50+ Bible Verses About Fasting (And What They Mean)

Fasting is a practice that has deep roots in many religious traditions, including Christianity. It's more than just abstaining from food; it's a spiritual discipline meant to draw believers closer to God.

This article compiles 50 Bible verses that highlight the significance of fasting. These scriptures offer insights, encouragement, and guidance for those looking to understand or deepen their fasting experience.

What Does the Bible Say About Fasting

Fasting is a practice deeply rooted in the Bible, offering a way to connect with God on a deeper level. It's not just about giving up food; it's about seeking spiritual growth and understanding. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings on fasting, showing its importance in various aspects of life.

One key theme is the idea of fasting as a form of sincere devotion and humility. Verses like Matthew 6:16-18 and Isaiah 58:6 remind us that fasting should be a private act of faith, not a public display. It's about focusing on our relationship with God, seeking His guidance and support in a humble and genuine way.

Another important theme is fasting for guidance and clarity. In times of uncertainty, people in the Bible often turned to fasting to seek God's direction. For instance, Judges 20:26 and Acts 13:3 show how fasting can help us find clarity and make important decisions with divine insight.

Fasting is also seen as a powerful tool for repentance and seeking forgiveness. Verses like Jonah 3:6-10 and Nehemiah 9:2-3 highlight how fasting can be a way to show genuine remorse and seek God's mercy. It's a reminder that no matter how far we've strayed, we can always turn back to God with a sincere heart.

Lastly, fasting during hard times is a recurring theme. When faced with challenges, people in the Bible often fasted to seek strength and comfort from God. Psalm 69:10 and 2 Samuel 1:12 illustrate how fasting can help us find peace and resilience in difficult moments.

50 Bible Verses About Fasting

10 Bible Verses on Spiritual Fasting

1) Matthew 6:16-18

Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

Meaning: Fasting is meant to be a private act of devotion, not a public display. It's about sincerity and humility, focusing on your relationship with God rather than seeking approval from others.

2) Joel 2:12

Now, therefore," says the Lord, "Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.

Meaning: While the world often tells us to hide our pain and put on a brave face, this verse invites us to bring our whole selves—brokenness and all—before God. It's a reminder that true healing and transformation begin with honest, heartfelt surrender.

3) Isaiah 58:6

Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke?

Meaning: What if fasting was more than just abstaining from food? Consider how it could be a powerful act of justice and compassion, challenging us to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

4) Daniel 9:3

Then I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.

Meaning: When you feel overwhelmed, consider this: turning to God with your whole heart can be like finding a safe harbor in a storm. It's a powerful reminder that in moments of deep need, seeking divine help with sincerity can bring profound peace and clarity.

5) Acts 13:2

As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, "Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them."

Meaning: When you dedicate time to spiritual practices, you open yourself up to divine guidance. It's a reminder that clarity and direction often come when you make space for God in your daily routine.

6) Ezra 8:23

So we fasted and entreated our God for this, and He answered our prayer.

Meaning: Ever wonder why some prayers seem to go unanswered? This verse suggests that fasting can be a powerful way to seek God's intervention. It's a reminder that sometimes, the act of humbling ourselves can lead to unexpected breakthroughs.

7) Nehemiah 1:4

So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven.

Meaning: Picture a moment when you feel utterly overwhelmed, and your first instinct is to turn to a trusted friend. This verse reminds us that in our deepest sorrow, seeking solace in God through fasting and prayer can be profoundly comforting.

8) Psalm 35:13

But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting; And my prayer would return to my own heart.

Meaning: Ever felt the weight of someone else's pain so deeply that you couldn't help but turn to prayer and fasting? This verse captures that raw, heartfelt response, reminding us of the profound empathy and connection we can feel for others in their time of need.

9) 2 Samuel 12:16

David therefore pleaded with God for the child, and David fasted and went in and lay all night on the ground.

Meaning: The power of heartfelt prayer and fasting in times of deep distress is undeniable. It's a reminder that in our most challenging moments, turning to God with sincerity can bring comfort and hope.

10) Jonah 3:5

So the people of Nineveh believed God, proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest to the least of them.

Meaning: We often rely on our own strength, but this verse invites us to trust in something greater. What if, in moments of uncertainty, we chose to surrender and seek divine guidance instead?

10 Bible Verses on Fasting and Prayer

11) Matthew 17:21

However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.

