Most people have prayed at sometime in their life, whether their Christian or not. When a horrific or scary situation arises, our lips utter a plea to our Creator. It's may even be just one word. Jesus.
The one word of Jesus encompasses all we need. It is the answer to every emotion or situation we will encounter.
While at Bible study last week, we were reading through The Power of a Praying® Woman by Stormie Omartian, one line stood out for me. We were reading through the list of 5 weapons to fight the enemy and the 5th one grabbed me. Praying and fasting.
I've seen the Lord work miracles in my life and in those around me. I've felt His power, His healing, His forgiveness, and grace. I've prayed on my knees, I've prayed in bed, I've prayed while going about my day, I've prayed out loud, I've prayed silently, but I've never fasted.
Fasting is simply denying yourself of food or drink, to show faith and as a prayer. There are debates on if you have to water fast (where you only have water), a certain amount of time, one meal, or giving up one thing. I'm not about to answer that question.
But the Bible is very clear that we are to fast. Jesus fasted 40 days and 40 nights. The prophets and disciples fasted.
So we fasted, and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer. (NIV) Ezra 8:23
This week, I'm giving up coffee. I'm amazed at how much more water I drink, seem to crave even, when I'm not drinking anything with caffeine or sugar.
And with all the water I'm consuming I felt God whisper this to me, “You see how much better plain water is, how your body feels nourished, sated. Imagine how your soul will feel when you fill it with me, the Living Water.” Tweet this
I don't know if giving up coffee is considered a fast by all, but it's already showing me more of God.
Have you ever fasted? Did you see or hear from God as a result.
I don’t know all the ins and outs about fasting, but I have did a few in my (almost) 40 years as a Christian. Jesus said that some “results” will only be seen as a result of prayer AND fasting. God shows up when we are serious about what He says. Sort of like when God said, “You will seek me and find me WHEN you seek me with all your heart. I WILL be found by you, says the LORD.” I guess what happens is that you believe God so much that you EXPECT God to keep His word… And Fasting is a outward sign (or denial) of an inward believing. BTW I have been “fasting” TV and spending time in the word and prayer for months. God is honored when we fast… even coffee. : )
One last thought, Original sin involved eating what they were told they couldn’t … Fast is loving God (wanting God) so much that we deny ourselves what we are allowed to eat… or could do.
Steve, excellent insights and thoughts. Thank you for sharing. I’ve given up certain TV shows and I gave up all music except Christian praise songs. It’s made a huge difference.
I believe God always hears our prayers (if we are saved), but if we fast I believe it’s a way to show our commitment and complete, whole-hearted yearning for whatever we are praying whether it be guidance, peace or a specific request. Of course as you pointed out it can be a way to grow closer to the Lord. I have never fasted although I’ve understood it’s teaching and power in the Bible. I thank you for your post though because it’s made me THINK about it more; maybe I’ll use it in the near future.
Leslie, if you do fast, I’d love to hear on what you hear from God and how ti went for you. I’m so glad this encouraged you. 🙂 Blessings!
Yes, Melissa–I know my husband has reached some major breakthroughs with fasting. I haven’t fasted for quite a long time, and I do believe it is a way to keep yourself focused on God as you pray about your heavy burdens. Loved this reminder today to stay close to the Living Water!
It’s funny, I’ve known what fasting was my entire life, but I’ve never applied. Glad God doesn’t let us sit where we are, but keeps us moving closer to Him. 🙂 Glad you enjoyed.