“Fasting is a desperate measure, for desperate times, among those who know themselves as desperate for God.” - David Mathis
At the beginning of each year and at the end of the Spring,
Southlands calls a three day, all-church fast.
During this time we meet each night of the fast and break it together, on the last day, with a community meal.
Why do we fast?
By taking our eyes off the things of this world, we can more successfully turn our attention to Christ. Fasting is not a way to get God to do what we want. Fasting changes us, not God. Fasting is not a way to appear more spiritual than others. Fasting is to be done in a spirit of humility and a joyful attitude. Matthew 6:16-18 declares, “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Fasting options...
Water Only Fast
The water only fast means abstaining from all food and drink except water. It is the most strict fast we recommend. Some people may also choose to drink black coffee and/or tea.
Juice and/or Broth Fast
The juice and/or broth fast means abstaining from solid food (and shakes, smoothies, etc…) and only consuming liquids like water, juice, and broth. You may choose to limit how much juice/broth you drink to help train your body towards a water only fast.
Intermittent Fast
The intermittent fast means abstaining from food for extended times during the day, and then breaking the fast to eat a small meal. This is a great starting point if you’ve never fasted before and can help you grow towards a juice or water only fast in the future.
Technology Fast
Considering the amount of technology we use and media we consume each day, you may choose to fast from all or most technology usage (i.e. TV, internet, social media, etc…). It is a good idea to limit technology usage at some level during any type of fast. However, if you choose to fast from technology, we recommend also including some form of food and/or drink fast since this is the primary way Scripture instructs us to fast.
With all dietary fasting, please consult with your doctor if you have concerns
or pre-existing health conditions.
The water only fast means abstaining from all food and drink except water. It is the most strict fast we recommend. Some people may also choose to drink black coffee and/or tea.
Juice and/or Broth Fast
The juice and/or broth fast means abstaining from solid food (and shakes, smoothies, etc…) and only consuming liquids like water, juice, and broth. You may choose to limit how much juice/broth you drink to help train your body towards a water only fast.
Intermittent Fast
The intermittent fast means abstaining from food for extended times during the day, and then breaking the fast to eat a small meal. This is a great starting point if you’ve never fasted before and can help you grow towards a juice or water only fast in the future.
Technology Fast
Considering the amount of technology we use and media we consume each day, you may choose to fast from all or most technology usage (i.e. TV, internet, social media, etc…). It is a good idea to limit technology usage at some level during any type of fast. However, if you choose to fast from technology, we recommend also including some form of food and/or drink fast since this is the primary way Scripture instructs us to fast.
With all dietary fasting, please consult with your doctor if you have concerns
or pre-existing health conditions.