I've been asked to give a talk this Sunday about fasting and prayer. So it seemed like a good topic to bring up here. Fasting is kind of a big thing in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (we dedicate at least one day a month to it, typically). But it has been mentioned a few times in the Old and New Testaments, too - and not just in Jesus' famous fast for forty days in the desert.
It's mentioned many times in Psalms (35:13, 69:10, 109.24) and in the Prophets of the Old Testament (Joel 2:12, Nehemiah 9:1). Also consider Jesus' suggestion about fasting in Matthew, chapter 6.
So what are your thoughts? Who else has had any experiences with fasting, or have questions about it?Matthew 6:16-18 wrote: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.