Latter-day Saint Life

Why Fasting Is So Much More Than Going without Food + 11 Ways to Make Fasting More Meaningful

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Elder Shayne M. Bowen shared 11 principles for a more meaningful fast at a devotional on Tuesday at the LDSBC in Salt Lake.  

The law of the fast is a precious tool Heavenly Father has given to change lives, overcome the natural man and build faith in the Lord — and it might be one of the most often neglected tools people have, Elder Bowen said.

“It is my desire to help each of us more fully understand and receive the blessings and power that God intended through the exercise of this powerful tool.”

He listed six principles of fasting.

Principle 1: A true fast requires more than just going without food.

Isaiah 58:6-11 shares specific blessings available to God's children if done the way He has shown, with fasting inviting Jesus Christ to free people from the bands of wickedness, lift heavy burdens and let the oppressed go free.

“If a person fasts properly and consistently, he can overcome any bad habit, sin or addiction that burdens his life,” Elder Bowen said. “Is there anyone who would not want to be freed from the personal burdens that they are carrying? Fasting allows us to avail ourselves of this cleansing and purifying power.”

Principle 2: A generous fast offering blesses others.

Story and lead image by Spencer Williams, Church News
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