Mormons set aside one day each month to abstain from food and water for two meals and then donate what they would have spent on food and water to the poor. As a Mormon I’ve always heard fasting should be both food and water. However, I came across an interesting quote today.
President Heber J Grant stated in an official declaration:
When fasting, members of the Church are advised to abstain from two meals each Fast Day . . . also by prayer in connection with fasting to develop spiritual power. No direct instruction is given in the Doctrine and Covenants regarding abstaining from water while fasting. In the Bible there are three references in connection with fasting and abstaining from water. These are: Exodus 34:28 and Deuteronomy 9:9-18, where it states that Moses “did neither eat bread nor drink water”; and Esther 4:16, where Esther asked the Jews to fast for her and to “neither eat nor drink.”
The spirit of fasting is the main thing to encourage. Too much stress should not be laid on technical details, but the self denial of food, striving for spiritual strength and donating for the benefit of the poor should constantly be in mind. (Published statement from the First Presidency of the Church, March 26, 1932) MOFP5:307-08
I also came across a few interesting medical articles that stated fasting from food and not excluding liquid leads to greater health. You can view these interesting articles here and here.
For people of other faiths this may sound trivial, but as long as I’ve been LDS I’ve always heard fasting should be both food and water and it isn’t complete without both.
Personally I feel the same way that President Grant does. It’s really between us and God and if we feel good about our fast we shouldn’t worry. I feel that our fast shouldn’t be merely for medical purposes but for coming closer to God.
I’d love to hear your thoughts though.
Do you feel that a fast can be complete without abstaining from water? What do you do to make your fast complete? What are your thoughts on the scientific studies?
Grace for Grace 
91 comments
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May 13, 2009 at 4:28 am
JA Benson
Thank you for your post. Now I have “a Prophet says” justification for my choices. When I fast, I do so with prayer and with water. I have a condition that requires me to drink a lot of water.
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August 1, 2012 at 8:47 pm
MafyTheGreat
Not getting enough of these nutrients during fasting diets can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, constipation, dehydration, gallstones, and cold intolerance. But this symptoms will give you the knowledge that your body is now detoxifying the toxins in your body..
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May 13, 2009 at 4:33 am
BrianJ
I used to abstain from water as well as food and never in my life did I have a good experience from fasting. Not even once. Always dreaded it, feeling totally lethargic the whole time. Then one day I decided to only abstain from food but drink whenever thirsty and it was a wonderful spiritual experience. Now I look forward to fast Sunday, and even look for other occasions to fast as well.
My thoughts on the science, as a scientist, is that the studies are far more preliminary than the news reports would have you think.
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May 13, 2009 at 3:23 pm
Bro. Jones
I get sick very, very quickly if I don’t drink (literally) at least a gallon of water per day. Even a single day of abstaining from water will leave me with a sore throat and constipated. So after a brief experimentation with “dry” fasting, I’ve decided to drink water on Fast Sundays and never look back.
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May 13, 2009 at 3:35 pm
ama49
Brian and Benson,
Thanks for sharing this with us. You’re excellent examples of being true to yourselves as well as working on your relationship with God. That’s what it’s all about.
The way I look at it, when I fast it is like an offering to God. I offer my best sacrifice and for many of us our best doesn’t have to include water. What are your thoughts on not even including food but something else instead like not watching T.V. or something like that? I’m sure there are some people who can’t go without food or water but they can still develop spirituality through sacrificing something in a “fast”.
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May 13, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Craig W.
I was taught that fasting meant abstaining from both food and water. I have always, my whole life, struggled with fasting. I can get terrible headaches. The magic elixir, I discovered recently, is to have a occasional drink of water. After years of not fasting, I am finding now, that with water, I can make it through a fast. It is very difficult for me to make it a complete 24 hours. I usually only make it 20 hours. But I am fasting more often now. The only problem is that I feel guilty for taking a drink or two. Oh well.
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May 13, 2009 at 6:09 pm
Bill
I grew up all over the United States and attended many wards. The first time I heard that fasting included abstaining from water was when I read it in the missionary discussions.
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May 14, 2009 at 12:20 am
jack
I think the important thing is not to be legalistic. Also, it’s important not to judge one’s spirituality based on whether they can do a dry fast as well. As I am not a Mormon, have any of you considered that one could fast from other things besides food? I know that the Bible only gives fasting from food as examples, but there are those who fast things like television, music, or anything that can come between an idol for them. When I was a Mormon, and fasted on fast Sundays, I always saw it as me telling my body that it wasn’t in control, that the Spirit was in control. So, I saw it in symbolic terms, as well. When I fast, I still fast from food and water most of the time and for 24 hours, but some people fast only one meal. I think fasting is between the person and God, and that they do it not to receive something in return, but to strengthen their relationship with God. I think it would do us well to remember the fasting described in Isaiah 58. As with all things, it’s a matter of the heart, and our motives for fasting should be pure–not because we have to, but because we want to.
Peace and Grace!
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November 11, 2012 at 11:13 am
Jason Campbell
Jack great comment. We need you back in the church!
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May 14, 2009 at 1:43 am
Jonathan
I just found your blog today, and I love it. I sense as I read that you have been through a spiritual journey similar to mine and have come to appreciate other Christian denominations in the process. I love that!
While I am a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and believe it to be God’s restored Church, I love learning about other denominations and greatly respect their faith and examples.
I also appreciate the fact that you allow yourself to think “outside the bubble” while maintaining a dedication to revealed doctrine–an attitude that many view as apostasy. It takes guts, and it takes heart.
Thank you!
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May 14, 2009 at 1:45 am
Jonathan
And I should add that I don’t necessarily agree with everything you have written. But guess what–that’s okay!
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May 14, 2009 at 2:43 am
Bookslinger
Medically speaking, a medical fast does not mean abstaining from water. It was several weeks after I joined the church before I learned that the Mormon definition included abstaining from water.
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May 14, 2009 at 2:54 am
DavidH
The wife of our mission president where I served in Mexico strongly recommended that missionaries drink water while fasting.
I think whether we can drink water while fasting is like the question whether practicing LDS should avoid R-rated movies or pay tithing on the net or on the gross. The subject can be debated, but I think it is the spirit that counts (as President Grant says).
