Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough: A Guide to Nine Biblical Fasts

Types of Fasts

The Disciple’s Fast: to break spiritual bondage and stand against sin (Matthew 17:21).
The Ezra Fast: Seeking a solution to complex problems or threatening situations (Ezra 8:23).
The Samuel Fast: For revival and evangelism, to be used by God (1 Samuel 7:6).
The Elijah Fast: For emotional healing and ability to overcome sinful and destructive habits (1 Kings 19:4,8).
The Widow’s Fast: To meet humanitarian needs (1 Kings 17:16).
The St. Paul Fast: To seek God’s clarity as we make crucial decisions (Acts 9:9).
The Daniel Fast: For healing or to gain health (Daniel 1:8).
The John the Baptist Fast: To enhance our testimony and influence for Jesus (Luke 1:15).
The Esther Fast: Protection from the evil one (Esther 4:16, 5:2).

When to fast

When facing the judgment of God (Joel 1:14).
During periods of national mourning (1 Samuel 31:11-13).
When communion with Christ is broken (Luke 5:34-35).
When concerned for the welfare of others (Psalm 35:13).
When challenged by personal concerns (2 Samuel 12:15-17).
When facing danger (2 Chronicles 20:2-3).
When engaged in spiritual warfare (Mark 9:29).
When ordaining ministers of the Gospel (Acts 13:2-3).

Why fast