Meaning: Sometimes, the challenges we face require more than just effort—they demand a deeper spiritual commitment. It's a timeless reminder that true breakthroughs often come when we combine our prayers with fasting, seeking divine intervention with our whole heart.

12) Mark 9:29

This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting.

Meaning: Ever felt like you're hitting a wall? This verse reminds us that some obstacles require a deeper spiritual approach, combining both prayer and fasting to truly overcome them.

13) Acts 14:23

So when they had appointed elders in every church, and prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed.

Meaning: The act of appointing leaders wasn't just a formality; it was a deeply spiritual process involving prayer and fasting, showing a profound trust in God's guidance and provision.

14) Luke 2:37

and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

Meaning: Embrace the dedication and perseverance shown here. In your own life, consider how consistent acts of devotion, no matter how small, can lead to profound spiritual growth and fulfillment.

15) 1 Corinthians 7:5

Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.

Meaning: In moments of struggle, this verse gently reminds us of the importance of mutual support and understanding, especially when seeking spiritual growth. It's a comforting reassurance that even in times of separation, unity and love remain essential.

16) Daniel 10:3

I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.

Meaning: The depth of commitment and sacrifice in this verse is profound, highlighting the lengths one can go to seek divine connection and clarity. It's a beautiful reminder of the power of dedication and the spiritual rewards that come from wholehearted devotion.

17) Esther 4:16

Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish.

Meaning: Ever felt like the odds are stacked against you? This verse reminds us that in moments of great risk, unwavering faith and collective support can lead to extraordinary courage and resilience.

18) 2 Chronicles 20:3

And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.

Meaning: In moments of fear, turning to God with a sincere heart can bring profound peace and guidance. It's a beautiful reminder that seeking divine help can transform our deepest anxieties into unwavering faith.

19) Acts 10:30

So Cornelius said, "Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing

Meaning: Take a moment to consider the power of divine encounters. This verse shows that sincere fasting and prayer can lead to extraordinary moments of revelation and guidance, transforming your spiritual journey in profound ways.

20) Nehemiah 9:1

Now on the twenty-fourth day of this month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, in sackcloth, and with dust on their heads.

Meaning: When life feels overwhelming, coming together in humility and seeking divine help can bring a sense of unity and hope. It's a powerful reminder that collective faith and earnest prayer can lead to profound transformation.

10 Bible Verses on Fasting for Guidance

21) Judges 20:26

Then all the children of Israel, that is, all the people, went up and came to the house of God and wept. They sat there before the Lord and fasted that day until evening; and they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before the Lord.

Meaning: When you're feeling lost or overwhelmed, remember that seeking God's presence with a sincere heart can bring comfort and clarity. It's a powerful reminder that in moments of deep need, turning to faith can provide the strength to persevere.

22) Acts 13:3

Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

Meaning: Sometimes, the most powerful actions come from a place of deep spiritual preparation. It's a gentle reminder that seeking divine guidance can lead to purposeful and impactful decisions.

23) Exodus 34:28

So he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he neither ate bread nor drank water. And He wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments.

Meaning: Ever thought about the power of complete dedication? This verse shows that profound spiritual experiences often come from deep commitment, reminding us that true transformation requires wholehearted devotion.

24) 1 Samuel 7:6

So they gathered together at Mizpah, drew water, and poured it out before the Lord. And they fasted that day, and said there, "We have sinned against the Lord." And Samuel judged the children of Israel at Mizpah.

Meaning: God's mercy and forgiveness are timeless. When we come before Him with genuine repentance, He meets us with grace and restoration, no matter the era.

25) 2 Chronicles 20:4

So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord.

Meaning: When was the last time you sought guidance with such unity and purpose? Consider how coming together with others in sincere prayer can lead to profound clarity and strength.

26) Jeremiah 36:9

Now it came to pass in the fifth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah, king of Judah, in the ninth month, that they proclaimed a fast before the Lord to all the people in Jerusalem, and to all the people who came from the cities of Judah to Jerusalem.

Meaning: In moments of collective need, turning to God with sincerity brings a profound sense of unity and hope. Trust in the reliability of His promises, knowing that seeking Him together can lead to powerful outcomes.

27) Ezra 8:21

Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way for us and our little ones and all our possessions.

Meaning: In ancient times, fasting was a communal act of humility and seeking divine direction. This verse shifts our perspective, reminding us that true guidance often comes when we collectively humble ourselves and earnestly seek God's wisdom.

