Esther is facing the genocide of her people and her decision to fast food and drink for three days pales in comparison to her words, “and if I perish, I perish.” She refused to take nourishment from anything but God and then stood before a King that could take her life and annihilate people. Esther’s tough. Period.
Why did Esther fast?
Some people see fasting as a way to please a punitive God. This view believes God will only help me if I punish myself but what if fasting is about freedom and vitality for the one who fasts? What if it’s about making enough space for you to see what you’re addicted to, clinging to, relying on upon, your inordinate attachments. Fasting lets go of things that can keep you from knowing God and your courageous, true self.
Esther teaches us that when we let go of what is temporary we are free to live for what is LIFE.
As POW Queen, Esther was living “the good life” and she chose to fast her own comfort, security, and survival. She let go and got brave. Do you believe courage is connected to fasting? When have you practiced fasting and courage? What are you clinging to that could be keeping you and those you love from freedom.
Nine Ways to Practice Fasting
Style One: Fast the need to be perfect
Style Two: Fast the need to be needed
Style Three: Fast the need to succeed
Style Four: Fast the need to be special
Style Five: Fast the need to know it all
Style Six: Fast the need to be secure
Style Seven: Fast the need to avoid pain
Style Eight: Fast the need to be against
Style Nine: Fast the need to avoid conflict
Give a try, see what freedom may come.
PS A short playlist to encourage what’s vital and fast the temporary. What songs would you add?