Let’s be reminded that fasting isn’t a form of punishment for the sins you’ve committed since Christ took care of that for you on the cross. It’s the decision to disconnect yourself from your dependence on the world and yourself.
Here are examples of the different types of fasts that you might consider:
Complete Fasting:
Talk to your doctor and consult the Holy Spirit before you participate in this option but a complete fast is just that. For 21 days, you would only drink liquids (i.e. water, light juices, etc) for the entire day or designated portions of the day. We've seen this type of fast in the Book of Esther. Queen Esther called the entire nation of Israel to fast for their deliverance (Esther 4:16). It is amazing how long a human body can stand without food, but not without water. However, if God is calling you to this kind of fast, always follow His leading first.
Selective Fast:
This is the most common type of fast since the Bible talks about abstaining from certain foods or drinks. The Daniel fast found in Daniel 10 is one example of a selective fast (no meats, breads, or sweets for 21 days). Whole 30, Vegan/plant-based, and Paleo meal plans are popular food choices as well.
Intermittent Fast:
This was a common type of fast for the Hebrew people. For this fast, you’d designate certain times of the day for fasting. For example, no eating from sun up to sundown or choosing to eat only in the morning or the afternoon.
Soul Fast:
A Soul fast typically means removing luxuries and indulgences outside of food. Its purpose is to guard the types of things that enter your mind and heart during this season. This includes but isn’t limited to social media, music, movies & TV, smartphone usage, or screen time either for a certain period or the entire period.