28) Daniel 10:2-3

In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.

Meaning: When life feels chaotic and overwhelming, consider the power of deep, sincere dedication. Just as Daniel committed himself fully, sometimes our greatest clarity and peace come from moments of profound sacrifice and focus.

29) Acts 9:9

And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

Meaning: What if, in moments of profound change, you allowed yourself the space to truly pause and seek deeper understanding? Consider how stepping back and reflecting can lead to transformative clarity and growth.

30) 1 Kings 19:8

So he arose, and ate and drank; and he went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights as far as Horeb, the mountain of God.

Meaning: Ever felt like you couldn't go on? Remember, just as God provided strength for the journey, He will sustain you through your toughest times.

10 Bible Verses on Fasting in Hard Times

31) Psalm 69:10

When I wept and chastened my soul with fasting, that became my reproach.

Meaning: The word "chastened" carries a profound weight, much like the feeling of self-discipline when training for a marathon. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most challenging paths lead to the deepest growth and understanding.

32) Joel 1:14

Consecrate a fast, Call a sacred assembly; Gather the elders And all the inhabitants of the land Into the house of the Lord your God, And cry out to the Lord.

Meaning: In the midst of life's chaos, remember that God's love and grace are unwavering. Turning to Him with a sincere heart can bring profound peace and assurance, even in the stormiest times.

33) 2 Samuel 1:12

And they mourned and wept and fasted until evening for Saul and for Jonathan his son, for the people of the Lord and for the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.

Meaning: In a world that often glorifies strength and self-reliance, this verse reminds us of the profound power in mourning and seeking God during our deepest sorrows. It's a beautiful testament to the strength found in humility and collective grief.

34) 1 Kings 21:27

So it was, when Ahab heard those words, that he tore his clothes and put sackcloth on his body, and fasted and lay in sackcloth, and went about mourning.

Meaning: Ever felt the weight of your actions and sought a way to make things right? This verse reminds us that genuine remorse and seeking forgiveness can lead to profound personal transformation.

35) Isaiah 58:3

Why have we fasted, they say, and You have not seen? Why have we afflicted our souls, and You take no notice?

Meaning: The certainty of God's awareness is beautifully captured here. The vivid language underscores the deep yearning for divine recognition, making it a poetic reminder of our heartfelt pleas to be seen and heard.

36) Jeremiah 14:12

When they fast, I will not hear their cry; and when they offer burnt offering and grain offering, I will not accept them. But I will consume them by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence.

Meaning: In every season, the sincerity of our hearts matters most. Genuine devotion and humility are what truly resonate with God.

37) Lamentations 3:40-41

Let us search out and examine our ways, And turn back to the Lord; Let us lift our hearts and hands To God in heaven.

Meaning: In the hustle and bustle of life, it's essential to pause and reflect on our actions. Embrace the call to reconnect with your faith and seek divine guidance with an open heart.

38) Zechariah 7:5

Say to all the people of the land, and to the priests: "When you fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh months during those seventy years, did you really fast for Me—for Me?

Meaning: The depth of God's wisdom is truly awe-inspiring. It's a gentle reminder that our actions, when done with genuine devotion, are always seen and cherished by Him.

39) Matthew 9:15

And Jesus said to them, "Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.

Meaning: God's presence brings joy and celebration, but in times of absence, our longing for Him deepens. It's a beautiful reminder of the profound connection we share with the divine.

40) Luke 5:35

But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them; then they will fast in those days.

Meaning: In times of uncertainty, this verse serves as a gentle reminder that even in moments of absence, our faith can anchor us. It's a comforting thought that beyond our current struggles, there is a greater hope and purpose ahead.

10 Bible Verses on Fasting and Repentance

41) Jonah 3:6-10

Then word came to the king of Nineveh; and he arose from his throne and laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth and sat in ashes. And he caused it to be proclaimed and published throughout Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles, saying, Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything; do not let them eat, or drink water. But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily to God; yes, let every one turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. Who can tell if God will turn and relent, and turn away from His fierce anger, so that we may not perish? Then God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God relented from the disaster that He had said He would bring upon them, and He did not do it.

Meaning: The power of genuine repentance can lead to incredible transformation and mercy. It's a beautiful reminder that no matter how far we've strayed, turning back to God with a sincere heart can bring profound change and hope.

