Prayer and Fasting

Dear Child,

As we explore the sacred practices of prayer and fasting, drawing inspiration from the profound teachings in Scripture, I want to share wisdom that holds the power to deepen our connection with our Father in heaven.

• Fasting: A Humble Act of Self-Denial - In Deuteronomy 9:18, we find guidance on fasting as a deliberate act of self-denial. It allows us to detach from the material world and turn our focus inward, creating a space for spiritual growth and connection.

• Fasting as Spiritual Discipline: A Heartfelt Connection - Fasting, as portrayed in Matthew 6:16-18, transcends a mere abstention from food. It is a spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God. The emphasis here is on the authenticity of our connection—fasting with a genuine heart, a sincerity that resonates with the Divine. "But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen."

• The Prophetic Tradition of Fasting: A Call to Repentance - Throughout the Bible, prophets engaged in fasting as a powerful expression of repentance and seeking God's guidance. In the book of Joel 2:12, the prophet calls, "'Even now,' declares the Lord, 'return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.'" Fasting becomes a poignant way to turn our hearts back to God, aligning ourselves with the prophetic tradition of seeking spiritual renewal.

• Corporate Fasting: Uniting in Spiritual Purpose - Fasting is not solely an individual practice but has a powerful impact when embraced collectively. In the book of Ezra 8:23, we witness corporate fasting as a means to seek God's protection and guidance: "So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer." The unity in purpose enhances the spiritual potency of fasting, emphasizing communal growth and transformation.

• Fasting in Times of Crisis: A Path to Dependence on God - The Bible reveals instances where fasting becomes a response to crises, signifying a deep reliance on God. In 2 Chronicles 20:3, King Jehoshaphat proclaims a fast as a response to an impending threat, acknowledging their dependence on God: "Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah." Fasting in times of crisis serves as a declaration of trust in God's providence and a humble admission of our need for His intervention.

• Daniel's Fast: Seeking Wisdom and Understanding - In Daniel 10:2-3, Daniel describes his commitment to fasting: "At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips, and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over."

• Prayer: A Soulful Conversation with GOD - Accompanying fasting is prayer, exemplified in Nehemiah 1:4. Prayer is our soulful dialogue with the Divine, expressing repentance, gratitude, and seeking guidance. It is the vehicle for authentic and sincere communication with our Creator.

• Fasting Connection to Yom Kippur: A Day of Spiritual Renewal - Yom Kippur, a day of fasting observed on the 10th day of the 7th month as described multiple times in the torrah. (Leviticus 16:29-31,

• Implementing Prayer and Fasting in Our Lives

1. Intentional Reflection: Begin by purposefully reflecting on your actions, acknowledging areas for growth, and recognizing the need for spiritual improvement. Give it all to God.

2. Purposeful Fasting: Let your fast be intentional, deepening your connection with our Father and heightening your spiritual awareness. Fasting allows your mind to gain control over your body.

3. Heartfelt Prayer: Engage in prayer with an open heart, recalling Psalm 145:18, "The Lord is near to all who call on him in truth." Once you have given everything to God, and put all your cares and challenges in his hands, and you have gained control over your mind by neglecting the wants of the body, we can then focus our attention on prayer. Prayer to our Father and Creator of all things, Gratitude for all that we have, Gratitude for God's Mercy on our sinful lives, Gratitude for the completion of God's Will. Prayer for Guidance to stay in the Will of God.

4. Repentance and Forgiveness: Embrace the essence of fasting by seeking forgiveness, acknowledging mistakes, and extending forgiveness to others. Do not look for a sign of change. Do not look for a sign of repentance or forgiveness. Go and Embrace the message that God has laid on your heart to complete, and your prayers in fasting will be heard and God's Will will be done.

5. Gratitude in Prayer: Express gratitude for the blessings in your life, fostering a humble and thankful heart, as encouraged by Psalm 106:1. "Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever." Remeber that God is perfect and good. Remember that God is justice and our judge. Give God thanks for the good in your life. Give god thanks for his endless mercy on our lives as we are sinners and do not deserve God's grace and forgiveness let alone his blessings.

May you find prayer and fasting to be a source of direction in times of uncertainty. Whether you plan to pray and fast for one day or more, I pray that you find the lesson that God has for you. I pray that you will be able to resist the wants of the flesh so that you may focus on the needs of the soul. I pray that God bless your journey.

Amen,