Bible Study: Because As He Is, So Are We In This World By Dr Godwin Izuegbunam
Text : (1 John 4:17)
Fasting is almost a universal practice across many world religions. Its widespread observance suggests that it must be associated with meaningful spiritual benefits; otherwise, it would not have endured across generations.
Recently, a medical colleague of mine, who practices Islam, made a statement about the Ramadan fast. He admitted he was merely observing it as a ceremonial duty and could not wait for it to end so that normal life could resume. Sadly, such an attitude is not uncommon.
The people of Israel in Judaism also struggled with misconceptions about fasting. Through the prophet, God asked:
“When you fasted and mourned… did you really fast for Me, for Me?”
(Zechariah 7:5)
And again:
“You will not fast as you do this day, to make your voice heard on high.”
(Isaiah 58:4)
Fasting, therefore, is not about religious ceremony, outward appearance, or human approval. It is about alignment with God.
When I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, I sought to follow the Jesus Way. He submitted to water baptism “to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). He was filled with the Holy Spirit, overcame temptation, and began His ministry in the power of the Spirit (Luke 4:1–14).
Desiring to grow in that same pattern, I prayed for strength and embarked on a 40-day fast. At its conclusion, I asked the Father to teach me what I needed to understand — and He graciously did.
A. The True Purpose of Fasting
To overcome the flesh and live by the power of the Spirit.
This involves:
Becoming a Lover of God’s Word
(Deuteronomy 8:3; 1 Peter 2:2)
Becoming a Person of Prayer
(Luke 6:12; 18:1; Mark 1:35)
Resisting Sinful Desires by His Strength
(1 John 4:4; Romans 6:11–14)
Fasting weakens the dominance of the flesh and strengthens sensitivity to the Spirit.
B. Fasting Helps Us Focus on What Is Above
(Colossians 3:1–2)
This involves:
Hungering and Thirsting for Righteousness
(Matthew 5:6)
Cultivating God’s Heart of Compassion and Mercy
(Isaiah 58:6–7; Matthew 25:34–40)
Developing the Meekness of Christ
(Matthew 11:28–30)
Growing in Passion to Share Christ
(John 20:21; Romans 1:16–17)
True fasting transforms the heart. It aligns us with Christ’s character and mission.
Because as He is, so are we in this world. Fasting is not an escape from life — it is preparation to live life in the power of the Spirit.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father,
Teach us to fast in a way that pleases You — not as a ritual, but as a pathway to deeper intimacy with You. Help us overcome the flesh, walk in the Spirit, hunger for righteousness, and reflect the heart of Christ in this world. May our lives truly mirror Him.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
