A12.9 – HOW TO UNDERGO A LONG PERIOD OF FASTING AND PRAYER

1. There is no Biblical time frame wherein we can pray and fast but we should regularly engage in the act, 2 Cor. 11:27

2. Fasting should always be limited to a set time because extended periods of abstinence from food can be damaging to the body, Acts 14:23

3. Fasting can be for just one meal, one day, a week, several weeks, or forty days, Mt 4:1-2

4. It is advisable for beginners to start fasting with short-time duration and later build up to longer-time duration of fasting and prayer

5. The type of fast could be either total abstinence from food and water; or abstinence from food only while drinking water or fruit juices

6. Drinking fruit juice during a prolong fast will decrease your hunger pains and give you some natural sugar energy

7. Avoid caffeinated drinks during long fast. Also, avoid chewing gum or mints, even if your breath is bad. They stimulate digestive action in your stomach which will increase your hunger pains

8. Fasting involves total or partial restrictions from physical or social activities. You are to limit physical activities

9. Fasting and prayer involve dedicating specific time each day for devotion, prayer and studying of God’s Word, Luke 17:3

10. The sick should not embark on long fast, except on doctors advise

11. Eat smaller meals for some preceding days before starting a long fast

12. Avoid television and other distractions during long fasts

13. Avoid high-fat and sugary foods during the preceding few days before a long fast. Rather, you should eat raw fruit and vegetables for some days before starting

14. Avoid using drugs, whether natural, herbal or orthodox medications

15. Take enough and adequate rest during long fast