I am on the 7th day of a forty day fast and it has been very rich spiritually. I wanted to give you a heads up that teaching the spiritual discipline of fasting with you disciples is an absolute must as you mature them in Christ. It is great for their growth in Christ. In addition, the Lord uses fasting with disciples to build a close bond with them.
Hopefully, these are some helpful tips to consider when you cast vision to fast with your disciple:
Make sure you explain the theological rationale behind a Christian fast.
-The goal of fasting is to intentionally move toward God. However, not in the sense that we don’t have Christ but in the sense that we have Christ and want him all the more.
-Matthew 9:14-17
Help them understand the heart and attitude that should accompany a fast.
-Matthew 6:16-18
Coach them that the hunger pains are meant for prayer not ESPN.
-Try to Limit entertainment i.e. TV. Don’t replace the hunger with another form of comfort but seek the Lord.
Coach them on what are the different fasts.
-Juice Fast
-Partial Fast
-Material Fast
-Daniel Fast (Dan 1 and 10)
Particularly, with a 40 day fast it is important to teach your disciple the diet that should accompany this type of fast for safety reasons.
For example, during my forty day fast my diet is:
1 Cup of Fruit Juice
1 Cup of Broth
1 Cup of Fruit Juice
1 Cup of Maple Syrup and Lemon Juice
Be clear about side effects.
-You may experience moderate to severe headaches for the first day or so as your body rids itself of caffeine, salt, sugar, and various impurities.
Make sure you leave freedom and discernment for people who might not be able to fast.
Cautions
-Anyone with a medical condition related to eating or under the treatment of a physician must consult their doctor before fasting. Children, especially small children, will have special needs that must be considered. Under these conditions, find some sacrifice in the area of food that can be made without endangering your health.
I pray you have a great time with Christ.
