Any time Easter or a New Year rolls around, you may start hearing about the spiritual discipline of a fast. Biblical fasting is sometimes thought to be an antiquated  practice done only by uber spiritual people of God. But is fasting still relevant for us today? According to scripture, yes!

When Jesus started His ministry He fasted for 40 days. He was preparing mentally and physically for three years of hard work furthering the Kingdom. He knew what was about to go down, and fasting was the best way to prepare. If Jesus thought fasting was essential in carrying out the work of His Father, shouldn’t it be important to us?

Through fasting, God has given us a way to closely connect with Him. I started fasting a few years ago and I have personally felt the power and relevance of this practice in my daily walk. If the Lord is leading you to fast this year, I hope you keep these few points in mind:

1. Prayer is necessary.

Scripture pairs fasting with prayer (1 Corinthians 7:5; Acts 14:23). When preparing to fast, prayerfully ask the Lord to lead you. Let the Lord reveal to you the direction He wants you to go.

2. Faith builder.

Fasting has the ability to rid distractions out of your life and build your faith. In Matthew 17:20-21, Jesus told the disciples how to build up “mountain moving” faith — through prayer and fasting.

3. Matter of the heart.

Fasting is meant to be between you and the Lord. The focus should be on the Lord and the work He’s doing in your heart. When Jesus was telling His disciples how to pray and fast, He commanded they do not make it “obvious” but to fast in private (Matthew 6:16-18).

As you begin your 2017, consider fasting as a wonderful way to refocus and align your life with His will. I pray this year is full of blessings and growth as you walk with your Savior and Lord. He’s got an amazing plan up His sleeve, I have no doubt.