One can point to official sources that suggest avoiding water while fasting. The official website of the Church states that: “Proper observance of fast Sunday includes going without food and drink for two consecutive meals, attending fast and testimony meeting, and giving a fast offering to help care for those in need.” (Gospel Topics: Fasting and Fast Offerings)
What does it mean to avoid food and drink? I do not consider it a violation of the fast when I take medication (and water to wash it down) while fasting or take the sacrament during the period of the fast. I suppose I could defend this by arguing that they are not “food or drink.” But I think a better defense goes to the spirit of the fast.
I think the official guidance–abstaining from food and drink for two consecutive meals–should be read in light of President Grant’s comments on the spirit of the fast. I think the wife of my mission president was right, and that it is within our revelatory right to determine whether we should not drink water during the period of the fast.
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May 14, 2009 at 4:49 am
ama49
Hey Jonathan,
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your honest feedback. I’m sure there are many people who don’t agree with everything I have to say, but one thing I think most people who visit this blog all agree with and have in common is a witness of Jesus as our Savior as given to us from the Holy Ghost. In my opinion, that is what really matters.
As we all share experiences and learn and grow together I’ve found that I come closer to God and others do as well. It’s pretty cool.
Feel free to stop by and share your experiences anytime. All are welcome as long as they’re respectful.
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May 14, 2009 at 4:52 am
ama49
Bookslinger and Bill,
I find that amazing that you didn’t hear it had to be both food and water.
Personally, I agree with Jack in the sense we can be too legalistic…I also agree we don’t necessarily have to abstain from food or water but we can choose to abstain from other things. The important thing is that we’re trying to humble ourselves and come closer to God, in my opinion.
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May 14, 2009 at 4:54 am
ama49
David,
I don’t think I’ve seen you here before. Welcome!
I agree with your comments. I got a good chuckle over your comment about R movies and tithing.
What you say about it being more about the spirit of the fast is right on, in my opinion.
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May 14, 2009 at 1:59 pm
john f.
re jack:
Fasting for Mormons is typically about food and water but you will find statements from past church leaders a century ago or more to the effect of also abstaining from sexual relations during the fast.
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May 14, 2009 at 4:26 pm
jack
john f:
Thanks for your input. I did not know that. I know people who fast from sex; unfortunately, they were usually single people who shouldn’t be having sex, anyway. 🙂 Go figure…
Peace and Grace!
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May 15, 2009 at 4:26 am
ama49
Ha! Jack you’re a funny one. Thanks for the humor.
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May 15, 2009 at 7:44 pm
gloria
Abstaining from water can lead to illness, getting sick, etc. I definately would not give up water in a fast. Especially for youth or the elderly. I also believe that fasting can include other things other than food – perhaps the computer, sugar, etc. It doesn’t have to be just food.
Just my .02,
gloria
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May 18, 2009 at 4:38 pm
Notes From All Over - thru May 17 | Times & Seasons, An Onymous Mormon Blog
[…] Water Not Included in Fasting […]
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June 8, 2009 at 7:45 pm
a guy Nathan
Thanks for the post. I recall once fasting for a special experience in the temple when I would do some work for a cousin. I was in the middle of a move that day so my fast was not at all from food or drink but a fastening of my thoughts Godward on the object of my desire.
That was perhaps my first good fast since my mission and perhaps my second good fast ever. I would scarcely have remembered what I was denying myself food an water for had I had the opportunity to deny myself these things. I’m glad I couldn’t “fast” so I really could. Because I hadn’t yet learned that spiritual fasting is a mental thing rather than an abstinence thing.
I’ve since been so into my spiritual need of mental focus that food was a distraction. Sometimes I’ve been wise enough to abstain so my spiritual fasting could proceed without distraction. Those are the times that I am truly fasting. I should do it more often.
And now I think I’ll drink more water on fast Sundays and get over the guilt. I’ll be a better person for your blog. Again, thank you. Very much.
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June 30, 2009 at 1:21 am
kph
a guy Nathan’s comment intrigues me. I am trying to put this all together in my head because I havent successfully fasted for decades. When I try, I make 8-12 hours -16 tops. “…spiritual fasting is a mental thing rather than an abstinence thing.” I also like his comment about food being a “distraction.” I recently discovered the addictions I have had over the years (really breaking the Word of Wisdom) now include certain foods. I’m scared to try fasting at all, but I also know that I am much more in control of my physical body since abstaining from certain substances that have been like poison to my own personal system, in foods. Back twenty years ago, I heard an old woman say she understood the law of the fast, but she could not abstain from food for medical reasons so she said, “I eat something I dont like.” I dont even know how to put that together in my understanding of fasting, but I put it out there for you. What I’m trying to piece together in my head is how I have gotten my body under control since abstaining from certain substances all the time, now. Even my mental functioning is better. I am hoping this is all part of what there is to learn about how we put our bodies in the way of our spirits. I think as I get healthier over the next few weeks, I will try to “go to bed hungry” -begin my fast after my Noon meal on Sat, then get up, go to church and –since my mornings are my easiest time to be without food on any given day, see if I can be at the height of my fast before Noon again on Sun. I dont mean to make this such a technical analysis, but I am amazed what I have learned about certain food substances I have been putting in my body, and now I have more control abstaining from them every single hour! I’m sure I can learn something about compassion in this manner. The Lord doesnt need our fasting, we get “closer” to Him thru understanding His children, having charity, compassion, and serving their needs.
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July 13, 2009 at 9:06 pm
Tom Haws
Other than the Biblical references mentioned, it seems that the water-free fast idea may have stemmed from a desire to make the fast “harder” or more of a sacrifice or self-punishment. This fits in with the LDS tradition a lot of us were raised in.
But in my experience, since I learned about longer fasting and various fasting practices, fasting is not self- punishment, but more self-pampering. When I have fasted for longer periods with water and enemas and preparation I have felt truly blessed in all ways.
