Things to avoid when fasting and praying

Fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it’s about aligning your heart with God’s will, seeking His presence, and dedicating yourself to a period of deeper spiritual focus. Yet, without proper understanding and preparation, it’s easy to fall into common traps that can hinder the effectiveness of your fast. Here are 10 things to avoid when fasting and praying with Bible verses and commentary.

1. Avoid Fasting to Impress Others

Bible Verse “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.” (Matthew 6:16)

Commentary: Jesus warns against fasting for the sake of public recognition. If your motivation is to gain praise from others, that’s the only reward you’ll get. Instead, fast with humility and sincerity before God.

2. Don’t Neglect Prayer and Seeking God

Bible Verse: “But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret.” (Matthew 6:17-18)

Commentary: Fasting without prayer is just starving yourself. Use the time you would have spent eating to pray, read Scripture, and draw closer to God. Make it a time of spiritual renewal.

3. Avoid Unforgiveness

Bible Verse: “And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” (Mark 11:25)

Commentary: Holding onto grudges can hinder your prayers. Fasting is a time to examine your heart and release bitterness, making room for God’s grace to flow through you.

Also read: Prayer points during fasting with scriptures

4. Don’t Make It About Rituals and Rules

Bible Verse: “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?”* (Isaiah 58:6)

Commentary: God is not interested in empty rituals. Fasting should lead to genuine transformation and compassion for others. It’s a time to seek God’s heart and align yourself with His will.

5. Avoid Fasting Without a Clear Purpose

Bible Verse: “Consecrate a fast; call a solemn assembly. Gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land to the house of the Lord your God, and cry out to the Lord.” (Joel 1:14)

Commentary: Fasting without a clear purpose or direction can be unfruitful. Before starting, seek God’s guidance on what you’re fasting for—whether it’s for spiritual breakthrough, guidance, or intercession.

6. Don’t Fast with a Hard Heart

Bible Verse: “Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers.” (Isaiah 58:3)

Commentary: True fasting is about aligning your heart with God’s. If your actions don’t reflect the love and justice of God, your fast is in vain. Let fasting soften your heart toward God and others.

7. Avoid Fasting While Continuing Sinful Habits

Bible Verse: “If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.” (Psalm 66:18)

Commentary: Fasting without a heart of repentance is ineffective. Use this time to confess sins and turn away from habits that distance you from God. A genuine fast should lead to spiritual renewal.

8. Don’t Be Discouraged by Physical Weakness

Bible Verse: “He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.” (Isaiah 40:29)

Commentary: Fasting can be physically challenging, but remember that God sustains you. Instead of focusing on physical discomfort, lean into God’s strength and rely on His provision.

9. Avoid Binge Eating When Breaking the Fast

Bible Verse: “Put a knife to your throat if you are given to appetite.” (Proverbs 23:2)

Commentary: After a period of fasting, it can be tempting to overeat. However, be mindful of how you break your fast to avoid undoing the spiritual benefits. Ease back into eating with gratitude and moderation.

10. Don’t Let Fear or Doubt Dominate

Bible Verse: “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind.” (James 1:6)

Commentary: Fasting and prayer require faith. If you are constantly doubting that God will respond, it can hinder your spiritual growth. Trust that God hears you and is at work, even if you don’t see immediate results.