The True Fast

By: Eric Betts

The Lenten season is traditionally marked by fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, guiding believers to a deeper spiritual connection. While fasting from food is often emphasized, the concept of fasting extends beyond the physical to encompass the transformation of the heart and mind. A commitment to permanently fast from comparison, greed or gluttony, and backbiting offers a profound path to spiritual renewal, fostering love, humility, and generosity in one’s daily life.

Fasting from comparison challenges the individual to break free from the constant measurement of oneself against others. In a world saturated with social media and societal expectations, comparison can breed envy and discontentment. Lent invites believers to embrace their uniqueness and recognize the blessings in their own lives. Refraining from comparison, causes one to cultivates gratitude and the ability to celebrate others’ successes without jealousy or resentment, drawing closer to God’s image of love and unity.

Greed and gluttony are temptations that pull the heart away from spiritual fulfillment. Permanent fasting from these tendencies involves a mindful approach to consumption—be it material wealth, food, or other resources. This shift encourages individuals to prioritize generosity and selflessness, as they learn to share abundantly with others. Such fasting from greed, helps one build a deeper connection to the underserved, serving as a vessel for compassion and empathy, embodying the call to care for the less fortunate.

Finally, backbiting undermines relationships and erodes the foundation of community. Choosing to fast from gossip and harmful speech means practicing kindness, forgiveness, and constructive dialogue. It is a commitment to speak life into others rather than tear them down. This deliberate decision to avoid backbiting fosters harmony and trust, creating a spirit of togetherness that reflects the teachings of Christ. Permanent fasting from these destructive behaviors transforms Lent from a temporary practice to a lifelong journey of spiritual growth and personal integrity.

By: Eric Betts Assistant Professor

Course Developer, Hampton University School of Religion