Fasting is a way of self-control, so much necessary to control our desires, which we know aren’t always good. Fasting itself is not the end, but a means to change and become a better person in all regards.
Controlled fasting, accompanied by prayer, quickly brings you to the frontiers of dispassion. At this point you attain greater humility. “Your great humility releases the spring of tears within you and you bum with love for God,” writes 11th century Byzantine theologian and saint Niketas Stethatos.
“When you have reached this state, you enter the peace of the Spirit that transcends every dauntless intellect (cf. Phil.4:7) and through love you are united to God,” he adds.
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[…] out about the requirements by talking to your pastor. Fasting is crucial in Christian life because it brings you to the frontiers of dispassion. What to do, if you are just starting and do not have the necessary willpower to follow the […]
[…] Then bishop Nikolay advises one sister who had a brother of similar character and to whom he wrote this letter, to stop giving advises to his brother, be quiet and not irritate him anymore. He advises him to pray God and ask for a mercy for his brother, even if he has to go through trials, fast once a week and do good works, such as giving alms to the needy. And God in his mercy and in his timing will soften the soul of the person under addiction and return him to life free from sin and passion. Fasting does bring you to the frontiers of dispassion. […]