Prayer & Fasting

October 19, 2018

“Is this not the fast which I choose, to loosen the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the oppressed go free and break every yoke?” Isaiah 58:6

I’m dedicating this week, October 21-25, to prayer and fasting for our church and for our country. We’ll be praying together in the Worship Center every night this week: Sunday-Thursday 6:30-8 p.m.

WHY WE FAST. Fasting is one of the biblical ways to seek breakthrough. In fasting, we break sin patterns in our lives. Fasting is sowing to your spirit. When you fast, you’re saying, “Flesh, you’re not the boss.” It humbles the soul (Psalm 35:13b) and addresses the pride we all think we don’t have. Paul wrote: “I discipline my body and make it my slave” (1 Corinthians 9:27a).

WHAT TO FAST. Approach fasting prayerfully. Don’t get legalistic. God may be calling you to fast just one meal. Daniel in the Bible fasted everything but vegetables (Daniel 1:12-18). Or you might fast media: King Darius fasted entertainment while Daniel was in the lions’ den (Daniel 6:18). Use wisdom; if you have blood sugar or medication issues, don’t just stop eating. The point is to ask God what kind of fast He is calling you to.

THE RESULT OF FASTING. Ninety-nine percent of fasting isn’t all that exciting. It sows seeds that may not be visible immediately but will yield amazing fruit. You may not sense the breakthrough at the time of your fast, but know that you will walk into blessing and clarity. God has some significant things up ahead. As we fast and pray, we will see breakthrough and we will receive direction.

God bless you,
Pastor Jeff Perry

PRAY THIS PRAYER:
Thank You, God, that this is a year of fruitfulness. I dedicate this week to prayer and fasting. I thank You for strength, fulfillment, achievement, prosperity, and abundance in my life, in our church, and for our country, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

PRAY:
• For the removal of obstacles.
• For increased love.
• For God’s perfect will.
• For spiritual growth.
• With the end in mind.