42) Nehemiah 9:2-3

Then those of Israelite lineage separated themselves from all foreigners; and they stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers. And they stood up in their place and read from the Book of the Law of the Lord their God for one-fourth of the day; and for another fourth they confessed and worshiped the Lord their God.

Meaning: In moments of reflection, acknowledging our past and seeking forgiveness can lead to profound spiritual renewal. It's a timeless reminder that true growth often begins with humility and sincere repentance.

43) Daniel 9:5

we have sinned and committed iniquity, we have done wickedly and rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts and Your judgments.

Meaning: God's promises are steadfast, and His mercy is boundless. Trust in His unwavering love and forgiveness, knowing that sincere repentance brings renewal and hope.

44) Joel 2:13

So rend your heart, and not your garments; Return to the Lord your God, For He is gracious and merciful, Slow to anger, and of great kindness; And He relents from doing harm.

Meaning: When you feel overwhelmed by your mistakes, remember that God's love and mercy are always within reach. It's a comforting reminder that true change starts from within, and turning back to Him can bring profound peace and renewal.

45) Isaiah 58:5

Is it a fast that I have chosen, A day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush, And to spread out sackcloth and ashes? Would you call this a fast, And an acceptable day to the Lord?

Meaning: The timeless truth here is that genuine devotion goes beyond mere rituals. Embrace the deeper call to heartfelt sincerity and true humility in your spiritual journey.

46) 1 Samuel 7:5-6

And Samuel said, "Gather all Israel to Mizpah, and I will pray to the Lord for you." So they gathered together at Mizpah, drew water, and poured it out before the Lord. And they fasted that day, and said there, "We have sinned against the Lord." And Samuel judged the children of Israel at Mizpah.

Meaning: Faith can be a powerful anchor in turbulent times. This verse reassures us of God's unwavering love and protection, reminding us that turning to Him brings profound security and peace.

47) Ezra 10:6

Then Ezra rose up from before the house of God, and went into the chamber of Jehohanan the son of Eliashib; and when he came there, he ate no bread and drank no water, for he mourned because of the guilt of those from the captivity.

Meaning: God's presence is a constant source of comfort, even in our deepest sorrows. This verse encourages us to confront our mistakes with humility, reminding us that true repentance can lead to profound personal growth and transformation.

48) Jeremiah 36:6

You go, therefore, and read from the scroll which you have written at my instruction, the words of the Lord, in the hearing of the people in the Lord's house on the day of fasting. And you shall also read them in the hearing of all Judah who come from their cities.

Meaning: There's a profound beauty in sharing wisdom and truth with others, especially during moments of collective reflection. It's a reminder of the joy and connection that comes from bringing people together to hear and embrace divine guidance.

49) Leviticus 16:29-31

This shall be a statute forever for you: In the seventh month, on the tenth day of the month, you shall afflict your souls, and do no work at all, whether a native of your own country or a stranger who dwells among you. For on that day the priest shall make atonement for you, to cleanse you, that you may be clean from all your sins before the Lord. It is a sabbath of solemn rest for you, and you shall afflict your souls. It is a statute forever.

Meaning: Embrace the call to genuine reflection and rest. True atonement and cleansing come from heartfelt actions, not just words. Let this verse inspire you to seek deeper spiritual renewal in your daily life.

50) Acts 27:9

Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them

Meaning: When life feels risky and uncertain, remember that wise counsel can be a beacon of hope and direction. Trust in the guidance that comes from a place of deep faith and experience.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Fasting

Applying the Bible's teachings on fasting to daily life can bring profound spiritual growth and a deeper connection with God. It's about integrating these principles into your routine in meaningful and practical ways.

• Start Small: Begin with short fasting periods, like skipping one meal, and gradually increase as you feel comfortable.
• Pray Regularly: Use the time you would spend eating to pray and reflect on your relationship with God.
• Stay Humble: Keep your fasting private and sincere, focusing on your spiritual journey rather than seeking approval from others.
• Seek Guidance: When facing decisions, fast and pray for clarity and direction, just as people did in the Bible.
• Join a Community: Consider fasting with a group or church community to support each other and share the experience.
• Reflect and Repent: Use fasting as a time to reflect on your actions, seek forgiveness, and make positive changes in your life.

Remember, God is always with you, and your faith-driven efforts can lead to incredible transformation. Embrace these practices with an open heart, and you'll find strength and peace in your spiritual journey.

For more prayers and Bible verses, visit PrayersFor or try our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.