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