Things to avoid when fasting and praying

Things to Avoid When Fasting and Praying (Biblical Guide)

      Fasting and prayer are powerful spiritual disciplines that draw us closer to God, open our hearts to His will, and often bring divine breakthroughs. However, the Bible makes it clear that not every fast is acceptable to God. Certain attitudes and behaviors can hinder the effectiveness of your fast.

      Here are eight biblical things to avoid when fasting and praying, to ensure your sacrifice is pleasing to the Lord.

1. Fasting to Impress Others

      Jesus warned against fasting to be seen or admired by others. Some people put on a gloomy face, broadcasting their fast in hopes of being seen as spiritual.

   “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 (NIV)

What to do instead: Fast in humility and secrecy. Let your motivation be to seek God's face, not public approval.

2. Fasting Without Repentance

      Fasting is not a substitute for holiness. In Isaiah 58, God rejected Israel’s fast because they continued in sin, strife, and oppression.

   “You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high.” —Isaiah 58:4 (NIV)

What to do instead: Repent genuinely before or during your fast. Confess your sins and walk in righteousness.

3. Fasting Without a Spiritual Purpose

      Fasting is not just skipping meals—it must be connected to a spiritual goal such as seeking guidance, interceding, or breaking strongholds.

   “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice...?”

—Isaiah 58:6 (NIV)

What to do instead: Clearly define your reason for fasting. Ask yourself: “What am I seeking from God through this fast?”

4. Neglecting Prayer and Scripture

      Fasting without prayer and time in the Word is simply starvation. The power of fasting comes from being spiritually nourished.

   “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

—Matthew 4:4 (NIV)

What to do instead: Dedicate extra time for prayer, worship, and reading the Bible during your fast.

5. Complaining or Being Irritable

      Fasting can challenge the flesh, but it should not lead to moodiness or impatience. Complaining defeats the purpose of drawing nearer to God.

   “Do everything without grumbling or arguing.”

—Philippians 2:14 (NIV)

What to do instead: Maintain a grateful and peaceful attitude. Ask God for grace and strength to stay focused.

6. Pride and Self-Righteousness

      Boasting about your fast or feeling spiritually superior because of it is a dangerous trap. This was the sin of the Pharisees in Jesus’ parable.

   “God, I thank you that I am not like other people... I fast twice a week.”

—Luke 18:11-12 (NIV)

   “For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled…” (v14)

What to do instead: Fast with humility, recognizing your total dependence on God.

7. Ignoring the Needs of Others

      Fasting should make you more compassionate, not self-focused. In Isaiah 58, God highlighted acts of mercy as part of true fasting.

   “Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter?”

—Isaiah 58:7 (NIV)

What to do instead: Look for opportunities to be generous. Bless others while you fast—it pleases God.

8. Fasting Without the Holy Spirit’s Leading

      Some people fast out of routine or obligation, not because the Holy Spirit is prompting them. This can become legalistic and powerless.

   “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days...”

—Matthew 4:1-2 (NIV)

What to do instead: Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your fasting—when, how long, and what to focus on.

Summary List (Quick Reference):

● Don’t fast to impress others.

● Don’t continue in sin or strife.

● Don’t fast without clear spiritual intent.

● Don’t neglect prayer, worship, and Bible study.

● Don’t complain or be irritable.

● Don’t fall into pride or legalism.

● Don’t ignore opportunities for kindness.

● Don’t fast without the Holy Spirit’s leading.

      Fasting and prayer are sacred and powerful, but they must be done God’s way. Avoid the pitfalls of pride, performance, and routine. Let your fast be marked by humility, sincerity, love, and devotion to God.

      When you fast with the right heart, God hears you, strengthens you, and rewards you.

Closing Prayer

   Heavenly Father, I thank You for the opportunity to draw closer to You through fasting and prayer. Cleanse my heart from pride, self-righteousness, and impure motives. Help me fast with sincerity, guided by Your Spirit. Let this time of seeking You be marked by love, repentance, power, and breakthrough. Use me to bless others and glorify Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.