5 Lies the Devil Wants You to Believe About Fasting

The enemy wants to do anything he can to hinder our spiritual growth. Here are the most common lies he will tell someone who has decided to fast to humble themselves before God.

Lies The Devil Says About Fasting

Lie # 1: “Fasting is Starvation, It’s Not Spiritual”

The misconception that fasting is just starvation is common. However, fasting is a spiritual discipline. Throughout history, various pagan cultures practiced fasting as a way to purify and prepare themselves spiritually, not just physically. It’s a tool to draw closer to God and help us align with His will.

Lie #2: “Fasting is Only for Super Christians”

Another lie that the enemy tells us is that fasting is reserved for the spiritual elite—pastors, prophets, or those without busy lives. However, the Bible says that Jesus expected all His followers to fast (Matthew 9:15).

Lie #3: “Fasting is a Shortcut to God’s Blessings”

The enemy may often push a person to believe that fasting is a manipulative tactic to make God do something He wouldn’t otherwise do. However, when we don’t live an obedient lifestyle, and we use sacrifice as a way to compensate for our lack of obedience, it’s not pleasing to God.

Lie #4: “Fasting is Only About Food”

Another lie is that fasting is only about abstaining from food. While fasting often includes giving up food, it’s also about sacrificing any distractions that compete with our attention for God. This can include social media, entertainment, or other pleasures. A fast done right leads to other sacrifices in our life.

Lie #5: “Fasting is Pointless”

And lastly, another common lie the enemy can try and thwart our fast with is the belief that fasting is pointless if it goes unnoticed by others. Fasting should be a private discipline that brings public rewards from God. Jesus warned against seeking attention from fasting (Matthew 6:18). God honors fasting done in humility, even when no one sees it. 

I pray these help you discern the true heart and purpose of your fast. May God take you deeper during this time.

Read: 5 Things to Remember After You Start Your Fast