On today’s Bible Answer Man broadcast (06/04/21), Hank continues talking about fasting, whose primary purpose is to experience God as the source and the substance of life that is truly life. To, as it were, taste the heavenly manna. To drink divine water so that you never have to thirst again. To recognize union with Christ as the apex of human existence. As we behold Him, we become what we were designed to be—followers of Christ growing in His image and being transformed into His likeness. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus placed fasting on par with prayer and almsgiving as “an act of righteousness.” Not to be seen by men, but by our Father “who sees what is done in secret.” Indeed, prayer, almsgiving, and fasting are inextricably woven as one. As the living discipline of fasting fortifies our supplications, so also it opens our hearts to the needs of the poor and downtrodden. The genuine love of God will inevitably stimulate a reciprocal love for needy human beings who bear His image and likeness upon the earth. And when this is so, God will infuse you with His uncreated energy. Though your stomach may be empty, your spirit will be fully satisfied. You will experience the life of God springing up within you like a river of living water.