I look forward to the day when the LDS tradition will vocally encourage water during fasts and skilled, careful multi-week fasts. And in the LDS way, maybe that will even include Stake Fasting Specialists. 🙂
Tom
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September 6, 2009 at 9:18 pm
markjc
It never fails to amase me how people can look at , say a tree, and see the dead branches and fail to see the living parts.
where in the world do you get the silly notion that president Grant was giving the “all clear” to DRINK during a fast???
what absurd BUNK! The EXAMPLES president Grant gave,… ALL included references to ADDITIONALLY abstaining from “drink” as well as meals (food). You “people” could twist a diamond into dust! he was giving examples af WHY we include NOT DRINKING during a fast! and YOU KNOW it!
so , if it ONLY says “meals” GOD allows “slim fast”???? it’s not “really a meal is it???????? just a “drink”? Get Real!!!
He simply admitted that the “D&C” did not contain a specific reference to abstaining from drink, BUT since GOD is the same, yesterday, today and forever….president Grant gave THREE examples of GOD’S word on the subject…no food, NO drink…. did Joeseph or the LORD feel they need to command in ALL things? not hardly!
see Doctrine and Covenants 58:26
For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.
if you NEED more examples I guess president Grant should have quoted Matt. 5: 6. or 3 Ne. 12: 6………. BOTH say “hunger and thirst after righteousness” …how can you “thirst” if you are DRINKING??
so, how many of YOU are better than MOSES? Jesus was baptized, do ANY of us have an excuse? Moses fasted, both food and drink, so what have YOU done GREATER than MOSES that you are allowed to drink and HE not?
the wicked in heart will find a way to disobey. enjoy…… no reward.
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September 7, 2009 at 5:11 am
mark
why dont you want the truth told?
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September 7, 2009 at 5:34 am
mark
so only people that agree with the silly interpretation are allowed?
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September 7, 2009 at 8:42 pm
ama49
Whew Mark,
Looks like you have some anger in your comments if I’m interpreting your capital letters correctly. Before we start throwing stones at each other take a little time to cool off and get the Holy Spirit into your heart. If the spirit then prompts you to write something out of love and concern go ahead and do it.
If you did indeed feel the spirit and you feel prompted to share what you shared, perhaps chose a way that’s less condenscending.
Now, what you said does hold merrit though. We really need to make sure when we fast we’re doing it in the right spirit and not just because we want to drink water. The norm is no food or water, but if needed we can change it up due to health issues, etc. that people have shared.
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September 8, 2009 at 4:05 am
markjc
yes i do. it does upset me to see the words of a prophet twisted… i should try a softer approach
i guess i was like jesus clearing the temple
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September 8, 2009 at 5:12 am
ama49
Hi Mark,
I can see how you would feel that way. However, many people suffer guilt when they don’t have to. The spirit of the fast is what’s most important, as the prophet stated. If you have the correct spirit about you, you’ll do all you can to have the best fast possible. It’s very personal…like prayer between God and the individual. It’s not up to us to judge another person’s fast.
Also, you were like Jesus clearing the temple…except you’re not Jesus!
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September 10, 2009 at 4:07 am
mark
i am not in deed and thought, but i at least need to try to be like him and not twist a prophets words to make me feel better about my choices.
its between a bishop and the person
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September 10, 2009 at 4:13 am
ama49
Mark,
I’ll quote the prophet once more and not add any of my commentary. You decide how you want to interpret the prophets council on whether to drink water or not. Again, here is the quote:
“No direct instruction is given in the Doctrine and Covenants regarding abstaining from water while fasting…”
“The spirit of fasting is the main thing to encourage. Too much stress should not be laid on technical details, but the self denial of food, striving for spiritual strength and donating for the benefit of the poor should constantly be in mind.”
Also, I disagree with you. It’s between an individual and God. Not the bishop.
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February 7, 2010 at 5:00 pm
Pat Texidor
For a “restored” church that came into existence for the purpose of clarifying and renewing the Christian Faith there is a lot of confusion, disagreement, anger and turmoil…not much different than any other organization…church or otherwise. And this is not even over what I surmise to be a critical issue. One person talks about a “revelatory right”; another talks about a Bishop’s authority to tell you what to think; another talks about a Prophet saying one thing and another says the same Prophet’s teaching says something completely different. If it is true that “God is the same yesterday, today and forever…” then He sure has been changing His mind a lot. In fact, He changes His mind depending on whose mind is thinking and interpreting at that moment. I am not a Mormon (as you can probably tell). I came across this site in search of the “official” doctrine on Mormon fasting. My sister is a Mormon and needed to take medication and brought up the issue of fasting as pretext for not taking the it. She ended up relenting and taking the medication with a small sip of water. I just wanted to check that she was not violating some rule that would put her (in her mind) at odds with her beliefs. I frankly resent the emotional damage the Mormon Church keeps on inflicting on my sister…the guilt, the sense of dependency, the baseless dogma which is merely the result of a history of hodge-podge, slap-together-as-you-go doctrines that change as convenience dictates.
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February 26, 2010 at 5:45 am
ama49
Hi Pat,
Welcome to the site and thank you for sharing your feelings.
I’m sure that if God were here today he would run things differently than the organization that is…as you rightly point out…run by men. The beauty of having a personal relationship with God is that you can have that independent of other people. The way I look at it is prophets and the scriptures are there for our benefit. God wants us to be happy. Guidlines are given, but it is up to us to decide in certain things what is best for us. Things such as fasting, giving to the poor, loving our neighbors, etc. are up to us to decide what and how to do it and it is a personal thing between us and God.
It sounds like your sister would do well to develop a closer relationship with God and less dependence on the bishop or church leaders…at least from your description of the issue. I have seen many Mormons who unfortunately rely on the leaders more than on God. If your sister prays and feels she can drink water or other things while she fasts and feels the good Lord approves, then she should feel good about it. The important thing is the spirit behind the fast…not the way you fast.
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February 17, 2010 at 6:14 pm
FFEJ616
My question about fasting has to do with “two consecutive meals”. I assume this is based on the societal assumption of eating 3 meals per day. I however, eat five or six meals per day – a meal about every three hours given my excerise regime. Anyway, does this mean for me that I can start eating in the afternoon after fasting through the morning since I do skip two consecutive meals? Probably not, but just wondering what your thoughts were.
