Fasting Grows Our Self-Control

Fasting Grows Our Self-Control One of the most straightforward benefits of fasting is that it’s simply good practice in resisting physical temptation. Our stomachs growl, or our thumbs instinctively reach towards the app we decided to give up, and we have an opportunity. When we’re tempted to fall back into our normal routine, we can keep fasting, practicing self-control. Self-control is definitely a muscle that grows as we work it out, but gritting our teeth to get through a fast isn’t the way to practice it (although it may help). Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), which means it comes from the Holy Spirit’s power, not our own. Instead of relying on our own willpower, let’s practice self-control by asking the Holy Spirit to be the power that carries us through a fast.  As you consider fasting, invite the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom about how you can implement it in your own life. Although fasting traditionally deals with going without food, not everyone is in a place where this would be a helpful or healthy choice. Consider other options, such as fasting from fast food specifically, fasting from certain types of media, from unnecessary spending, or other creative ideas.