Breaking Strongholds Through Fasting
Welcome! I pray that the Holy Spirit gives me the right words so that you are blessed by this. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This week, I want to talk about something I personally struggle with—fasting. I believe in being transparent about the challenges I face because struggles are a natural part of following Christ. Often, when we face certain battles, we feel convicted—like a gray cloud hanging over our heads.
One of my “gray clouds” has been fasting. I struggle with it so much. I would start a fast, only to break it because it didn’t feel like the right time. Once, I began fasting but wasn’t leaning on God’s Word, so I felt like I wasn’t doing it the way God intended—and I stopped. Each time, I would repent because conviction weighed on me.
What I didn’t realize at first was that the enemy was trying to stop me in any way possible. The closer we get to God’s will, the harder the enemy attacks.
Finding Strength Through Scripture
Eventually, I went to a bookstore and found an amazing book about fasting (I’ll leave the reference at the end). It covers so much—breaking strongholds, fasting prayers, and key Scriptures. The part that motivated me most was the story of Jesus fasting in the wilderness.
Jesus fasted for 40 days, and during that time, Satan tried to tempt Him three times—but failed. My favorite verse from this story is Luke 4:3-4 (NIV):
The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.”
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’”
This passage is powerful—it shows us that fasting is necessary. It strengthens our relationship with God and brings clarity, discipline, and spiritual breakthrough.
Different Ways to Fast
I did some research and learned that there are many different ways to fast. You don’t have to fast from food alone. Fasting can be from anything that takes too much of your time away from God—like social media, TV, or other distractions.
(Of course, things like work and caring for your children don’t count!)
Another powerful Scripture about fasting is Matthew 6:16-18 (NIV):
“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. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
This reminds us that fasting should come from a sincere heart—not for attention or personal gain. Fasting is a powerful tool when used with the right intentions.
Tips for a Successful Fast
If you’re struggling with fasting like I was, here are a few tips that helped me:
✅ Prepare for your fast. Make sure it’s the right time and that you can truly focus on God and His Word.
✅ Start small. Don’t try to fast for long periods right away. Start with short fasts (maybe once a week), and as you grow spiritually, the Holy Spirit will lead you to longer fasts.
✅ Stay in the Word and pray without ceasing. Temptation will come during your fast. Rely on God’s Word, pray continuously, and play worship music if you can’t read at the moment.
✅ Remember—there is no “one right way” to fast. Let God guide you. Pray for discernment, listen for His voice, and He will lead you.
Book Reference:📖 John Eckhardt – Fasting for Breakthrough & Deliverance