Fasting is a weird thing that Jesus modeled for His followers. It’s one thing to forgo something I just really enjoy, like sugar or TV. But to give up all food?! That’s crazy, right? I don’t just want to eat, I need to eat to survive. Don’t I?

And yet, God asks His people to fast from time to time. And He led the Israelites into the wilderness where He allowed them to go hungry for a little while. Why?

“He humbled you by letting you go hungry; then he gave you manna to eat, which you and your ancestors had not known, so that you might learn that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” (Deuteronomy‬ ‭8‬:‭3,‬ ‭CSB)

God doesn’t want me to go hungry. His purpose is not that I suffer. The purpose, clearly stated in Deuteronomy, is humility. When I lack humility, that is the time to fast. When I think I have control of things and don’t need God, that’s when it’s time to fast. When I’m worried about things, which means I’m not relying on God, that’s the time to fast and remember God is in control, loves me, and will provide.

When Jesus fasted in the desert for 40 days and nights, the devil didn’t tempt Jesus by handing Him a loaf of bread. The devil tempted Jesus to use His power to turn the stones to bread. He tempted Jesus to take control, to grab the reigns from God. He tempted Him with pride and power and self-reliance.

But Jesus chose humility.

“He answered, ‘It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬, ‭CSB)‬‬

Jesus knew that bread is worthless without God, but with God, all His needs are met.

Dear God,

Forgive me for tending to rely on my own strength, wisdom, and resources instead of yours. Show me how to reset my priorities and rely only on you for even my basic needs. Thank you for loving me so much that you want to take care of me.