The “Jesus of Zimbabwe” as they called him. He has died after attempting Christ’s 40-day desert fast.
Khulu Reinfirst Manyuka, 73, reportedly went into the African bush in mid-June in an attempt to fulfill Christ’s 40-day fast or even break the Son of God’s record, according to multiple reports.
“He was a very spiritual man. It’s unfortunate he had to die this way,” one family member said.
Malnutrition deaths from fasting are not unheard of, particularly in African culture.
“Traditionally, religious fasting has a very flexible role in all religions, with considerable creativity involved in what and when one can and cannot eat,” King’s College’s Dr. Marat Shterin said of a 2006 fasting death”…. Sometimes people can go over the top, particularly in some sectarian groups and cults.
“While some African churches do not actually encourage strict dieting, the personal involvement of some of their members in religion can be very intense.”
Biblically, fasting is a principle of Christian living, but there are healthy ways to limit food intake.
Fasting is not intended to punish the flesh, but to redirect attention to God. This is not a way to get God to do what we want. Fasting changes us, not God. Fasting is not a way to appear more spiritual than others. Fasting is to be done in a spirit of humility and a joyful attitude.
Here are the 10 insights for healthy fasting:
1. Prepare your mind
2. Stock up
3. Drink water
4. Go easy
6. Be wise
7. Determine the length
8. Know the symptoms
9. Pray
10. Break smart
By taking our eyes off the things of this world, we can more successfully turn our attention to Christ. How do you prepare for your fasting? Click on the banner below.