And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
— Matthew 6:16-18

What is fasting?

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that has been practiced by Christians for thousands of years. Simply put, fasting is a time in which a Christian intentionally goes without eating in order to devote their time to prayer. Fasting can be one day or multiple, complete or partial, but the purpose is still the same: to seek to align one's heart with God. This practice is so important, Jesus himself fasted before he began his public ministry. During Jesus' time of fasting, the gospel of Luke tells that Satan tempted Jesus to turn stones into bread. But Jesus answered him, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone'" (Luke 4:4). By fasting, we are declaring that we need God more than anything—even food!

How does Sound City practice fasting?

Over the years, we have practiced fasting in a few different ways. For example, one year Sound City took five days at the beginning of the year to fast and seek God's will regarding the upcoming year. Another year we took a different approach: one day of fasting at the beginning of each month. The specific days and times of fasting are less important than the heart in which we approach this important Christian practice.

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