DISCOVER JOSHUA WILDERNESS INSTITUTE
Joshua Program:
The Joshua Fast
A Sacred Reset: Removing Distractions to Make Room for God
Choosing Stillness in a World That Won't Stop
At the Joshua Wilderness Institute, one of the most transformative parts of the experience isn’t something we add—it’s what you choose to give up.
The Joshua Fast is a countercultural commitment to eliminate common distractions and create space for authentic connection with God and others.
Choosing to fast from entertainment, social media, and romantic relationships creates space to be fully present—to hear God’s voice and build real, meaningful relationships.
When students say no to these things, it allows them to say yes to God and others in a way that’s nearly impossible anywhere else.
MISSION-DRIVEN
one of the most transformative parts of the experience isn’t something we add—it’s what You Choose to give up.
What Is the Joshua Fast?
- No movies, TV shows, YouTube, or streaming content
- No video games or phone games
- No prerecorded music (live music is encouraged—bring your instrument!)
- No social media (all platforms deactivated for nine months)
- No furthering or initiating romantic relationships*
- Be fully present with peers and with God
- Break coping habits that distract from growth
- Build resilience and spiritual focus in a world full of noise
- Pursue genuine accountability, honesty, and personal repentance
Why We Fast
We believe technology, entertainment, and relationships are gifts to be enjoyed in their proper context.
However, in the fast-paced world of everyday life, these things often become distractions.
The Joshua Fast helps students:
- Choose God over constant input and noise
- Learn new ways to manage boredom, anxiety, or stress without defaulting to screens
- Deepen relational connection through face-to-face conversation, vulnerability, and time spent in real community
It’s a sacred reset that invites students to discover who they are without the constant influence of culture—and who God is in the stillness.
A Culture of Presence and Purpose
The Joshua Fast helps foster an environment where authentic relationships flourish and spiritual disciplines thrive. Without the noise, students:
- Talk more, reflect more, and rest more
- Engage deeply with Scripture and prayer
- Discover joy in simplicity and silence
- Grow in emotional health and self-awareness
MISSION-DRIVEN
As one student put it, “It wasn’t easy, but it changed everything.”
Not Just for Now, But for Life
The Joshua Fast isn’t just about giving something up—it’s about learning to live differently. Many students find that what they gain far outweighs what they lay down.
They leave Joshua with:
- A deeper intimacy with God
- Healthier habits for media and relationships
- A clearer sense of identity and purpose
- The freedom to say no to the noise