This Bible study, “Fasting: A Catholic Guide to Spiritual Warfare,” delves into the ancient and powerful practice of fasting as a weapon in the life of faith. We will explore Sacred Scripture and the teachings of the Church Fathers to understand fasting not merely as a dietary restriction, but as a deliberate act of self-denial undertaken for spiritual growth and to combat the forces of evil. Key theological insights will include an examination of the Old Testament roots of fasting, Christ’s own practice and teachings on fasting in the Gospels, and the Church’s continued emphasis on fasting as a means of prayer, repentance, and mortification. We will learn how fasting aligns us with Christ’s suffering and strengthens our will against temptation.
Practically, this study will provide a framework for incorporating fasting into our lives. We will discuss different types of fasting, from abstaining from food to renouncing specific comforts or habits, and discern how to choose a fast that is appropriate for our individual needs and spiritual goals. Moreover, we will explore how to couple fasting with fervent prayer, frequent reception of the Sacraments, and acts of charity, amplifying its spiritual power. Ultimately, this study will equip you to wield the weapon of fasting with greater understanding and purpose, empowering you to wage effective spiritual warfare against sin and draw closer to Our Lord.
Download the full Bible study: 📄 Fasting: A Catholic Guide to Spiritual Warfare (PDF)