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February 26, 2010 at 5:48 am
ama49
My thoughts are to do what you feel is right with the Lord. The spirit of the fast is to sacrifice something and give to someone who is in need and also develop a more spiritual relationship with the Lord. If it is a sacrifice for you to skip one meal and that’s all you can do, then praise God! If it is more, then it’s all good. My feeling is that the Lord isn’t keeping a tally of how many meals we skip. He’s concerned about our hearts and why we are fasting and how we are using it to grow closer to him while helping others.
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December 2, 2010 at 6:28 pm
Tom Haws
I think that the LDS general authorities would generally agree that “two consecutive meals” is merely a custom, as is the water abstinence (I analyze this at http://tomsthird.blogspot.com/2010/12/ancient-fasting-and-lds-fasting.html).
Sadly, the people lose immense blessings when they think they can’t fast a few weeks because they think fasting means no water.
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January 7, 2011 at 7:08 am
Chris
If it’s a choice between fasting with water or not at all, fasting with water is a better choice. 🙂
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January 31, 2011 at 1:26 am
Relief Society Lesson #25: Fasting |
[…] https://graceforgrace.com/2009/05/12/mormon-prophet-says-abstaining-from-water-in-fast-not-necessary-… […]
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June 5, 2011 at 3:37 pm
Austin
I have found that the fast is much more rewarding when both food and water are eliminated for a 24 hour period of time. Note that all of the general authorities abstain from both food and water for 24 hours usually starting Saturday afternoon.
While I was on my mission, we taught to abstain from food and water for two meals–but that essentially means 24 hours.
I love fasting because I feel an increased spiritual strength and a closer connection to God and my true desires.
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September 20, 2011 at 12:49 pm
Stuart
You know why the authority of god was taken from the earth? It has something to do with taking a simple law of God and adjusting it to our suiting because it was “too difficult to live”. From reading these blogs those of you who are LDS…shame on you. You claim to love the Savior but deny His doctrine. A more recent Prophet – President Howard W. Hunter, who I presume you sustained, said this:
“Members of the Church may fast at any time as they have a need, but the fast contemplated on the day referred to as fast day, as defined by President Joseph F. Smith, ‘is that food and drink are not to be partaken of for twenty-four hours, ‘from even to even.” ‘ From even to even has been given the meaning of going without two meals—from the evening meal on the night before to evening meal on fast day.”
I hope you caught site of the part ‘food and drink are not to be partaken’? I have a wife who requires daily medication but would never offend God by watering down His doctrine. Her faith ensures the windows of Heaven remain open to us as a family and our willingness to offer a small sacrifice is noted by the Lord himself.
Your comments are offensive to God and to break the covenants you have made put you at risk. As adults you should be able to control yourselves and your appetites. If you find fasting that hard then I suggest you spend the time you are fasting doing things that do not use up all your energy or make you thirsty and instead pray for the strength to endure. If you will do this, I promise you will have a fulfilling fast and the spirit of the Lord will fill you and support you. You will not be forsaken in your fast but lifted up. Its time you ‘Walked the Walk’ instead of just ‘Talking the Talk’.
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September 20, 2011 at 10:16 pm
graceforgrace
Stuart,
You are definitely a letter of the law kind of guy, which is fine. Sure the ideal is to follow the fast as the prophets have outlined, but in certain cases, I do not think God condemns those who choose to fast with an honest and sincere heart in a different way.
I hope you stick around and keep leaving comments with other posts because your perspective is one that many Mormons have. Both you and the readers can learn some things from each other. One thing I do recommend in the future is to try and be less condemning. Let God be the judge.
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February 12, 2012 at 5:42 am
noblenarcissist
I have found that the more I observe fasting, the easier it becomes. The first time I fasted it was very hard to go a day without food. Later I fasted for three days and then for a week. It is possible for the “weakest of saints” to fast for extended periods, if they are patient and allow their bodies to build up to it. I doubt Moses or Jesus fasted 40 days on their first attempt. Most who are able to endure an extended fast of that nature are truly devoted to serving and pleasing God. That is one reason the scriptures mention these fasts, to give us reverence for these men.
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February 15, 2012 at 6:33 pm
graceforgrace
Noblenarcissist,
Are you telling me you fasted for a week without food or water???
Intense!
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February 15, 2012 at 6:57 pm
noblenarcissist
Without food, not without water. I know a few guys who fasted for 40 days! Also a woman I know told me she fasted for three months, to cure herself of a health problem.
About the “no food or drink”, I’m starting to think when it talks of drink, it may be referring to wine. That was the traditional drink in Jesus’ day and may have been during Moses’ day as well. I’ve heard that the water was often too polluted to drink, so you drank wine. The problem with this idea is that Nazirites would die of thirst, since they didn’t drink wine. So fresh water must have been available and people generally just preferred to drink wine. I can understand why wine would be forbidden during a fast, since it is basically a food. Exceptions must be made if your doing an extended fast. If you fast for a week or more, you still take the sacrament (which is both bread and water/wine).
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February 15, 2012 at 7:08 pm
graceforgrace
What you say about wine makes sense.
As you may have already read, I’m of the opinion that it doesn’t matter what we fast from as long as our heart is in the right place.
By the way, I like your site. It doesn’t look like you allow people to comment on your blog though. I liked your charts you had up there about church membership.
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February 15, 2012 at 7:21 pm
noblenarcissist
Really?! I thought commenting was enabled. I will have to fix that.
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February 15, 2012 at 7:28 pm
noblenarcissist
I just checked and commenting is enabled. You should be able to click on the “Leave a comment” link just under the heading of the article. It’s just not the easiest thing to see.
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August 14, 2014 at 6:17 am
Jan
I have learned to just go forward when I have a fast that is ‘interrupted’ because I NEED water. And from when nursing my babies (at which time I didn’t stop eating/drinking), I learned to seek the Spirit of fasting, gave up all desserts/sugar for 24 hours. To me, the spirit of fasting and prayer comes first, then going without food, then without water as able (many chemical reactions in the body need water, thus I might have times when water is necessary). But if I can’t go without food because of illness, or etc, I make sure to give up desserts/sugar for 24 hours, and keep going on the spirit of fasting.
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August 18, 2014 at 5:31 am
graceforgrace
Jan,
That is a very good idea-to fast from sugar. We should just fast from sugar all the time. Think how much healthier we’d be!
