage you. And always remember that your standing before God is based on Christ’s work, not on your fasting. Fasting is a response of love, not a way to be saved.

Isn’t this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and tear off every yoke? — Isaiah 58:6 (BSB)

Common questions

What is the purpose of fasting in the Bible?

Fasting in the Bible is a way to humble yourself before God, seek His will, repent of sin, or express grief. It is always connected to prayer and a heart turned toward God. It is not a way to earn favor or manipulate God.

Did Jesus fast?

Yes, Jesus fasted forty days and forty nights in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:2). He also taught His disciples about fasting, assuming they would practice it (Matthew 6:16-18).

Is fasting required for Christians today?

The New Testament does not command a specific fast for Christians, but it assumes fasting as a normal part of devotion. Jesus said His followers would fast after He left (Matthew 9:15). It is a voluntary discipline, not a requirement for salvation.

How should I fast and pray?

Start with prayer and ask God for guidance. Choose a type of fast that fits your situation, keep it private, and use the time you would normally eat or engage in an activity for prayer and Bible reading. If you have health concerns, consult a doctor. It is wise to seek advice from a pastor or mature believer.