A Woman's Guide to Fasting

by Lisa E. Nelson

Christians often give up on fasting, or don't try it at all, because they lack thorough advice. Most fasting books explain the biblical reasons to fast, but they provide inadequate practical guidance. This concise book shows women the essential steps to successful fasting. Key topics include how to prepare physically and spiritually, what to expect during the fast, and how to reintroduce food. Whether the reader has never fasted before or has tried it occasionally, or wants to fast for one meal or for several days, this unique resource will equip and encourage her to grow closer to God through fasting.

Genres: Nonfiction, Religion, Christianity, Christian Non Fiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2011

Reviews

[Julie Keller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good, but a lot to take in. But probably necessary to truly understand the discipline of fasting beyond “don’t eat.”

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Found this treasure at the thrift store and was a huge encouragement and will be one I turn back to many times! Thankful for a book specifically for woman about this spiritual practice!

[A.C. Bauch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a lot of different material about fasting, and this book is one of the best. Even though the author addresses fasting from a female perspective and for a female audience, I think that men could also benefit from much of the content.

One aspect of this book I greatly appreciated is the author's ample use of Scripture to support her ideas. And I like that she presents a realistic portrayal of fasting, even delving into her own failed attempts. I found myself underlining and placing asterisks next to many sections, and I plan to revisit these throughout present and future fasting endeavors. Lots of practical application throughout the text.

Note: I would have given this book five stars, but I don't agree with all the theology and didn't like the inclusion of a quotation from Jesus Calling.

[Shari · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well-written, practical book on how to include the discipline of fasting in your spiritual life.

[Emma Juday · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great read on the Spiritual discipline of fasting. Insight into the why behind fasting and practical suggestions for a healthy fast. I appreciated that this book does not claim that everyone should fast or needs to fast, but that it just presents the why and how.

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book if one needs some guidance on fasting.

[Barbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I read A Woman’s Guide to Fasting by Lisa E Nelson (Bethany House), I had never partaken in a fast. Truthfully, the reasons and benefits of fasting were a little lost on me. I had a hazy understanding of denying my physical needs to strengthen my spirit, communing with God during normal meal times, etc. but no true understanding of the process, reasons, or benefits were clear until I got a hold of this gem of a book.

Lisa begins with a thorough explanation of exactly what fasting is – “a spiritual tool for spiritual growth.” (p.12) She then goes deeper and explains five reasons why God commands us to fast: 1) Spiritual growth and overcoming sin. 2) Empower intercession. 3) Preparation for spiritual warfare. 4) Obedience to God’s call. 5) Response to a crisis. In addition to fleshing out these reasons, in the next chapter, Lisa confronts some reasons why not to fast. In a nutshell, fasting is not a magic trick to make God love you, but it can be a tool to put you in a place of obedience to Him. The rest of the book is made up of quality advice on how to begin, follow through, and break a fast.

I really appreciate the depth of analysis, thought, and tangible guidance presented in this conversational book. I definitely give A Woman’s Guide to Fasting five stars. It is a must read for any woman who is interested in this spiritual discipline.

Disclaimer: I received A Woman’s Guide to Fasting by Lisa E. Nelson at no cost from Bethany House in return for an honest review. My opinion is my own.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve heard of fasting but never knew much about it, until I read this book by Lisa Nelson. This book may be small at just over 147 pages but it’s full of information regarding fasting and how to go about being a busy woman while fasting. I think part of me is scared of the idea of fasting, give up food? No. What about the migraine? The fatigue? The low blood sugars? It’s really not a good idea for me to fast – I’m a type 2 diabetic, BUT, I also know that if God is calling me to fast then I need to listen to that call.

I love how Lisa gives ideas for how to do a 24 hour fast, or even longer, what foods are good and how to effectively complete a fast even if you don’t succeed at the entire time you think you’re supposed to fast. The facts about what a fast is and is not, is also a great way to understand the facts around fasting and how to do it to honor God while doing it safely. This book will give you what you need to begin preparing yourself to fast even with a busy schedule. I know I’ll be referring to it as I pray about whether to fast from food myself.

**I was provided a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion, no other compensation was given.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

An indispensable must have guide that covers everything pertaining to fasting. Laced throughout are bible passages that correspond to the subject being discussed. A lot of information is well presented and I took my time in reading and reflecting. I have fasted for a few years now and what I know in reading this book is that this book will greatly enhance my fasting experience! Some key points I found personally beneficial were: how to prepare for a successful fast, non food fasts, how to better incorporate prayer during a fast and how to forgive but there are so many more pertinent topics presented here as well! Every reader can take the authors experiences and advice and apply them to their own personal journey. This book will be excellent to read again before during and after my own fasts especially longer ones. Very well written and researched! I received this book for free from Bethany House Publishers for this review.

[Jodi Janz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her writing style is relaxed and soothing. It feels like having a coffee with Lisa at a quaint little tea house. She fills each of her points with abundant scriptures. You become friends with her before you finish the book. She shares a lot of insight from her own life. I particularly loved her section on the experience of 9-11 and how her husband and family was affected that day and how God used fasting to call her spirit into prayer. Very powerful!

Pick up this book. It is a must read!
I received a free copy courtesy of the Publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great resource for women who want to know more about fasting and how we can use it as a tool for growing spiritually. Read my full review here. :)

[Wendy Sparkes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting and insightful.