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February 12, 2012 at 5:13 am
noblenarcissist
It all depends on your reason for fasting. If you’re fasting to feed the poor, then fasting from water won’t do them much good, since the amount of water you drink probably doesn’t cost a whole lot (unless you buy bottled water). Apparently there is some added spiritual value in fasting from water.
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February 12, 2012 at 5:18 am
noblenarcissist
Seems the Catholic’s also have a fast in which you eat and drink nothing but bread and water. There are different degrees of fasting. Let him who is able to receive, receive it.
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February 18, 2012 at 5:58 pm
Cal
noblenarcissist said, “I have found that the more I observe fasting, the easier it becomes. The first time I fasted it was very hard to go a day without food. Later I fasted for three days and then for a week.”
Interesting. . . . I haven’t fasted for more than 2 or 3 days.
What’s it like past the third day?
What are the spiritual benefits according to your experience? I become more in tune with God’s voice when I’m fasting—so it’s good for guidance.
It also gives me more energy, and more time.
Paul’s suggested fast from sex (with the wife’s concurrence) was “so that you may devote yourselves to prayer” (1 Cor. 7:5).
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February 18, 2012 at 6:55 pm
noblenarcissist
The first time I fasted for 3 days, I felt so sick and weak on the 3rd day. When I fasted for seven days (several years later), I found that after the first few days, you don’t think about food that much. It gets easier with each passing day. I don’t recall having any profound revelations or visions from my fasting experiences, but it did cause me to think less about things of the flesh and so it gave me greater opportunity to study and pray with focus. So I agree with Paul’s statement that fasting is “so that you may devote yourselves to prayer”. Also, it would seem fasting from sex would be a given if you’re fasting from food, especially if your fast lasts a number of days, since fasting lowers the sex drive. Fasting and prayer seem to be the method Joseph of Egypt used to avoid falling prey to Potiphar’s wife. In the apocryphal book “The Testament of Joseph” it reads,
“But I remembered the words of my father, and going into my chamber, I wept and prayed unto the Lord. And I fasted in those seven years, and I appeared to the Egyptians as one living delicately, for they that fast for God’s sake receive beauty of face. And if my lord were away from home, I drank no wine; nor for three days did I take my food, but I gave it to the poor and sick.”
It seems Joseph used fasting to give him power over his flesh and he used prayer to give him power over his mind. Apparently this is something his father had taught him to do. Remember he left home when he was 17, so it would seem his father played a very active role in teaching him in all aspects of righteousness.
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February 19, 2012 at 5:16 pm
Cal
That’s all quite interesting. You sound like a man after God’s own heart—like David.
I, too, have noticed that fasting helps overcome the flesh.
I’ve never heard of “The Testament of Joseph.” Do the scholars feel confident it is authentic? If so, why?
Our God is an awesome God!
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February 19, 2012 at 6:27 pm
noblenarcissist
I have prayed to God that he’d give me his heart and it does seem that he’s given me what I’ve asked for to some measure. I know if we hope, pray and endure to the end, he will ultimately shape us in his image, which is a great gift indeed!
The Testament of Joseph is part of a group of books called “Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs.” See the wiki article here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Testaments_of_the_Twelve_Patriarchs
I don’t care so much what scholars feel about a book’s authenticity. If I did, I’d have to discount the Book of Mormon as the word of God and depending on what scholar I was talking with, I might even have to ignore the Bible on that criteria.
The way I determine if a book/idea is authentically from God is by his Spirit. I go in with an open mind, but if a book seems to contradict other scripture, I either regard that book as either total garbage or if the contradiction is minor, I may just write it off as a translation/copy error. The Bible is full of translation errors, yet I still hold it to be the word of God. With the Book of Mormon, I take it a the word of God, since I believe the Prophet Joseph Smith was a prophet and he said the Book of Mormon was pure.
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February 19, 2012 at 6:34 pm
noblenarcissist
I just realized there is an element of fasting that I’ve been skipping. Giving the food I would have eaten to the poor. This is going to make fasting even more rewarding.
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February 20, 2012 at 6:21 pm
Cal
I think your method of determining the authenticity of books is excellent.
I discovered the worthiness of the Book of Mormon the same way you did—by the Spirit.
I’ll check out your link when I get a chance.
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February 26, 2012 at 2:22 pm
noblenarcissist
On Thursday night I came down with some kind of sickness, so I decided to start fasting on Friday to see what effect it would have on it. Since I was sick, I continued to drink water with an Emergen-C packet or two per day (so not a strict fast). Here are my observations.
First I’ll describe the physical experiences (which my illness is at least partially responsible for). Even on Friday I noticed my energy level was significantly diminished. I also didn’t have the same pain tolerance and since my body was trying to conserve energy, it was harder to stay warm. At first I thought the fasting was shortening the length of my flu, but here it is Sunday and I’m still sick, although the sickness has morphed some. It was more of a stomach sickness at first and now congestion has moved into my head and the stomach sickness is more subsided. I usually have some bloating in my stomach, but most of that is gone now. I also lost a significant amount of weight. I went from around 165 lbs on Friday down to 153 today (Sunday). That’s 12 lbs in 3 days! Any dieter would be proud, but I’m kind of on the thin side, so it requires somewhat of a sacrifice of my physical image. However, I wouldn’t expect everyone to have such sharp declines in weight. I attribute a good portion of that weight loss to the sickness.
Ok, now onto the spiritual experiences. I have felt it is easier to resist evil and do good. In fact, despite my lower energy levels, I was able to stick to a project I felt God desired me to work on all day, rather than quitting on it mid-day. I’ve also gained a greater awareness of what it means to sacrifice (since fasting is a form of sacrifice). It’s caused me to ponder the sacrifice of Abraham more. (I’ll have to write a blog about that soon.) It also has made me aware of how judgmental I can be. When you’re sacrificing it’s easy to expect others to sacrifice too, but that’s force, which is not God’s way. So I have had to do some spiritual repenting. Judgement is the Lord’s!
