Olubunmi Giwa
Fasting, a practice embraced by many cultures and religions, holds a deep spiritual significance. It’s a time of reflection, self-discipline, and devotion.
Hymns, with their powerful lyrics and melodies, often capture the essence of fasting, offering solace and inspiration to those on this spiritual journey.
In this list, we explore 20 hymns about fasting that beautifully express the themes of fasting, drawing from various traditions and perspectives.
Whether you’re observing a religious fast or seeking a deeper connection with your inner self, these hymns are sure to resonate with the solemnity and grace of the fasting experience.
Hymns About Fasting
1. “We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder” – African American Spiritual
This hymn’s imagery of climbing Jacob’s ladder can symbolize the ascent of the soul through fasting. It speaks to the journey of spiritual growth and the striving for higher ideals, echoing the perseverance and commitment required during a fast.
2. “Be Thou My Vision” – Attributed to Dallan Forgaill
Asking for divine guidance and clarity of vision, this hymn resonates with the introspective nature of fasting. It reflects a desire to see beyond the physical and material, seeking a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s purpose.
3. “Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah” – William Williams, John Hughes
This hymn, also known as “Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer,” is a prayer for divine guidance and protection on life’s journey. During a fast, it serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual sustenance and strength from a higher power.
4. “Come, Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy” – Joseph Hart
Fasting often involves a recognition of one’s shortcomings and a desire for spiritual renewal. This hymn’s invitation to come to Jesus for rest and salvation speaks to the repentant heart seeking forgiveness and grace during a fast.
5. “Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days” – Claudia F. Hernaman
Based on the traditional Lenten hymn “Attende Domine,” this text reflects on Christ’s forty days of fasting in the wilderness. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual discipline and preparation that fasting can entail, leading to a deeper communion with God.
6. “Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken” – Henry F. Lyte
Fasting is often seen as a way to share in Christ’s suffering and sacrifice. This hymn expresses a willingness to bear one’s cross, embracing the trials and challenges of life, including the discipline of fasting, with faith and courage.
7. “O Food to Pilgrims Given” – St. Thomas Aquinas
In the Eucharistic hymn “O Sacrum Convivium,” St. Thomas Aquinas reflects on the spiritual nourishment provided by the body and blood of Christ. During a fast, this hymn can remind believers of the sustenance found in God’s word and presence, which can satisfy the soul’s deepest hunger.
8. “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” – John Greenleaf Whittier
This hymn, based on a poem by Whittier, reflects on the need for quiet reflection and inner peace. It resonates with the contemplative aspect of fasting, emphasizing the importance of stillness and listening for the voice of God.
9. “Take up Thy Cross, the Savior Said” – Charles William Everest
Fasting can be seen as a form of taking up one’s cross, as Christ instructed his followers to do. This hymn encourages believers to take up their cross with patience and trust, knowing that God’s grace will sustain them.
10. “God of Grace and God of Glory” – Harry Emerson Fosdick
This hymn, often used as a processional or recessional during worship services, calls on God’s grace and guidance. It can serve as a reminder during a fast that God’s grace is sufficient for all needs, providing strength and courage for the journey ahead.
11. “Abide With Me” – Henry Francis Lyte
This hymn, often sung at times of reflection and mourning, expresses a desire for God’s presence and comfort. During a fast, it can serve as a source of encouragement, reminding believers that God is with them in their times of trial and need.
12. “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – Isaac Watts
This hymn reflects on the sacrifice of Christ on the cross and the profound impact it has on believers’ lives. During a fast, it can help believers reflect on the depth of God’s love and the significance of Christ’s sacrifice, leading to a renewed commitment to following him.
13. “Come, Ye Thankful People, Come” – Henry Alford
While traditionally a harvest hymn, the themes of gratitude and thanksgiving can also be applied to the spiritual harvest reaped through fasting. It encourages believers to come together in thankfulness for God’s provision and grace.
14. “Bread of the World in Mercy Broken” – Reginald Heber
This hymn focused on the Eucharist, reflects on the broken body of Christ as a symbol of his sacrifice for humanity. During a fast, it can serve as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and the spiritual nourishment he provides.
15. “Lord, Speak to Me, That I May Speak” – Frances R. Havergal
This hymn is a prayer for God’s guidance and empowerment to speak his words of truth and grace. During a fast, it can serve as a reminder of the importance of prayer and listening to God’s voice, both in personal reflection and in speaking to others.
16. “Jesus, the Very Thought of Thee” – Bernard of Clairvaux, Edward Caswall
This hymn expresses the deep longing and love for Jesus Christ. During a fast, it can serve as a reminder of the central focus of one’s devotion and the source of strength and inspiration for the fast.
17. “Take My Life, and Let It Be” – Frances R. Havergal
This hymn is a prayer of consecration, offering all aspects of one’s life to God. During a fast, it can serve as a commitment to live in accordance with God’s will, surrendering one’s desires and ambitions to him.
18. “The King of Love My Shepherd Is” – Henry W. Baker
Based on Psalm 23, this hymn portrays God as a loving and caring shepherd. During a fast, it can offer comfort and assurance that God will provide for all needs and lead believers on the right path.
19. “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say” – Horatius Bonar
This hymn reflects on the invitation of Jesus to find rest and peace in him. During a fast, it can serve as a reminder of Jesus’ presence and his promise to satisfy the soul’s deepest needs.
20. “Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence” – Liturgy of St. James
This ancient hymn, often used during communion services, reflects on the awe and reverence due to God. During a fast, it can remind believers of the need for humility and reverence in approaching God, recognizing his holiness and majesty.
Finding Spiritual Nourishnent
As you reflect on these hymns about fasting, may they inspire you in your own spiritual journey. Fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it’s about drawing closer to God, seeking His will, and finding strength in His presence.
Let these hymns be a source of comfort and encouragement, reminding you that you are not alone on this journey. Just as the hymn writers found solace and inspiration in their faith, may you also find peace and joy in the practice of fasting.
Let these hymns be a soundtrack to your spiritual discipline, guiding you as you seek a deeper connection with the divine.
