“When you fast…”, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting” – Jesus.
There are overwhelming examples and exhortations in the Bible in regards to fasting and prayer. Jesus modeled it, instructed His disciples in it, and the New Testament letters speak of the early church practicing it. When we consider the frequent mention we can’t help but wonder why fasting and prayer is not more commonly practiced.

I realize that as I ask this church family to join together in prayer and fasting that some have never fasted. For some the thought of going extended periods without food is not appealing at all. First, Jesus would not ask us to do something that was not possible to do, nor would He ask us to do something that was pointless.  Fasting and prayer belong together, for you cannot benefit spiritually when you fast physically unless you are in prayer.

Fasting is done by many different people for many different reasons; athletes fast to purge their bodies so they can perform better, physicians advise fasting for some ailments or conditions, cults and other groups fast to awaken or get the attention of their gods. But a God led fast (Isaiah 58) is the fast that puts Him first and seeks His will. Biblical fasting is done for many reasons such as to:

1. Obey God (Isaiah 58:6)
2. Deny the flesh and discern His will (Daniel 9:3)
3. Strengthen the spiritual man (Matthew 4:2)
4. Honor God; without seeking attention from men. (Matthew 6:16)
5. Open our eyes and heart to what God desires to do and is doing. (Acts 13:2,3)

Fasting is not a way to redirect the hand of God, rather it is a discipline that helps us to see the heart of God. Fasting helps to awaken us so we can hear what God is saying. Also, in a very intriguing way, it invokes the power of God in a given situation or need. (Mark 9:29) A fast may be done in various ways; Daniel was led by the Spirit to abstain from the Babylonian delicacies (Daniel 1:8), Jesus fasted from food, and the early church regularly fasted and prayed for God’s strength and direction.
I am asking that as followers of Jesus Christ we join together this week in fasting and prayer. How long you fast or what you fast from is between you and God (read Isaiah 58). I encourage you to sit before Him and allow Him to lead in this time. He will lead you in prayer, reveal His love and guide you into all truth when you put Him first.
Along with your personal time, I encourage you to join us at the church for group prayer and worship at the times listed below:

Monday 6:30pm, Tuesday 6:30am, Wednesday 6:30pm, Thursday at 12:00pm.

Childcare will be available on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday meeting times.
I will be sending out prayer points and personal perspectives throughout the week and encourage you to also share what God is speaking to you during this time. I look forward to what God will do in and through us as He knits our hearts together and prepares us for what He has in store.

In His Love,

Pastor Dan