The follow types of fasts (adapted from Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough, A Guide to Nine Biblical Fasts by Elmer L. Towns) are representative of biblical fasts but are not an exhaustive list. Duration of fasts, as recorded in the Bible, range from a portion of 1 day to 40 days.
The Disciple's Fast
"...to set the oppressed free and break every yoke..." (Isaiah 58:6c)
Purpose: To free ourselves and/or others from addictions to sin.
Basis: Matthew 17:19-20
Promise: John 8:36; 1 Corinthians 10:13
The Ezra Fast
"...to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yok..." (Isaiah 58:6)
Purpose: To ask the Holy Spirit for discernment and guidance in overcoming difficulties.
Basis: Ezra 8:21-23
Promise: Romans 8:28
The Samuel Fast
"...to set the oppressed free..." (Isaiah 58:6)
Purpose: To pray for revival and renewal of believers; to intercede for the sins of others and the salvation of the lost.
Basis: 1 Samuel 7:5-6
Promise: 2 Chronicles 7:14; Psalm 85:4-7; Acts 2:17, 3:19
The Elijah Fast
"...to...break every yoke..." (Isaiah 58:6)
Purpose: To surrender control of our lives to God; to break negative habits.
Basis: 1 Kings 19:3-8
Promise: 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 2 Timothy 1:7; Hebrews 13:5-6
The Widow's Fast
"...to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter..." (Isaiah 58:7)
Purpose: To meet the humanitarian needs of others.
Basis: 1 Kings 17:13-16
Promise: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
The St. Paul Fast
"Then your light will break forth like the dawn..." (Isaiah 58:8)
Purpose: To invite divine discernment and wisdom for decision-making.
Basis: Acts 9:8-19
Promise: Isaiah 48:17, 58:11; Matthew 6:33; Romans 12:2
The Daniel Fast
"...your healing will quickly appear..." (Isaiah 58:8)
Purpose: To acknowledge God as Sustainer and Healer.
Basis: Daniel 1:8-17
Promise: 1 Corinthians 10:31, James 5:13-16
The John the Baptist Fast
"...then your righteousness will go before you..." (Isaiah 58:8)
Purpose: To enhance our testimony and influence for Jesus.
Basis: Luke 1:14-17
Promise: Matthew 5:14-16; Ephesians 6:19-20; Philippians 1:20-21
The Esther Fast
"...the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard..." (Isaiah 58:8)
Purpose: To protect us from the enemy.
Basis: Esther 4:15-16
Promise: Ephesians 6:10-18; Peter 5:8-11