We know Jesus fasted in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-2). We know that Jesus often went off alone to pray (Luke 5:16). So, it is not a stretch to think that Jesus spent those 40 days in the wilderness praying. As a result, He was able to withstand Satan’s attacks.
“Jesus himself has shown us by his own example that prayer and fasting
are the first and most effective weapons against the forces of evil.”
Pope John Paul II
There are many reasons to combine fasting and praying in the Bible.
The prophet Daniel, when he realized that Israel’s banishment was almost over, prayed and fasted in confession and repentance for his people. (Daniel 9:2-3 NLT)
Ezra and the people traveling to rebuild Jerusalem prayed and fasted for safety.
So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer. Ezra 8:23 NLT
Prayer and fasting are two wings of which our hearts soar to God.
Blessed Theresa Gerhardinger
Anna, an 84-year-old widow who her days in the Temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer, was among the first to recognize the infant Messiah (Luke 2:36-38 NLT).
Jesus, emphasizing the importance of faith, said that prayer and fasting were necessary to increase that faith.
“Because you have so little faith,” replied Jesus. “I assure you that if you have as much faith as a grain of mustard-seed you can say to this hill, ‘Up you get and move over there!’ and it will move—you will find nothing is impossible.” “However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting” Matthew 17:20-23 J.B. Phillips New Testament
Bear up the hands that hang down, by faith and prayer;
support the tottering knees.
Have you any days of fasting and prayer?
Storm the Throne of Grace and persevere therein,
And mercy will come down.
John Wesley