P.S. Jesus keep His fast for forty days and at the end of it was tempted by Satan. So please be careful. If you aren't strong enough for the tough stuff don't try unless you have solid spiritual direction.
I fast because I am supposed to for Ramadan, which is a month of fasting dedicated to God allowing Abraham's son to live, and giving him a goat instead. Fasting keeps me more aware of how lucky I am to have food every day, and everything else. You don't really lose weight, because when the fast is over for the day at sunset, you eat like a starved wolf. But it's a very spiritual experience.
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I think the point of fasting is to grow closer to God by absteining from something that brings us comfort.
Notice I say something. I don't think fasting has to be done with food. Abstiening from television for instance would be sufficent for some people. And others shouldn't go without food.
For me it is to clear my mind so I can focus on God. Also to give thanks for whatever pleasure you have given up on for that certain amount of time. As in truly appreciating what God has provided for you.
Originally Posted by SportsJunkie25
Do you guys completely fast from all food for a certain period of time or just something in particular?
I have fasted from food(2 days) and my boyfriend(week). During the food fast I fasted from all food and only drank water. During my boyfriend fast I didn't talk to him for a whole week and focus on the book of Proverbs.
Originally Posted by SportsJunkie25
And, after you do it, how do you feel different?
I feel refreshed. My mind is cleared. I feel good about doing something for God.
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1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
Hebrews 11:1
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
2 Timothy 1:7
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
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What I don't understand is the whole "not eating food brings me closer to God because I'm abstaining from something I enjoy".
I tend to feel closer to God when I'm doing something I enjoy. For example: Say I'm out hiking...I'm surrounded by beautiful forests and animals and all I can think of is...this is one of the main reasons I love God. God provided all of this life.
However, I can sympathize with wanting to know how the poor and starving feel.
BTW: on the scientific side...you think more clearly if you are well fed. That's why teachers advise students to get a good breakfast and good night's sleep before a test. Just saying...don't try fasting before the SAT's.
I think the biggest reason is because Christ told us to and we are supposed to follow His example.
Another reason I can think of is that it teaches you self control and discipline. Fasting also makes you appreciate the food you DO eat a lot more and it's also a healthier way to live.
I've lost 20 lbs since I converted to Orthodoxy but the weight loss is really a secondary benefit.
Good way ti see it.
I am soon to be fasting. I want to make it through.
Blessings Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Thanks for all of the great info. I've been contemplating the idea of fasting for a while now but I have not done so because I do not know exactly how to do it. I'll be 23 next month and I want to fast for 21 days. But, before I start to fast I want to learn as much as I can about it so that I may do it in a way that is pleasing to God.
Once again, thanks,
God Bless!!!
but the weight loss is really a secondary benefit.
Thanks for the info! 
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