How to Fast: Rediscover the Ancient Practice for Unlocking Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Renewal

Discover the holistic and revelatory experience of fasting in this seminal guide on the practice, science, and ancient context of the biblical tradition—with a foreword by John Mark Comer, New York Times bestselling author of Practicing the Way and The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. “At last! An accessible yet inspirational introduction to one of the most powerful, countercultural, and neglected aspects of prayer.”—Pete Greig, founder of 24-7 Prayer and author of How to Pray: A Simple Guide for Normal People   We’ve forgotten how to fast, and it has not only cost us the potency of our prayers and profound benefits to our bodies but has ultimately disconnected us from a practice essential to the faith of the early saints and to our Lord Jesus Himself. While fasting is often dismissed as just another diet trend, Pastor Reward Sibanda clarifies what true spiritual fasting is—and what it is not. He explains why we should fast and how to biblically fast so we can experience deeper communion with God. Sibanda draws from his own twenty-one-day fasting experiences, engaging anecdotes, Scripture, and scientific insights to reveal how fasting, when accurately and prayerfully practiced, • engages the soul, serves the spirit, and benefits the body • resets our biological rhythms and increases our physical well-being, even to the cellular level • is the most holistically transformative experience a Christian can undertake Whether you’re new to fasting or a seasoned practitioner, this book—which includes a daily fasting guide—provides invaluable insights that will renew your relationship with God and enrich your faith. Discover for yourself this life-changing gift!

About the Author :
Hailing from Zimbabwe, Reward Sibanda is a speaker, writer, pastor at Saddleback Church, and senior advisor for church and ministry partnerships with World Vision. Reward thrives on empowering people of all walks of life through sharing a fresh and much welcomed perspective that challenges conventional thinking. Engaging in candid conversations that address some of the world's toughest topics is at the core of Reward's mission and values. Reward resides in California with his wife and son.

Review :
“At last! An accessible yet inspirational introduction to one of the most powerful, countercultural, and neglected aspects of prayer. Reward Sibanda is a man who practices what he preaches, through his living (and praying) with a compelling passion for Jesus, alongside a refreshingly relational, down-to-earth love for God’s people.”—Pete Greig, founder of 24-7 Prayer and author of How to Pray: A Simple Guide for Normal People “This amazing resource will be a helpful guide and trusted companion on your fasting journey. Reward will strengthen your resolve, deepen your conviction, and support your desire to seek the Lord with body, soul, and spirit. He puts language to things I’ve experienced but couldn’t articulate—if only I had access to this gem when I began my fasting journey at age seventeen. I will return to this book again and again.”—Stacie Wood, teaching pastor at Saddleback Church “I know this book will encourage and fortify you in unexpected ways, drawing you into the intricate ways our body was made to be surrendered to the Holy One through fasting. How to Fast isn’t just a how-to guide; it’s a companion on your journey deeper to the heart of the Father.”—Amanda Bowman, director of church activation at World Vision “Reward Sibanda is a man of great joy and integrity who has been personally and radically shaped by the practice of fasting. His insights are rooted in biblical theology and church history, but, most profoundly, in a life of discipleship to Jesus. In these pages, you’ll find deep wisdom, but the greatest gift is that these insights are earthy, grounded—incarnated.”—Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church and author of Searching for Enough, Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools, and The Familiar Stranger “Reward offers us a deep and practical invitation to explore the fullness of the kingdom through his writing. This book offers each of us access to ancient spiritual wisdom and power for today.”—Danielle Strickland, author and advocate “I’ve known Reward Sibanda for more than a decade. His leadership has transcended cultural boundaries and religious walls. God has uniquely gifted him as a communicator to shepherd his generation, and this book is a timely resource. It’s a field manual for anyone looking to grow in intimacy with God and to live in the authority given us through Christ.”—Michael Miller, author and founder and senior pastor of UPPERROOM “I wholeheartedly endorse this book and even more the author.”—Corey Russell, author and preacher