Fasting
Fasting is a practice that allows you to enter into a divine partnership with God. By engaging in fasting and prayer, you are demonstrating your commitment to your family, your own life, and God's purpose on earth.
It is important to recognise that there is a connection between our physical actions and the spiritual blessings that God bestows upon us.
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HEALTH WARNING ABOUT FASTING - MUST READ​
IT IS MOST IMPORTANT THAT YOU SEEK DOCTORS ADVICE BEFORE ANY FAST, AS FASTING FOR LONG TIME PERIODS CAN BE DANGEROUS TO YOUR HEALTH.
Freedom Church Cairns DOES NOT ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO FAST MORE THAN 21 DAYS, IF THEY ARE PREGNANT, HAVE DIABETES, ON MEDICATION THAT NEEDS FOOD, UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE OR ANY OTHER HEALTH CONDITIONS THAT MAY WORSEN IF FASTING...
ALWAYS FOLLOW YOUR DOCTORS ADVICE - NOT OUR ADVICE IN REGARDS TO FASTING...
In the Bible, we see this connection illustrated through the story of Moses. As long as Moses held up his hands with a staff, the battle against Israel's enemies was won. However, when his arms grew weary and he lowered them, the enemies would gain the upper hand. This story teaches us that our physical actions can have a direct impact on our circumstances and the spiritual victory we experience. Fasting, in particular, is a powerful way for Christians to demonstrate their sincerity in desiring change.
Freedom Church Cairns 21 Day Fast:
Every January
We start each year with a 21-day fast for those members who are fit and healthy and able to do this fast
(see above health warning about fasting).
MOST FREEDOM CHURCH MEMBERS ONLY FAST 1-4 DAYS...
Fasting in January is joined to morning prayer, setting the tone for the day by seeking God's will. Prioritising God in every aspect of our lives - be it in our families, finances, or otherwise - will result in His blessings and multiplication. By dedicating the start of the year to prayer and seeking God, we can expect Him to honour our sacrifices and bless us throughout the year!
Begin the year on the good note and experience the benefits of prioritising God! I am eager to witness the work of God in our lives and our nation as we seek Him together.
Make fasting a part of your "lifestyle!" - Jesus said "when you fast" Matt 6:16 NOT "If you fast"
Fasting should not be limited to the start of the year. Make a commitment to fasting, prayer, and giving throughout the year, and witness God's blessings unfold over the entire year. Incorporate fasting as a regular practice in your life and observe how He miraculously opens doors for you.
Biblical fasting is a practice that involves refraining from food for a spiritual purpose. It is one of the three duties of every Christian, along with giving and praying, as stated in the Bible. Engaging in biblical fasting requires discipline and strength, which can only be obtained from God. By dedicating yourself to fasting, prayer, and giving at the beginning of the year, you are setting a course for the entire year and will be rewarded in Heaven, as mentioned in Matthew 6.
There are many reasons why you should consider fasting.
Are you in need of healing or a miracle?
Do you long for the touch of God in your life?
Is there a dream within you that only He can bring to fruition?
Are you seeking a fresh encounter with Him?
Do you desire a deeper, intimate, and powerful relationship with the Lord?
Are you ready to become more sensitive to His desires?
Do you need to break free from the bondages that have been holding you captive?
Is there someone you care about who needs salvation?
Do you yearn to discover God's will for your life?
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Starting with a clear objective is crucial. It is important to be specific about why you are fasting. Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and make it a habit to pray daily and read the Bible.
Preparing yourself spiritually is also essential. Confess your sins to God and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive those who have offended you and seek forgiveness from those you may have offended as well. Surrender your life completely to Jesus Christ and reject any worldly desires that may hinder you.
When it comes to deciding what type of fast to undertake, the choice is yours. You can opt for a full fast where you only consume liquids, or you may choose to fast like Daniel, who abstained from sweets and meats, and only drank water. Remember to replace the time you would spend eating with prayer and Bible study.
The duration of your fast is also up to you. While most people can easily fast for one to three days, you may feel led to go longer, even up to 7 days, 14 days or 21 Days. Seek wisdom and guidance through prayer. It is advisable for beginners to start slowly and do a 1 day fast first. Seek Medical advice before ANY fast.
Seek Medical advice if you are on any medications or have never done a fast before or at risk or have other medical conditions.
1 TIMOTHY 2:1-2
“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”
ROMANS 12:1
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service.”
MATTHEW 6:33
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
ISAIAH 58:6
“[Is] not this the fast that I have chosen to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?”
At Freedom Church Cairns, fasting isn’t a religious ritual—it’s a powerful, biblical discipline that clears the noise, strengthens the spirit, and sharpens our focus on God. When believers fast, they push aside the distractions of the flesh and give their full attention to the voice of the Holy Spirit. It’s a deliberate choice to humble ourselves before God and seek His will with intensity and clarity.
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Fasting is found all throughout Scripture. God’s people fasted in times of decision, spiritual warfare, repentance, and increased hunger for His presence. Jesus Himself fasted, and He taught His disciples to do the same. We follow that example because we’ve seen the impact it has on lives—breakthroughs, restored vision, fresh strength, and renewed passion for God.
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At Freedom Church Cairns, we encourage regular fasting as part of a healthy spiritual lifestyle. Whether it’s a single meal, a day, or an extended season of fasting, the purpose remains the same: draw near to God. Fasting isn’t about starving yourself or performing for others. It’s about removing the comforts that dull your heart so you can pursue God more fully.
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During our fasting seasons, the church gathers for prayer, worship, and focused Bible reading. Many people hear God more clearly during these times because fasting softens the heart and increases spiritual sensitivity. It exposes areas of compromise, breaks unhealthy habits, and builds discipline. It also strengthens your prayers—when you fast, you’re showing God you’re serious about seeking His direction and His power.
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Fasting also brings unity. When the whole church sets aside time to seek God together, something shifts. Faith rises. Hearts align. People are refreshed and refocused. We fast because we want more of God and less of the world’s influence in our lives.
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If you’re ready to grow deeper, gain clarity, and experience spiritual breakthrough, join us in our fasting seasons at Freedom Church Cairns. God rewards those who seek Him with a sincere heart.