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In The Passion Project, Pastor Kelly Kinder offers a deep dive into why we can be physically full yet spiritually unsatisfied, and how the ancient practice of fasting can reawaken our hunger for God. While fasting may seem like a lost art in Western Christianity, Kelly shows that it’s a proven spiritual catalyst—one that unlocks breakthroughs, overcomes opposition, and expands God’s kingdom in ways we rarely see when we rely solely on our own strength.

Fasting isn’t just about going without food; it’s about going without food for a spiritual purpose. As David Mathis explains, “Fasting is an exceptional measure designed to channel and express our desire for God and our holy discontent in a fallen world.” By choosing temporary physical discomfort, we declare that our deeper longing is for divine encounter and transformation. Kelly points out that this discipline aligns us with how God has always moved among His people. From the early church fasting twice weekly to modern disciple-making movements exploding worldwide, fasting has proven itself a powerful force for spiritual renewal.

One key reason fasting is so transformative is that it cultivates an environment where we “partner with God to bring the kingdom into our midst.” Kelly underscores four main benefits tied to fasting. First, it “propagates a kingdom encounter” by creating space to sow spiritual seeds, much like Jesus’ exchange with the Samaritan woman at the well. Christ found sustenance in doing the Father’s will, reminding us that there’s a higher satisfaction than mere physical nourishment.

Second, fasting carries a “kingdom reward.” In Matthew 6, Jesus promises that God rewards those who fast in secret. Whether the reward is deeper intimacy with Him, victory over persistent struggles, or fresh revelation, Scripture makes it clear that God honors the humble posture fasting represents. Third, fasting has the power to overcome opposition. This includes internal strongholds like addiction or shame, as well as external spiritual resistance. Kelly points to moments like Jesus casting out stubborn demons, emphasizing that some breakthroughs require both prayer and fasting.

Finally, fasting expands the kingdom to others. Kelly challenges us to consider that our churches might be “static or anemic” partially because we neglect this radical practice. Throughout history, revivals and awakenings were often birthed by believers who prayed and fasted in extraordinary ways. That same divine principle applies today: if we want to see transformation in our families, communities, and even nations, we need to reclaim biblical fasting.

Fasting can take various forms: skipping a meal, abstaining from certain foods, or sacrificing social media or entertainment. The goal isn’t religious box-checking but intentionally creating room for the Holy Spirit to move. Practical steps include examining motives, making a plan, and binding prayers to God’s promises, as suggested by 2 Peter 1:4 and 2 Corinthians 1:20. Jesus modeled this discipline in Luke 4 when He faced temptation, demonstrating that sustained spiritual focus brings victory over the enemy.

Kelly also points out that fasting, when done with the right motives, connects us to 1 Corinthians 4:20—“the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.” With so many cultural distractions, it’s easy to lose sight of the fact that our deepest need is God Himself. Fasting helps recalibrate our hearts, reminding us that our true satisfaction comes from encountering and partnering with Him in His work.

Ultimately, the question is: Are we willing to exchange temporary comforts for something eternal? Kelly reminds us that Jesus once said, “I have food to eat that you do not know about,” highlighting that obeying God’s will nourishes our souls in ways worldly pleasures never can. If you find yourself restless and spiritually hungry, consider how a fast might open the door to fresh encounters with God. As we tap into this “secret weapon for spiritual transformation,” we just might discover that what we surrender pales in comparison to what we gain.