Fasting for Breakthrough
In Acts 19, we see a striking contrast between the ministry of Paul and the ministry of the Seven Sons of Sceva. Paul walked in true spiritual authority—demons fled, the sick were healed, and Jesus was exalted. The Sons of Sceva, however, while recognized and itinerant in ministry, lacked the substance of power. They had platform, but not presence. They had recognition, but not revelation. They tried to confront darkness, but darkness confronted them.
There is a line being drawn today—not just between the world and the church, but between the true church and those who merely perform religion.
The difference?
Authority.
And Jesus tells us how we receive it:
“This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”
— Matthew 17:21
As Keenan Clark says:
“God unlocks things for those who fast that He does not unlock for those who don’t.”
Years ago, I read Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough by
Dr. Elmer Towns, based on
Isaiah 58—God’s blueprint for fasting that produces real power.
Below is that foundation, expanded and adapted.
As you read, ask the Holy Spirit:
What are You calling me to fast for?
The 12 Biblical Fasts (from Isaiah 58)
1. The Disciple’s Fast – Breaking Bondage & Generational Curses
Isaiah 58:
“To loose the bonds of wickedness” (v. 6a)
“I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father” (v. 14c)
“You shall raise up the foundations of many generations” (v. 12b)
Purpose: Break sin patterns, addictions, and generational strongholds—shifting your spiritual inheritance and blessing future generations.
2. The Ezra Fast – For Guidance and Solutions
“To
undo the heavy burdens.” (v. 6b)
Scripture: Ezra 8:21–23
Purpose: Seek God’s wisdom when facing overwhelming decisions or challenges.
3. The Samuel Fast – For Revival and Awakening
“To
let the oppressed go free.” (v. 6c)
“And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt…
restorer of streets to dwell in.” (v. 12)
Purpose: Intercession for the lost and revival in homes, churches, and cities.
4. The Elijah Fast – To Break Fear, Depression, and Discouragement
“To
undo the straps of the yoke.” (v. 6d)
“Then you shall
take delight in the Lord.” (v. 14a)
Scripture: 1 Kings 19:4–8
Purpose: Replace emotional heaviness with renewed joy and strength.
5. The Widow’s Fast – Releasing Provision through Compassion
“To
share your bread with the hungry.” (v. 7a)
“You shall be like
a watered garden, whose waters do not fail.” (v. 11c)
Scripture: 1 Kings 17:8–16
Purpose: Generosity in fasting opens supernatural provision.
6. The Saint Paul Fast – Revelation & Calling
“And the Lord will
guide you continually.” (v. 11a)
Scripture: Acts 9:9–19
Purpose: Spiritual clarity, vision, and divine assignment.
7. The Ziklag Fast – To Recover What Was Stolen
“And satisfy your soul in scorched places.” (v. 11b)
Scripture: 1 Samuel 30
Purpose: Restoration of what the enemy has taken.
8. The Daniel Fast – Health, Healing, and Strength
“Your
healing shall spring forth speedily.” (v. 8b)
“And make your
bones strong.” (v. 11c)
Scripture: Daniel 1:8–20
Purpose: Renew physical strength and health.
9. The John the Baptist Fast – A Pure and Powerful Witness
“Then shall your
light break forth like the dawn.” (v. 8a)
Scripture: Luke 1:15–17
Purpose: Alignment of lifestyle with calling to influence others for Christ.
10. The Esther Fast – Favor, Influence, and Deliverance
“And I will make you
ride on the heights of the earth.” (v. 14b)
Scripture: Esther 4:16
Purpose: God-given influence to bring deliverance to others.
11. The Daniel Fast (Part 2) – Breaking Territorial Strongholds
“To
break every yoke.” (v. 6d)
Scripture: Daniel 10:12–13
Purpose: Spiritual breakthrough over regions and cities.
12. The Antioch Fast – Multiplying Disciples and Churches
Scripture: Acts 13
Purpose: To raise leaders and release kingdom multiplication.
Practical Tips for Fasting
- Plan ahead (calendar + family conversations matter).
- Write down your purpose—aim gives power.
- The first 36 hours are often emotionally and physically difficult—push through.
- Let hunger become worship.
- Reduce intense physical activity.
- Use Scripture, prayer, journaling, and silence.
A Call to Faith and Action
Fasting is not about earning something from God—it’s about
making space for Him to move.
It is the yielding of our strength so
His strength can be revealed.
The world does not need:
- more clever sermons
- more polished ministries
- more Christian content
The world needs Christians who carry the fire of God.
So I ask you:
What is God calling you to fast for?
Freedom?
Healing?
Revival?
Your children?
Your city?
Your calling?
The invitation is simple:
Return to hunger.
Return to the altar.
Return to power.
The same God who answered Paul, Elijah, Esther, and Daniel still answers today.
Set your fast.
Set your faith.
Step in.
Breakthrough is near.
