Fasting, as depicted in the Bible, is a spiritual discipline involving abstaining from food, and sometimes drink, for a period of time to seek God's presence, guidance, or intervention. It is a practice deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition, serving as a means of humbling oneself before God, expressing repentance, and seeking divine favor.

In the Old Testament, fasting is often associated with mourning, repentance, and supplication. One of the earliest references is found in the Book of Leviticus, where the Israelites are commanded to "afflict your souls" on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:29-31). This affliction is traditionally understood to include fasting. The prophet Joel calls for a fast as a response to a locust plague, urging the people to "return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning" (Joel 2:12).

Fasting is also seen in the lives of key biblical figures. Moses fasted for forty days and nights on Mount Sinai as he received the Law from God (Exodus 34:28). Similarly, Elijah fasted for forty days as he journeyed to Mount Horeb (1 Kings 19:8). In the Book of Esther, Queen Esther calls for a fast among the Jews as they face potential annihilation, seeking God's protection and favor (Esther 4:16).

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself fasted for forty days and nights in the wilderness, preparing for His public ministry and resisting the temptations of Satan (Matthew 4:2). Jesus taught about fasting in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing sincerity and humility, instructing His followers not to fast for outward show but in secret, so that "your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (Matthew 6:16-18).

The early church also practiced fasting, often in conjunction with prayer, as seen in the Book of Acts. The church in Antioch fasted and prayed before sending out Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journey (Acts 13:2-3). Fasting is portrayed as a means of seeking God's will and empowering the church for ministry.

Offerings

Offerings in the Bible refer to gifts presented to God as an act of worship, thanksgiving, or atonement. These offerings are a central aspect of the covenant relationship between God and His people, serving as expressions of devotion, gratitude, and obedience.

In the Old Testament, offerings are detailed extensively in the Mosaic Law. The Book of Leviticus outlines various types of offerings, including burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, sin offerings, and guilt offerings (Leviticus 1-7). Each type of offering had specific purposes and regulations, reflecting different aspects of the Israelites' relationship with God.

Burnt offerings, for example, were entirely consumed by fire, symbolizing total dedication to God (Leviticus 1:9). Grain offerings, often made of fine flour and oil, were expressions of thanksgiving and acknowledgment of God's provision (Leviticus 2:1-3). Sin and guilt offerings were made to atone for unintentional sins and transgressions, highlighting the need for purification and reconciliation with God (Leviticus 4:1-5:19).

The concept of offerings extends beyond the ritualistic practices of the Old Testament. In the New Testament, the ultimate offering is seen in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who offered Himself once for all as the atonement for sin (Hebrews 10:10). This sacrificial act fulfills and transcends the Old Testament offerings, establishing a new covenant between God and humanity.

Believers are encouraged to present their lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, as an act of spiritual worship (Romans 12:1). Offerings in the New Testament context also include acts of generosity and support for the church and those in need, reflecting the love and grace of God (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Throughout the Bible, offerings are a tangible expression of faith and devotion, symbolizing the believer's commitment to God and recognition of His sovereignty and grace.