In conclusion, I feel the physical experiences (as profound as they may be) have made far less impact on my life than the spiritual experiences. If you’re going to fast, fast to the Lord and he will bless with you knowledge and wisdom. This is one of the secrets the prophets knew about and how they drew close to God when they needed guidance. God doesn’t usually just randomly bless us though, he usually requires us to make specific petitions. What you ask, ask carefully, because he will sometimes grant us things we desire to our detriment as a learning experience. These are they kinds of experiences which build faith and if you build your faith up as a rock, nothing shall shake your foundation.
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February 29, 2012 at 9:43 pm
graceforgrace
Hi Noble,
I liked that you shared how you fasted. I completely agree with you that as long as your heart is in it, you don’t necessarily have to have a “strict” fast to reap the spiritual blessings and come closer to God.
thanks for sharing!
P.S. I hope you’re feeling better.
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February 29, 2012 at 10:15 pm
John Peterson
Grace,
Well, to be honest the sickness has lasted much longer than usual. I usually kick a sickness in 2 or 3 days. This one is going on a week and I’m still not clear of it. Maybe that’s what I get for trying to fast through a sickness. I’m thinking I may have put my body into some kind of power cleanse. That’s great and all, but my nose is starting to get angry 🙂
I am trying to move more towards an alkaline diet. I’m not sure if you’ve ever heard of the acid/alkaline PH balance. Hopefully that will mean less (or no) sickness in the future. Time will tell.
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February 29, 2012 at 9:04 pm
Cal
Very good, noble. (I’ll call you noble for short, since our words are powerful. I want to speak positive words to you because they will lift you up in the Spirit. I don’t want to be in the Accuser’s seat.)
I’m glad fasting is helping you become more like our precious Savior and increasing your faith.
I believe you are correct that God usually requires us to make specific requests. He loves it when we ask, so that he can show us his faithfulness, compassion, ability to provide, etc. “You have not because you ask not,” said James.
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February 29, 2012 at 10:10 pm
John Peterson
Continuing, James says,
“Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.” (James 4:3)
That’s the part about being careful about what you ask for. God certainly has the choice to give or not to give. If he doesn’t think it’s going to help you spiritually, he’s probably not going to aid you in your sins.
About the nickname. It’s an old handle I’ve used for years. It’s not really the way I’d describe myself now either. I’m certainly trying to get away from narcissism and move more towards co-dependency 😉
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March 1, 2012 at 6:15 am
Cal
Speaking of “less (or no) sickness in the future,” does the LDS teach that Jesus purchased power over sickness for us just as he purchased forgiveness, power over sin, and eternal life? That’s what we teach in the pentecostal/charismatic movement—that healing is in the atonement (1 Peter 2:24; Matt. 8:17; Isaiah 53:4).
The Seventh Article of Faith of the LDS states you believe in healing but doesn’t elaborate.
Is co-dependency on God okay? Have a great day . . . John. 🙂
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March 1, 2012 at 5:51 pm
John Peterson
The LDS church teaches that Jesus CAN heal us physically, but it doesn’t teach that he WILL heal us just because we join His church. However, it is my personal belief that Jesus is the great healer and that when we follow the spiritual teachings taught by Him that we will begin to heal spiritually. With this spiritual healing comes the knowledge and power of how to heal physically. Remember that the New Testament says that the sign of healing will follow those who are true disciples of Christ. But then it also says prophecy will too. I think the two kind of go hand in hand. The scriptures as we have them now simply don’t provide the full picture about how to heal ourselves. If they do, it’s one of those hidden mysteries. Thus I see the need for the Holy Ghost revealing further light and knowledge either in interpreting scripture to us or writing new scripture into our minds and hearts. I believe the examples of fasting and prayer are hints at how to heal ourselves physically, but I know there is a whole lot more to God’s health handbook than that.
I don’t think co-dependency on God is possible. He doesn’t need us like we need Him 🙂 It’s absolute dependency when it comes to our relationship with God. The co-dependency I mentioned referred to the relationship amongst fellow believers in God.
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March 3, 2012 at 7:14 am
Cal
Hi John.
You’re certainly right about co-dependency with God! I was kidding about that, as you detected.
I can see the Lord is revealing things to you about healing. You seem to be somewhat of an independent thinker like me—though not independent of God of course!
I “happened” to be introduced to the books of one Kenneth E. Hagin before I became a Christian and I continued to read his very inspirational writings after becoming a Christian. God called him to specialize in physical healing through faith in Christ and he served in ministry for over 50 years.
He discovered, as I have in my own life, that healing can be received by faith—the same way any of the other blessings the Father bought for us through Jesus are received. I’ll paste to this comment a testimony of a little healing I received about one and half years ago:
In the vicinity of 20 years ago I developed a raised mole to the left of my left eye. I remember distinctly how it started. There was a little injury to the skin, and the resulting scab got ripped off prematurely and the area never healed normally.
All these years the mole has been a bit of an irritation to me because (1) it didn’t look good, (2) it had been very slowly growing during the years prior to 2010, and (3) it was a constant reminder to me when I looked in the mirror that my faith wasn’t strong enough to make it go.
I had nonchalantly prayed for it to go several times through the years. Mark 11:23 says, “If anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.” And Matthew 8:17 says that Jesus “took up our infirmities and carried our diseases.” Jesus took my mole upon himself so there was no reason for me to continue to carry it.
I kept thinking that someday I would get serious about praying for it—maybe fast from food if necessary.
Early in the summer of 2010 I decided to get serious about it. Every time I thought of the mole I would say, “Wart, I command you to die in Jesus’ name. Father, I ask you to take it away in Jesus name.” (I had incorrectly called it a wart at that time.) And I’d declare, “The wart is gone in Jesus’ name. It has to go.” (I said it in every way possible just to make sure!) Then I examined it every day to see if there was any progress. After about 3 weeks or so gave up because there was no progress.
Another week or so went by. Then I tried another idea. I thought maybe looking at it every day was destroying my faith. And that I should focus just on what God’s Word has to say about it.
So I went into daily prayer again. Every time I thought of the mole I would say something like, “Wart, I command you to die, in Jesus’ name. You are gone in the name of Jesus. Jesus bore my wart and every other kind of disease upon himself on the cross, and he is more powerful than the wart.” And this time, I forced myself not to look at it. This went on for what seemed like two weeks. (By the way, I remember at one point having a sense of something stirring in my heart when I told it to go in Jesus name. It seemed like the Spirit had placed faith in my heart to back up my words.)
