Fasting Part 2


Isaiah 58

To read Fasting Part 1 look here.

Here are some of the benefits of fasting. Two are physical and two are spiritual.

Vs. 8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning,-This may have to do with not being groggy in the morning. Your body is not using energy to digest food so by the morning you may feel fresh and ready to go.

and thine health shall spring forth speedily:-There are a lot of books that boast of the health benefits of fasting, especially long fasts like 3 days. Also, how regularly you fast. A book I was reading recommended twice a year to keep your body, mind and spirit healthy. You might have allergies to a certain food that you eat all the time. While fasting you will feel better but if it is significantly different than you may look into food allergies of a common food you eat.
and thy righteousness shall go before thee; - With self-control comes making good decisions and with good decisions comes good consequences. As we get back in focus and have a clear mind we will make better choices.

the glory of the Lord shall be thy reward. - To be honest, this one stumps me . What is the glory of the Lord? The glory of the Lord is described as a cloud and a (rain) bow. It can fill, stand and move. It has caused people to pray and worship. It is usually seen in the house of God and after people have worshiped and sacrificed. How is it a reward? I do not know the answer to that one.

Like in the last two verses, here is something to do as a result of fasting.

Vs. 9 Then shalt thou call, - During this time of fasting you will be praying more than you normally do because instead of eating you will be praying.

and the Lord shall answer; -You will have a clear head and the Lord may reveal to you through your Bible reading and prayer time what he has for you.

thou shalt cry, - You may get emotionally. Everyone is eating except you. You may even have to cook their meal so they can eat. Since you are hearing your body, you may not like what it is saying. As you turn to the Lord in prayer you may feel vulnerable.

and he shall say, Here I am. - What a comfort this is to hear. This is the Lord’s fast and he is with us the whole way through.

If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, - The word yoke makes me think of a burden or bondage. There is a burden right in the middle of our lives and we need to move it from being the center of our focus. God wants to be our focus.

the putting forth of the finger, - Imagine in your mind someone putting their finger in your face as they talk. It may be angry, proud or self-righteous. We need to put these actions far from us.

and speaking vanity;-Instead of Blah, Blah, Blah, speak with a purpose. Use your words to encourage and lift others up. The Bible speaks of edifying and exhorting one another.

There is a whole lot more in Isaiah 58 about fasting. Fasting is a time of renewal and getting back our attention on the Lord and things he wants us to focus on. . It is a way to slow down. In our very busy life this is a sure way to get back on track spiritually, emotionally, and physically.


Disclaimer:
Before you start a fast from food consult your doctor.