Which of the following is a purpose of fasting?

Fasting is primarily seen as a spiritual discipline intended to draw individuals closer to God. This practice often involves abstaining from food, and in some cases, other activities, to create space for prayer, reflection, and deeper communion with the divine. Through fasting, believers seek to enhance their spiritual focus, gain clarity in prayer, and demonstrate a desire for a deeper relationship with God.

While the other options touch on various aspects of life, they do not encompass the core spiritual purpose of fasting as understood within many religious traditions, including the Church of God. Gaining financial stability and seeking community recognition are earthly pursuits that may distract from the spiritual intent of fasting. Improving physical health can be a beneficial side effect of fasting but is not the primary motivation from a spiritual perspective. Therefore, the essence of fasting as a means to draw close to God encapsulates its foundational intent within the context of faith and worship.