After about two weeks, I happened to glance at it by accident and it looked like it was half gone! I still did not look at it closely though. I thought, I’m on a roll—I’m not quitting now.
Then after what seemed like another two weeks—about the last week of August—I dared to look at closely. It was practically ALL GONE!!
And now it’s completely gone.
God is good!
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March 3, 2012 at 7:43 am
John Peterson
Very interesting story! It’s our logical mind that wants to look, because it really doesn’t believe such things can happen, so it wants to verify that they didn’t happen. Funny how when you force the logical mind to turn off, how the wonders of faith can be achieved. This reminds me of a video I watched of some Chinese healers who heal tumors through prayer. They all pray together and they pray as if the healing has already happened. I think that’s the way a Christian is supposed to pray. Ask God for what you need and then go about your day as if he’s already given it to you. If you walk uprightly before him, he will have no reason not to bless you with your righteous desires.
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March 4, 2012 at 10:21 am
Manuell
Wow I’m surprised some people can actually fast for so long! Out of curiosity though; when you say you’ve fasted for a week, do you mean that you’ve skipped two meals and then partake of the third for a week or do you mean you’ve completely cut off food for the whole week?
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March 7, 2012 at 2:05 pm
John Peterson
I totally cut off food for the whole week, but I do drink water.
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March 4, 2012 at 5:19 pm
Cal
John said, “I think that’s the way a Christian is supposed to pray. Ask God for what you need and then go about your day as if he’s already given it to you.”
Exactly!
Mark 11:24: “Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” If you believe AFTER you have received it, it’s not faith. Hebrews 11:1 [emphasis mine]: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we DO NOT SEE.”
Romans 4:17, KJV: “. . . God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.”
Romans 4:17, Amplified Version: “. . . Who gives life to the dead and speaks of the non-existent things that [He has foretold and promised] as if they [already] existed.”
——-
You implied that the Chinese healers were not Christians. I am still puzzled when, on rare occasions, I hear of non-Christians affecting healing. When they accused Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebub, he said a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand. He also consistently pointed to his miracles as evidence that the Father was in him.
How, then, can non-Christians heal—if in fact they do? Maybe you have insight on that.
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March 4, 2012 at 7:04 pm
John Peterson
Very good references on faith! They are good scriptural proof of what we’ve been discussing.
As a Mormon I believe we are all literal children of God (both body and spirit). That being the case I believe that our bodies are capable of healing themselves. There certainly is a mind-body connection. Probably most of our illnesses can be cured simply by learning to control our minds. This is certainly something which Jesus focused on heavily. The Levitical laws seemed to focus on outward obedience. Jesus taught that lasting outward obedience was the result of a reformed mind. (Matthew 5:21-28)
Jesus never said healing was exclusive to Christians. He only said that it would be one of the attributes of a Christian. What God offers to the repentant is knowledge. This knowledge gives us power over death. This is the “good news”. Sinning is really just doing things the wrong way, in a way that is destructive to the mind and body. When we repent (change our behavior), we naturally begin to heal. If someone finds the knowledge of how to heal themselves outside of God, they can heal themselves. I’m of the belief that the principles of healing are similar to the law of gravity, they work regardless of who observes or obeys them. Even Jesus was unable to heal those who doubted in his ability to heal them, this is likely because of the power of the mind-body connection.
Casting out evil spirits is one of the most difficult miracles to perform. Since a person who is possessed is obviously unwell, I would argue this is a form of healing, a form of healing which I believe is exclusive to Jesus and his apostles for the reason you cited above. However, even Jesus’ apostles failed when they tried to cast an evil spirit out of a man:
“And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.” (Mark 9:28-29)
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March 5, 2012 at 6:53 pm
Cal
Yeah, the body definitely does heal itself naturally, albeit with many exceptions, due no doubt to the fall.
You said, “Probably most of our illnesses can be cured simply by learning to control our minds.”
I won’t disagree with that. What comes to mind, however, is Romans 8:7 [emphasis mine]: “The sinful mind [KJV uses the word “flesh”] is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s law, NOR CAN IT DO SO.” With help from the power of the Spirit (gift of the Holy Spirit), we CAN do so!
You said, “Even Jesus was unable to heal those who doubted in his ability to heal them, this is likely because of the power of the mind-body connection.”
That’s good. There’s a well-known saying, “Believe and receive; doubt and do without.”
I believe Jesus disciples failed to cast that demon out (in Mark 9:28-29) because they didn’t believe it would come out. They needed to increase their faith through prayer and fasting.
And so, we’re back to fasting. We’ve come full circle. 🙂
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March 5, 2012 at 8:25 pm
John Peterson
I believe you are right, the sinful mind cannot repent. At least that’s been my experience. If it weren’t for the chastening hand of God, I probably would have remained agnostic, and lived the dead life of an ignorant sinner. “We love [God], because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)
Yes, fasting and prayer seems to be the path God has ordained for gaining faith (and knowledge). “And so, we’re back to fasting. We’ve come full circle.” Yes, indeed it seems we have 🙂
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March 7, 2012 at 7:51 am
Cal
You’re a good chap to talk to. (“Chap” is an old word by now, I suspect. :-))
Yes, God loved us first. He surely is a good God, isn’t he?
I’ve noticed when I fast that if I don’t mix with it extra Bible reading, prayer, praise, that sort of thing, that it doesn’t do much good as far as my spiritual life is concerned. It seems the one-two punch is what sends the devil reeling. Do you find the same?
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March 7, 2012 at 2:07 pm
John Peterson
Fasting and prayer go together like peas and carrots 🙂
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March 7, 2012 at 2:12 pm
John Peterson
Yes, I do find scripture study can be more enlightening when I’m fasting. I think that’s because our bodies are temples of God. When we clean our temples (both physically and mentally), we make a more inviting place for his Spirit to stay.
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March 7, 2012 at 7:56 am
Cal
I just noticed Manuell’s question above. He asked John, “Out of curiosity . . . when you say you’ve fasted for a week, do you mean that you’ve skipped two meals and then partake of the third for a week or do you mean you’ve completely cut off food for the whole week?”
