RESOURCES
FASTING: SIMPLY STATED, BIBLICAL FASTING IS REFRAINING FROM FOOD FOR A SPIRITUAL PURPOSE.
According to the Bible, there are three duties of every Christian: give, pray and fast. Biblical fasting takes a lot of discipline and strength—strength which you can only receive from God. Your private discipline will bring you rewards in Heaven, says Matthew 6.
WHY SHOULD I FAST?
Are you in need of healing or a miracle?
Do you need the tender touch of God in your life?
Is there a dream inside you that only He can make possible?
Are you in need of a fresh encounter?
Do you desire a deeper, more intimate, and powerful relationship with the Lord?
Are you ready to have heightened sensitivity to the desires of God?
Do you need to break away from bondages that have been holding you hostage?
Is there a friend or loved one that needs Salvation?
Do you desire to know God’s will for your life?
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES FOR FASTING:
Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 9:14-15, Matthew 17:21
Remember that it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him to which God responds with a blessing!
TYPES OF FASTINGS
There are several types of fasting. The one you choose is between you and God. He will honor your best sacrifice.
(Click below to check out the types!)
Drink only liquids (you establish the number of days).
Eat no meat, no sweets, and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables.
This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast, or give up at least one item of food.
A partial fast is from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm or from sun up to sundown. You can select from three types of fasting —a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.
TIPS FOR FASTING
-How to Begin
Start with a clear goal. Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, restoration of marriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Pray daily and read the Bible.
-Preparing Spiritually
Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4).
-What to Expect
When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mindset on seeking God’s face.
-How to End
Don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.
WEEK of PRAYER + FASTING
Click through below to see the prayer focus and points for each day of the week!
Prayer Focus:
Your relationship with God.
When the connection with your heavenly Father is strong, you are better prepared to contribute to His Kingdom.
Prayer Points:
-PRAY for a deeper desire to know God and spend time with Him.
-ASK for a heart that listens, trusts, and obeys as God leads you.
-PRAY that your life would reflect Christ in attitude, words, and actions.
Prayer Focus:
Your family.
It is important to take time to pray for those related to you.
Prayer Points:
-PRAY for unity, love, and healthy communication within your family.
-ASK God to bring healing, protection, and peace where there is conflict or need.
-PRAY that each family member would grow in faith and walk in God’s purpose.
Prayer Focus:
Your church family.
It is important to pray for your pastors and church family.
Prayer Points:
-PRAY for unity, spiritual growth, and genuine community within the church.
-ASK God to strengthen and protect pastors, leaders, and volunteers.
-PRAY that the church would boldly live out and share The Gospel in love.
Prayer Focus:
Your friends.
Let the importance of your friendships move you to pray for them regularly.
Prayer Points:
-PRAY for strong, encouraging, and God-honoring friendships.
-ASK God to guide, protect, and strengthen your friends in every season.
-PRAY that your friendships would be rooted in love, honesty, and faith.
Prayer Focus:
The Nation.
It is important, in a time of division and strife, to pray for our nation and its people.
Prayer Points:
-PRAY for wisdom, humility, and integrity among leaders at every level.
-ASK God to heal division and bring peace to communities.
-PRAY for justice, compassion, and care for the vulnerable.
Prayer Focus:
The world.
Pray for those who live in places that don’t have the same religious freedoms as you. Pray that God’s Word would reach everyone across the globe.
Prayer POINTS:
-PRAY for peace in places affected by war, violence, and unrest.
-ASK God to bring hope and help to those suffering from poverty, disaster, or persecution.
-PRAY for unity, compassion, and the spread of The Gospel throughout the world.
