Some Bible and Saints' Quotes on Fasting

Jesus Fasted

Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. (Luke 4:1,2)

God Rewards Those Who Fast

Jesus said, "When you fast, do not look sullen like the hypocrites, for they make their faces unattractive so that people will see them fasting. I tell you the truth, they have their reward. When you fast put oil on your head and wash your face so that it will not be obvious to others when you are fasting, but only to your Father who is in secret. And your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you." - Matthew 6:16-18

St. Paul, Romans 12:1

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. - Romans 12:1

The Devil is in Awe of Those Who Fast

"besides the ordinary effect of fasting in raising the mind, subduing the flesh, confirming goodness, and obtaining a heavenly reward, it is also a great matter to be able to control greediness, and to keep the sensual appetites and the whole body subject to the law of the Spirit; and although we may be able to do but little, the enemy nevertheless stands more in awe of those whom he knows can fast." - St. Francis De Sales

Adam didn't Fast - Look What Happened

"without mortifying the taste, it is impossible to preserve innocence, since it was by the indulgence of his appetite that Adam fell." - St. Catherine of Sienna

Fasting Gives Us Wings to Ascend on High

"Fasting is the support of our soul: it gives us wings to ascend on high, and to enjoy the highest contemplation! [...] God, like an indulgent father, offers us a cure by fasting." - Saint John Chrysostom

Devil is Afraid of Fasting

"My friend, the devil is not greatly afraid of the discipline and other instruments of penance. That which beats him is the curtailment of one’s food, drink, and sleep. There is nothing the devil fears more, consequently, nothing is more pleasing to God. Oh! How often have I experienced it! ... - it happened at times that I refrained from food for entire days . On those occasions I obtained, both for myself and others, whatsoever I asked of Almighty God." - Saint John Vianney

Fasting the weapon in Augustine's Daily War

"But now the necessity of habit is sweet to me, and against this sweetness must I fight, lest I be enthralled by it. Thus I carry on a daily war by fasting, constantly bringing my body into subjection..." - St. Augustine

Fasting Necessary for Spiritual Battle

"It is impossible to engage in spiritual conflict, without the previous subjugation of the appetite." - Saint Gregory

Bible & Saints on Fasting