The Esther Fast: A Journey of Faith and a Serious Wake-Up Call
Shalom, friends. As we approach the season of Purim, many of us feel the spiritual pull to participate in the Esther (Hadassah) Fast. It is a powerful time of intercession, but I have a deeply personal reason for writing this post today: I had a heart attack scare today when I tried starting a fast like this.
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| Wisely Approach Esther Fasting |
Fasting with Complex Health Needs
It is important to be transparent about my health journey. I am over 65 and live with Lupus and hypothyroidism. To manage these, I take thyroxin daily, along with a baby aspirin for my heart. I also manage a heart rate that sometimes drops very low—to 30 BPM.
Fasting while managing autoimmune conditions and heart medication requires extreme caution. When my heart rate slowed significantly during this attempt, it served as a vital reminder that our spiritual zeal must be balanced with the stewardship of the bodies we’ve been given.
Crucial Step: Consult Your Specialists
If you are considering undertaking a fast, please schedule an appointment with your cardiologist or rheumatologist to discuss if it is safe. A qualified medical professional is the only person who can assess your specific situation and provide advice tailored to your needs. They can also recommend alternatives if a full fast is deemed unsafe.
Safety First: Recognizing Heart Distress
It is vital to know the difference between fasting-related gas pains and actual cardiac distress. According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, you should seek immediate help if you experience:
- Chest discomfort: Pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain.
- Sweating: Cold or clammy skin.
- Upper body discomfort: Pain radiating to neck, jaw, or arms.
- Shortness of breath or light-headedness.
- Significant heart rate changes: Especially if you already experience bradycardia (low heart rate).
The Esther Fast: Spiritual Intercession and Physical Wisdom
We look to the Book of Esther for our inspiration. When the decree of Haman threatened our people, Hadassah did not rely on her royal status—she relied on the King of Kings.
"Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do..."
— Esther 4:16
As believers, we see the Fast of Esther as a shadow of the sacrifice of Yeshua. When we fast, we align ourselves with the Spirit of Intercession. However, we must steward the temples the Lord has given us, especially when managing chronic illness.
Health and Faith: Following Guidelines
The Lord desires our hearts, not our harm. If a total fast is dangerous for you, consider these alternatives:
- The Daniel Fast: Abstaining from choice foods but continuing to hydrate.
- Intermittent Fasting: Fasting during specific hours to maintain medication schedules.
- Medical Supervision: Consult your doctor about how fasting affects your heart rate and thyroid levels. Use resources from the Heart and Stroke Foundation for guidance.
May your time of seeking the Lord be fruitful, safe, and filled with His presence. Remember: the scepter of the King is always extended to those who come in faith and wisdom.
Disclaimer: This content is a personal testimony and is not medical advice. Fasting can be dangerous for those with underlying health conditions, heart issues, or those on medication. Always consult your physician before changing your diet or starting a fast.
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