Five Tips on Fasting

by Miriam Caldwell | More from this Blogger

21 May 2007 05:56 PM

Fasting is a wonderful blessing that we can choose to partake of. When I was younger I hated fasting. I would count the hours until I could eat again. I was always focused on what I was giving up instead of what I was gaining. As an adult I have had some wonderful experiences. My approach to fasting changed drastically, as I grew older. Here are five tips to make the most of your fasting.

1) You should have a purpose for you fast. This makes your fast more meaningful. Fasting can help you to find insight because your body becomes more in tune with the spirit. You can fast to find solutions to problems in your life, you can fast for people who are ill, you can fast to stop a drought or you can fast regarding the concerns currently facing the world.

2) Begin and end your fast with a prayer. I have found that having a prayer in my heart really helps when you are fasting as well. You can go about your normal activities (work, taking care of your children and other daily tasks), but take time to contemplate your problem and to pray when you have the opportunity.

3) Attending the temple can help you to gain further insight while fasting. The temple is a wonderful place to feel the spirit. If you are not able to attend the temple while fasting you may want to spend extra time studying the scriptures. You can also create a peaceful environment by playing quiet music and abstaining from loud and boisterous activities.

4) It is important to give thanks while you are fasting. You can write in your journal or bear your testimony at church. You may choose to share the experiences with your children. As you give thanks you acknowledge the Lord's hand in your life.

5) It is also important to act on any promptings that you receive. The Lord may answer by opening doors and giving you opportunities or He might give you the gift of peace. It is important that you do what you need to to improve the situation.

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Learn more about Miriam Caldwell

Miriam is a SAHM mom of three children. She has a daughter who is seven, and two sons, four and two. She loves being a parent and spending time with her children.

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Nola Redd (7081) 25 May 2007 11:19 AM

Going without fasting also increases your appreciation for it. It seems as though I've been either pregnant or nursing for most of the past seven years (four kids in less than six years will do that to you!). When I first joined the church, I also counted the hours I was fasting, but there have been times since that I wished I could use this powerful tool. Several older sisters have told me the same thing, as they can't fast for medical purposes. Being able to fast is a wonderful blessing that we should try not to take for granted.

Miriam Caldwell (8030) 25 May 2007 07:30 PM

I know I haven't fasted in over three years for the same reasons. I have found that I can keep the spirit of the fast, by limiting what I eat. I will eat the bare minimum I need to and avoid desserts and second helpings. I still like to say a special prayer and spend time meditating. We also don't change our fast offering amount when I don't fast. These things help me feel like I am doing what I can to have the blessings.