Surrender, not Sacrifice

When we think of fasting, many of us immediately think of what we’re giving up; food, comfort, convenience. But one day, a shift happened where my focus went from what we lose to what we gain.

Too often, we equate fasting with sacrifice. And yes, there is sacrifice involved. But the heart of fasting, biblically and spiritually, isn’t centered on deprivation. It’s centered on surrender.

Sacrifice says, “I have to.”
Surrender says, “I get to.”

Sacrifice often carries a sense of duty, even guilt. But surrender? Surrender flows from love. It’s a willing posture of the heart that says, “Lord, I trust You enough to let go of control. I trust You enough to quiet the noise. I trust You enough to choose You above all else.”

Fasting isn’t about trying harder to get God’s attention. It’s about quieting our soul so we can better hear His. It aligns us with His heart.

And as I shared in this week’s episode of the Destiny Awaits Podcast, it was during a fast that I heard God speak clearly in one of the most painful seasons of my life. It wasn’t easy. But it was sacred. And it changed everything.

So the next time you consider fasting, don’t approach it as an obligation. Approach it as an invitation. A sacred surrender. Not because you’re trying to prove anything to God, but because you long to be with Him, to be more like Him, and to walk in the fullness of what He has for you.

Reflection Questions:

• Have you ever fasted from a place of guilt instead of surrender?

• What would it look like for you to fast as a response to God’s love, rather than a religious obligation?