Why Do We Fast?

Today I want to post some answers to the question "Why do we fast?" These answers are from Mahesh Chavda's book "The Hidden Power of Prayer and Fasting."

Chavda writes:

I've compiled a list of nine biblical reasons why we fast, and they don't necessarily parallel the list of 12 benefits of fasting listed in Isaiah 58. Many of these points get down to the "nitty gritty" areas of the Christian life, and they answer some of the most common questions I've been asked about fasting over the last two decades.

1. We fast in obedience to God's Word.
(see Joel 2:12, 2 Corinthians 6:4-6, Matthew 9:15)

2. We fast to humble ourselves before God and obtain His grace and power.
(see James 4:10)

3. We fast to overcome temptations in areas that keep us from moving in God's power.

4. We fast to be purified from sin (and to help others become purified as well).
(see Daniel 9:3-5, Jonah 3:5-10)

5. We fast to become weak before God so God's power can be strong.
(see Psalm 109:24-28, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

6. We fast to release the anointing to accomplish His will.
(see Acts 13:3-4; 14:23)

7. We fast in times of crisis.
(see Esther 4:15-16)

8. We fast when seeking God's direction.
(see Ezra 8:21-23)

9. We fast for understanding and divine revelation.
(Jeremiah 36:6)