Fasting + Self-Discipline

Posted on February 3, 2026

I, along with my church family @Have Life Church have just completed twenty-one days Fasting. Our pastor: Dr. Shomari White released us from our journey yesterday (2/1/26). I know you already know what it means to fast but let me define it anyway.

Fasting as a spiritual discipline is the voluntary abstinence from food and/or other comforts, for a specific period. During this time, we are encouraged to eliminate or cut back on those things that consume much of our time and focus more on God. Allowing for greater intimacy and sensitivity to His will.

I was about seven days into my Fast and realized that I had begun to shed some inches from around my waist. I said to myself, “ok!” And then The Holy Spirit said, “Watch your In-take” because you should have more self-discipline in your life.” As I began to process what I had heard, sometimes I’m not as intentional (my word for 2026) as I should be when I allow things to enter my temple. For example, read and pray more instead of scrolling FB or IG. Maybe eat half the muffin instead of the whole muffin. Perhaps, turn down my plate more than when we are on a corporate fast. Just as I am intentional during the fasting period, I need to be self-disciplined enough for it to be a part of my lifestyle.

Too often, we allow some things, consume some things in our physical bodies, as well as in our spiritual bodies that have no significant kingdom benefits. We like what we like, we consume what we consume without considering the unhealthy habits that it poses to our daily lives.

Here’s my transparency moment: The Holy Spirit also said to me, “stop worrying about dieting and become more self-discipline, it’s your intake of things.” The Holy Spirit wasn’t just referring to food. My feelings were hurt momentarily, but how many of us know God isn’t that concerned about our hurt feelings, if it will help us.

Key Aspects of Spiritual Fasting:

Focus on Prayer: Fasting is frequently paired with increased time in prayer, Scripture reading, and worship, serving as "intensified prayer".

Self-Discipline and Dependence: It helps train the body, breaking reliance on physical comfort and strengthening dependence on divine nourishment.

Purpose Beyond Food: It is not for weight loss or appearing holy to others, but for spiritual breakthrough, purifying the heart, and breaking sinful habits.

Fasting is a way to "crucify the flesh" and lift the spirit, often used for spiritual warfare or when seeking God in times of crisis.

Spiritual disciplines are intentional habits and practices, often rooted in scripture, designed to foster spiritual growth, maturity, and a deeper connection with God. They act as tools to align one's heart, mind, and actions with a more Christ-like life. Key examples include prayer, Bible study, fasting, worship, solitude, and service.

Definition & Purpose: These are not mere chores but rather pathways to transform one's inner being and develop character. They are, in essence, training for spiritual maturity.

Types of Disciplines: Practices are often categorized into three types:

Inward: Meditation, prayer, fasting, and study.

Outward: Simplicity, solitude, submission, and service.

Corporate: Confession, worship, guidance, and celebration.

Key Principles of a Disciplined Life

Define Your Why: Understand your core values and what truly motivates you to create purpose behind your actions.

Start Small: Break big goals into tiny, manageable steps to build momentum and master self-control over time.

Build Habits & Routines: Create consistent daily structures (morning routines, dedicated work times) so actions become automatic.

Love y'all

Pastor P

Listen connect with me here, or by calling 980.577.8141