Taught of God himself

11. These were the appointed means. For it was not merely by the light of reason, or of natural conscience, (as it is called) that the people of God have been in all ages directed, to use fasting as a means to these ends. But they have been from time to time taught it of God himself, by clear and open revelations of his will. Such is that remarkable one by the prophet Joel, Therefore thus saith the Lord, turn you unto me, with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning――Who knoweth if the Lord will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him? Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly. Then will the Lord be jealous over his land, and will spare his people. Yea, I will send you corn and wine and oil――I will no more make you a reproach among the Heathen.