Daily Devotional
Spiritual Habits
0 of 12 days completed
Day 7
Matthew 4:2 (ESV)
[2] And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.
Following Jesus' Example in Fasting
At the beginning of His earthly ministry, Jesus entered a time of extended fasting in the wilderness. Matthew 4:2 records, "After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry." Jesus models that spiritual strength often comes through self-denial and reliance on the Father. Fasting—while not comfortable—teaches our hearts to depend on God, not our appetites. It draws our attention away from temporary satisfaction and points us to enduring spiritual realities. The discipline of fasting is not about earning God’s favor or showing off spiritual prowess. Instead, it is an act of humility and surrender, reminding us that our souls are sustained by God alone. When we fast, we set aside physical comforts to focus on prayer, dependence, and intimacy with Him. Let Jesus' example invite you to explore fasting as a way to seek God more earnestly and be shaped by His Spirit.
Key Takeaway
Fasting patterned after Jesus deepens our dependence and intimacy with God.
Questions to Consider
- Which physical comfort could you set aside as you seek more of the Lord?
- How does Jesus’ example of fasting impact your view of spiritual disciplines?
- What would it mean for you to fast with a focus on knowing God?
Personal Reflection
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