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March 9, 2012 at 7:03 pm
Cal
Since graceforgrace’s kick-off post above is about fasting, I’ll stick to that topic.
Another benefit of fasting I’ve found, and one reason I like to fast, is that it gives me more time.
In 1 Corinthians 7:5, Paul mentions another benefit of fasting—which might be related to the benefit already mentioned. He mentions a sexual fast “so that you may devote yourselves to prayer.”
I’ve never tried that kind of fast (:-)) but if that kind of fast can help people devote themselves to prayer, certainly fasting from food can also. (The verse shows how important prayer is, too.)
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May 22, 2012 at 6:41 pm
Lee T Miller
I don’t believe this for a minute, I grew up where food was tough to get enough of. I often went hungry, not once did I tie to any spiritual connection to it. Later when my family joined the church, I grew to hate fasting so much so that to this day I will not even enter the chapel on fast Sunday nor will I pay fast offerings. If you are poor and hungry there is a plate at my table for you. But this fasting concept is shot full holes. I’m 6’2″ 210 lbs pushing 50 years old and have yet to base my spirituality on depriving myself of common sense essentials like food and drink.
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May 24, 2012 at 6:56 pm
Doug Dwyer
Lee-what do you do about all the Scriptures that speak of fasting as being an important spiritual disipline? Toss them out?
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May 24, 2012 at 7:52 pm
Lee T Miller
yes, it lays under the heading of “freedom of choice”, I can’t believe in a God that would not allow me the freedom of making my own choices, what works for me, I have no desire to make it to the highest kingdom nor do I ever want to be perfect, being flawed means growth I never want to stop learning ever. I never have believed in following traditions of any kind just because “everyone does it” or some big wig thinks it is the way back home. I am not a sheep that follows blindly I have my own mind and think things out for myself.
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May 28, 2012 at 11:37 am
graceforgrace
Lee,
I support noblenarcissist and Doug’s comments and will add my two cents in as well.
I am like you in the sense that i do not like to blindly follow. Things have to make sense to me for me to do it. Fortunately, Jesus in His mercy has visited me and the Holy Spirit has witnessed to me that fasting is from Him and will bring me closer to Him if I choose to do it.
There are commandments that Jesus has given us (i.e. fasting) that are for our benefit. I am of the personal persuasion that it doesn’t necessarily matter what we fast from as long as it is with a pure heart and a sacrifice to the Lord. When we choose to do this, I know from personal experience we will be blessed.
I challenge you to do this. Humble yourself before the Lord and ask Him for a witness the next time you fast. You’ll be amazed how gracious the Good Lord is.
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May 25, 2012 at 7:56 am
Doug
Lee-whether you like it or not we are all sheep and Jesus Christ is our shepherd. Fortunately for you and me-he is our “good” shepherd. I trust him and love him. I want to submit to him. I believe the Lord does give us freedom of choice-and that can include the freedom to be wrong. Our good shepherd says that his sheep hear his voice. We all need to humble ourselves in his presence and listen.
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May 26, 2012 at 6:23 am
noblenarcissist
It’s easier to convince ourselves that what we are doing has God’s approval, than it is to change our ways to conform with God’s ways. This kind of self deception only robs us of blessings. Sadly it’s the path of least resistance and so the one most often chosen.
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July 8, 2012 at 8:38 pm
Angelica
Fasting for spiritual purposes depends on the individual and God . As long as the purpose for fasting is led by a spiritual higher power and the person that is fasting is honest with him or herself, it is better to drink only water during the fast to prevent dehydration .
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August 25, 2012 at 12:45 pm
Blake G.
I’ve heard from some members that we shouldn’t have water and some say we can. I’ve always fasted but allowed myself water. When I talked to a few members i know who are big on endurance running like I am they all fast still but they allow themselves water. With the big amount fo miles I put in running each week I think a day without water would be a big mistake. I’m not saying I’m trying to take a easy way out of fasting, it is sometimes tough to go without the meals but I do lose a lot of fluids when i run and I think going a day without any drink (water) would casue more harm then spiritual growth.
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August 26, 2012 at 4:38 pm
graceforgrace
Hi Blake,
Thanks for stopping by and for the comment.
As I highlight in the post, fasting is a personal decision between God and the individual and as long as you feel you are doing it in sincerity, it’s all good.
However, what you said may cause some very die-hard Mormon fasters out there some grief. I can imagine some people feeling that you are not giving a full sacrifice and are not devoting everything to the Lord.
What would you say to someone who has those opinions?
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July 28, 2013 at 8:17 pm
Drawing on the Powers of Heaven by Fasting and Prayer | LDS Alive in Christ
[…] Here about modifying a fast for health […]
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August 4, 2013 at 12:50 am
K
I think the question of drinking water or not during a fast is probably greatly influenced by where you live. In very hot regions, fasting without water during the summer could be a serious health concern. Especially if you live in a home without A/C or have a job that requires a lot of outdoor work during the hot months. For example, if you work in construction in Arizona in July, you cannot afford to get dehydrated for any reason. So it may seem easy to the person from Minnesota to go without water for a day, but not so much to the person from the South.
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October 18, 2013 at 1:44 pm
Susan
I appreciate the opinions expressed here. I have been LDS for about 10 years. It was several months after my baptism when I heard that many members fast from water as well as food. I’m fasting for the first time during a work day, in support of a friend who is going through a serious struggle. I jog during my lunch breaks and wasn’t sure that would be healthy while dry fasting. I prayed about whether it would be best for me to do without water (except for taking my medications) and the answer was affirmative. I jogged more slowly than usual and walked part of my route. I have compromised by taking just a sip of water every few hours, but in doing so I feel great admiration for the prophets in scripture who fasted for days without food or water. By focusing on the spiritual over the physical, I feel that I am still making a worthy effort.
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May 27, 2018 at 7:45 pm
Chris Padilla
“True to the Faith states food and water, but, i agree, don’t be too legalistic about what, and simply do what you can. I was getting to the point, as I was getting older, that I thought I can’t do it for 24 hours. But, now I am able to go dry for 72-hours if I want to. Normally a 48 hour fast is good enough for me. I feel that anyone can try one more hour than I did the last time, pretty safely. So, practice makes perfect.
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