Fr Alvan Ibeh: Spiritual Benefits of Lenten Fasting

Published by Charlie Bohan-Hurst on March 17, 2025

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Fr Alvan reflects on Lenten fasting, rooted in Jesus’ 40-day fast, a spiritual practice that deepens Christians’ relationship with God by fostering self-denial, prayer, repentance, and reliance on His grace, ultimately preparing believers to embrace the hope of Easter.

Another Lenten season has begun, and we thank God for granting us the opportunity to participate in this holy time of the year. Lent is a period of preparation, reflection, and penance, with fasting playing a significant role in this journey, as emphasised by the Church. However, fasting is not solely about abstaining from food; it is about creating space for prayer and charity.

Many religious traditions incorporate fasting for various reasons, but for us as Christians, fasting – particularly during Lent – holds profound spiritual significance. Rooted in Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11), Lenten fasting is not merely about denying oneself food or comforts; it is about aligning our hearts with Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.

Some may view fasting as an opportunity to eat healthily to lose weight or to reduce their intake of sweets to regulate their sugar levels. While these may be physical benefits of fasting, which anyone can pursue regardless of faith, our primary goal as Christians is spiritual growth and a closer relationship with God. This is why fasting should not be confined to Lent or practised merely because the Church calls for it during this season. Instead, it should be a consistent discipline, an expression of our desire to strengthen our relationship with God throughout the year.

Do you cherish your relationship with God? Do you long to grow stronger in faith day by day? Here are some key spiritual benefits of fasting as a Christian, especially during Lent:

Following Christ’s Example – By fasting, we follow Jesus’ example of self-denial and reliance on God. His fast in the wilderness prepared Him for His ministry and victory over temptation. Lenten fasting allows us to “walk as He walked” (1 John 2:6), uniting us with His suffering and obedience.
A Call to Spiritual Conversion – Lent is a season of metanoia (spiritual transformation). Fasting helps us confront sin, acknowledge our dependence on God’s grace, and turn away from habits that distance us from Him. As the prophet Joel urges: “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity” (Joel 2:12-13).
Deepening Prayer and Intimacy with God – Fasting creates space for focused prayer. By temporarily setting aside physical cravings, believers redirect their hunger towards God. This intentional ‘emptying’ makes room for the Holy Spirit to work, fostering a deeper connection with Him. As James 4:8 reminds us: “Come near to God and He will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
Detachment from Material Comforts – Lenten fasting teaches us how easily material comforts can become idols. By letting go, we learn to seek “the food that endures to eternal life” (John 6:27), prioritising God over temporary gratifications.
Recognising Our Dependence on God – Fasting reminds us of our frailty and our need for God. As we experience physical weakness, we acknowledge our spiritual dependence on Him, echoing Jesus’ words: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).
Sharpening Spiritual Awareness – By quieting the ‘noise’ of indulgence, fasting enhances our spiritual senses. Many Christians report a heightened awareness of God’s voice, increased clarity in decision-making, and greater freedom from distractions during Lent.

For Christians, Lenten fasting is a sacred rhythm of emptying and filling – emptying the soul of sin and excess while filling it with God’s presence, love, and purpose. It is a pilgrimage of the heart, preparing believers to fully embrace the hope of Easter – the resurrection that transforms sacrifice into eternal life. As St Augustine rightly pointed out: “Fasting cleanses the soul, raises the mind, subjects one’s flesh to the spirit, renders the heart contrite and humble, scatters the clouds of concupiscence, quenches the fire of lust, and kindles the true light of chastity.”

May our Lenten fast this year draw us closer to God, that we may know the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His suffering. Wishing you a spiritually enriching Lenten season. God bless.