The concept of fasting in the Bible is deeply rooted in the spiritual discipline of humbling oneself before God, seeking His presence, and aligning one's heart with His will. The true fast that God desires is not merely an external act of abstaining from food but a profound expression of repentance, justice, and compassion. This understanding is vividly articulated in the prophetic literature, particularly in the book of Isaiah.

Isaiah 58:6-7 :
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the homeless poor into your home, when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?”

In these verses, the prophet Isaiah conveys God's message that true fasting transcends ritualistic practices. It is an active pursuit of righteousness and mercy. The fast that pleases God involves liberating those who are bound by injustice, feeding the hungry, providing shelter to the homeless, and clothing the naked. This passage emphasizes that fasting should lead to tangible acts of love and justice, reflecting God's character and His concern for the marginalized.

The Heart of Fasting:

The true fast is a call to genuine repentance and transformation. It is a time for individuals to examine their hearts, confess their sins, and turn away from behaviors that are contrary to God's commands. Fasting is meant to draw believers closer to God, fostering a deeper relationship with Him and a greater sensitivity to His voice.

Joel 2:12-13 :
“Yet even now,” declares the LORD, “return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion.”

Joel's exhortation highlights the importance of inner transformation over outward expressions. God desires a contrite heart, one that is genuinely broken over sin and earnestly seeks His forgiveness and grace. The act of fasting, accompanied by sincere repentance, becomes a powerful means of spiritual renewal and restoration.

Fasting and Social Justice:

The true fast is intricately linked to social justice. It challenges believers to confront societal injustices and to be agents of change in their communities. The call to "break the chains of wickedness" and "set the oppressed free" underscores the responsibility of God's people to advocate for those who are voiceless and vulnerable.

Zechariah 7:9-10 :
“This is what the LORD of Hosts says: ‘Administer true justice. Show loving devotion and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil in your hearts against one another.’”

Zechariah's message reinforces the idea that fasting should lead to a life marked by justice and mercy. It is a call to embody God's love in practical ways, ensuring that the needs of the disadvantaged are met and that His righteousness is upheld in all areas of life.

Fasting as Worship:

True fasting is an act of worship that honors God. It is a declaration of dependence on Him, acknowledging that He is the source of all provision and strength. By setting aside physical sustenance, believers express their hunger for spiritual nourishment and their desire to be filled with God's presence.

Matthew 6:16-18 :
“When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting will not be obvious to men, but only to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount emphasizes the importance of sincerity in fasting. It is not a performance for others but a private devotion to God. The true fast is a humble offering, seeking the approval of the Heavenly Father rather than the praise of people.

In summary, the true fast God desires is a holistic practice that encompasses repentance, justice, compassion, and worship. It is a transformative journey that aligns believers with God's heart, prompting them to live out their faith in tangible and meaningful ways.