What does the Bible say about prayer and fasting?

In the Scriptures, prayer and fasting are often associated with deep spiritual concern and earnestness before God. Nehemiah, for instance, fasted and prayed for days when he learned of the distress in Jerusalem. This demonstrates a heart that is genuinely moved by the plight of others and a desire to seek God's favor. When we fast, we set aside earthly comforts to focus more on prayer, thereby drawing closer to God and seeking His intervention in urgent matters. Matthew 6:16-18 instructs believers on the proper attitude for fasting, emphasizing that it should be an act of sincerity rather than for show.