Day 2 - James 2:10-13

A Fasted Journey for Spiritual Renewal

Day 2

“For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it. For he who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. -James 2:10-13

I can’t point you to anything in the New Testament that commands you to fast. But does that mean we shouldn’t do it just because it isn’t explicitly commanded? That seems to not be the case. Also, the Old Testament isn’t simply hogwash now that the New Testament exists. Still, does that mean you must fast? No, it doesn’t, although clearly I have arrived at a point where I think we should. By the way, the Old Testament doesn’t command fasting either, except for on the Day of Atonement. This is addressed in Leviticus 16:29-31 and 23:17 where the phrase “afflict yourselves” is used to, most likely, mandate fasting on this day alone. Perhaps we will get into that a bit more over the coming days, but “afflict” is also used elsewhere regarding fasting too.

The footnote in one of my favorite study materials says, in part of the verse for today, “God’s Law, because of its wise constraints, brings true freedom. Disobedience to God’s Law brings bondage; and to those who have not been merciful, God’s judgment is without mercy. Just as love triumphs over prejudice, mercy triumphs over judgment. God has ordained unalterable laws. Complete and consistent obedience is required if spiritual maturity is to be attained.” Good thing fasting isn’t a requirement. 😉

But perhaps it will have an impact on the aspects of that passage that we are supposed to follow. I think it will. If it didn’t, or if some other important spiritual aspects aren’t tied to fasting, why is fasting mentioned so many times in the Old and New Testament? Let’s at least endeavor to find out.

I am not a medical professional. This journal is about my spiritual path and about that which the Lord has placed on me. This is not medical advice, nor was this fast done for any medical purpose. If you have a medical interest, seek medical advice. If you have particular health concerns, seek medical advice and/or conduct your own research. Any fasting advice, effects, realizations or anything else related to my fast come from my personal reflection and experience. If you are considering fasting, consulting with a healthcare provider may be appropriate for you.