Is Fasting Biblical?

There are many scriptures that discuss fasting in the Bible. Jesus himself fasted and fully expected his followers to fast (Matthew 6). The following are other instances in the Bible when men and women of God fasted.

Genesis 24:33-the servant of Abraham fasted on behalf of finding Isaac a wife

Exodus 34:27-28-It was during a 40 day fast that Moses received the Ten Commandments

Judges 19 & 20-Fasting made the difference in the battle

Esther 4:16-When Haman ordered the annihilation of all Jews, Esther called for the Jews to join her on a 3 day fast-the results were the Jews were spared.

1 Samuel 1:7-Hannah received a son, Samuel, after fasting

I Kings 19:8-Elijah fasted 40 days

II Chronicles 20-Entire nation fasted to get direction from God

Ezra 8:21-Ezra called for a fast to get safe direction and the Lord did so

Daniel 10:2 & 3-Daniel partially fasted 21 days & often fasted one day at a time

Joel 2:15, 28-29-The nation of Israel is called to fast, after which the promise of the Holy Ghost is given

Jonah 3:5-A pagan nation fasted when the heard the wrath of God was coming & they were spared

Matthew 17:21-Some demons are only defeated through prayer and fasting

Mark 2:18-20-Jesus assures them that His followers will be fasters

Luke 2:36-37-Anna fasted well past 80 years of age

Luke 4:1 & 2-Jesus fasted 40 days

Acts 9:9, II Corinthians 11:27-Paul fasted once for 3 days, once for 14 days, and many other times recorded in Scriptures

Acts 10:30-44-Cornelius fasted and received the baptism of the Holy Ghost

Acts 13:1-4-Fasting enabled them to hear the call of God