Keeping Our Appetites in Check.

Matthew 4:1-11 Fasting drains the body but feeds the soul. Some have said that fasting is praying with the body. Fasting is abstaining from things that are good in order to give greater attention to spiritual concerns. It is one of the most frequently illustrated spiritual exercises in Scripture, occurring in a variety of situations.

Following his baptism, Jesus was led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit. He fasted for forty days and nights. In doing so, he identified with Israel hungering in the wilderness, both spiritually and physically. But when temptation came, another issue came to the fore: What would control Jesus and his mission? He was tempted to allow his own appetites to control him, causing to put his own desires before God's will.

We use food to gain pleasure, to reward ourselves, to distract ourselves from sadness, or even to display prosperity. Once we begin to see the many messages of food, we realize that it has as much effect on us spiritually as it does physically. And if we are not careful, we can allow our hunger for food, and our appetites, to completely control us.

When we lose control over our use of time and money, or over purity of thought, speech, or actions, we open ourselves up to all sorts of trouble. The spiritual discipline of biblical fasting can help us to overcome the magnetic pull of our appetites and align our lives with God's purposes and values.

At the end of Jesus' fast, his response to Satan's temptations clarifies the proper outlook on life, which gives us a proper outlook on food: "People need more than bread for their life; they must feed on every word of God" (Matthew 4:4). Jesus obeyed the will of God before he observed his stomach, and so should we.

Putting It into Practice
An extended fast, meaning one that lasts beyond twenty-four hours, can sometimes be helpful for realigning our priorities with God's desires. Such fasts which, may last as long as seventy-two hours, definitely require physical stamina and spiritual preparation. As with any exercise, it is wise to start small and work your way up. To attempt an extended fast before you are truly ready can be unhealthy and possibly end in failure and discouragement in your spiritual walk.
Thought should be given to functioning with a reduced energy level. Breaking such fasts also requires intentional planning. When you begin eating again, eat small amounts of food that are easily digestible. Avoid spicy or greasy foods.
Your fast should always be accompanied by the practice of other disciplines such as prayer and Bible study so that proper focus is maintained throughout this special time. Be sure to enter your thoughts and reflections in your journal.

For more on fasting, read Matthew 6.