Isaiah 58:6 NIV - “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?”

Fasting is often reduced to what we give up—food, habits, comforts. But in Isaiah 58, God reframes fasting as something far deeper. True fasting is not merely about self-denial; it’s about self-giving. It’s not just turning down a plate—it’s turning toward people.

God’s chosen fast loosens chains. It breaks cycles. It confronts injustice and lifts burdens that weigh others down. In other words, fasting isn’t only meant to change us—it’s meant to change the world around us.

When we fast, God sharpens our spiritual awareness. We begin to see where systems oppress, where people are overlooked, and where love requires action. Fasting softens our hearts so our hands can get to work.

This kind of fasting asks bold questions:
- Who is burdened around me?
- Where can I bring freedom instead of indifference?
- What yokes might God be calling me to help break?
True fasting aligns our hearts with God’s heart—a heart that longs for freedom, justice, and restoration.

Prayer:
God, as I fast, open my eyes to see what You see. Loosen anything in me that keeps others bound. Use my surrender to bring freedom, hope, and healing to those around me. Amen.