Isa’s Fasting Example for Ramadan

A proverb says, “prepare an umbrella before the rain.” It reminds us to anticipate problems before they happen.

It’s the same with fasting. We must understand the kind of fasting that pleases Allah, so it’s not in vain. Looking at Isa’s fasting example in Allah’s Word will help you!

Ramadan and Self-control

Every Ramadan, the crime rate usually increases in Muslim countries. “There was an increase by 28 cases in the first week of Ramadan,” said Kabid Humas Polda, Metro Jaya, in June 2016. The absence of self-control is one reason why.

Isa lived the perfect example of self-control. Allah’s Word says after fasting 40 days, the Devil tempted Isa to change a rock into bread.

For Isa, that was not difficult. In the Injil, Isa fed 5,000 adults with only five loaves of bread and two fish. In spite of this, Isa managed to stand against the temptation of the Devil.

Isa said, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Following Isa’s example will help you resist the Devil’s temptations.

Fasting for People’s Approval

There are also people who fast to look devout, hoping that people will praise them. Sometimes their fast is to gain the attention and approval of those around them.

Other people hope to alleviate their workload by fasting. They seek special treatment when  fasting.

To such people Isa said, “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting . . .” (Gospel of Matthew 6:16).

Please share your opinion about Isa’s statement above.

We Fast for Allah, Not People

Fasting is not merely about abstaining from food or drink or changing mealtimes. Fasting is primarily about humbling oneself to seek Allah’s face. Then our fasting will be focused on Allah and not on people.

When Isa fasted for 40 days, He didn’t eat at all. After that the Devil came and tempted him. The Devil offered Isa the position as king over the world if Isa worshipped him. However, Isa answered, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your Allah, and serve him only!”

The Devil still tempts people through jobs, marriages, entertainment, and other things. If you focus on Allah, you will withstand the temptation of the Devil.

The Key to Fasting Successfully

It’s so easy! Come to Isa and ask for a new heart. A heart sanctified through His sacrifice on the cross. He loves you and is willing to save you. He said, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, I will give you rest” (Gospel, Matthew 11:28).

If you want to share your view of fasting, please email us.

[Isa and Islamic staff – For input or questions regarding this article, please send an email to Staff Isa and Islam.]

SOME QUESTIONS FOR THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW

We encourage our readers to comment on the article above. Comments that don’t directly relate to the topic will be removed. Please start a dialogue with us by focusing on one of the following questions:

1. Do you agree with the explanation in the article above? If so, why? If not, why not?
2. Why do you think crime usually increases during Ramadan?
3. According to you, why should we follow Isa’s example of fasting?

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