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As I’ve committed to regular 40-hour fasting, I’ve encountered some confusion among fellow Latter-day Saints. Many have questioned whether fasting more than once a month—or longer than the traditional 24-hour Fast Sunday—is appropriate. Being relatively new to the Church, I asked around and found that while longer fasts aren’t typical, I still wanted to ensure that my efforts aligned with Church teachings.
So I did some digging. After reviewing Church materials and scripture, I was relieved and encouraged to find clear doctrinal and scriptural support for extended, personal fasts. The Church teaches that fasting helps us resist temptation, draw closer to God, and remain humble:
“Through fasting, we can gain strength to resist temptations and receive comfort during trials (see Matthew 4:2–4; Alma 30:1–2). In addition, fasting helps us be more humble, as it reminds us of our total dependence on God (see Psalm 35:13).” — LDS Fasting and Fast Offerings Study Guide
Scripturally, there’s also precedent for going beyond 24 hours. In Mosiah 27:23, it says:
“And it came to pass after they had fasted and prayed for the space of two days and two nights, the limbs of Alma received their strength…”
This passage affirmed what I was already feeling—that when done with sincere intent and spiritual purpose, longer fasts are not only acceptable, but can be deeply transformative.
For me personally, one of the biggest reasons I’ve committed to extended fasting is to shed unhealthy habits, particularly my excessive use of social media. Over time, I’ve found myself consistently falling back into bad digital habits, and it’s something I’ve been trying to let go of.
To my surprise (and encouragement), I discovered that President Russell M. Nelson has specifically invited Church members to fast from social media—not just once, but on two separate occasions: once for seven days and another for ten. His invitation hit me hard. Although his message was directed broadly, it felt like he was speaking directly to me.
“Give yourself a seven-day break from fake… disengage from a constant reliance on social media,” President Nelson said in his 2019 message to the youth.
“This social media fast can be just between you and the Lord. It will be your sign to Him that you are willing to step away from the world in order to enlist in His youth battalion.” — Your 7-Day Social Media Fast
Even though I’m not in my youth anymore, that message still resonates. I’ve failed to disconnect many times, but I feel a renewed sense of purpose and motivation. As I end my fast tomorrow, I’m committing to finally follow through on a seven-day social media fast.
I truly love the guidance this Church offers—it’s not just tradition, it’s a path forward. And I’m more determined than ever to walk it.
