Fast and Pray
Photo by Patrick Fore
Last week, I wrote about the need for a mental and physical “spring-cleaning.” You can read that blog here if you missed it. The first part of spring cleaning that must take place is decluttering. You know, those items around your house that you are keeping for some reason that you probably forgot about. When a room is decluttered, you are able to see other items more clearly as well as use the space for its intended purpose.
The same is true for your body and soul. For you to operate and function how you were intended and created to function, you may need to declutter some things. There might be habits that you need to get rid of all together, while others you may need to give up for a time. The latter is a form of fasting, and it has tremendous benefits to your life - spirit, soul, and body. If you would like to learn more about the spiritual benefits of fasting, these two articles are really good and I can’t say it any better.
There are many benefits to fasting as well as several different types of fasting. Again, I will point you to the above articles for a list of the benefits as well as the types of fasting. This is when having a conversation with the Holy Spirit will help guide you with what is best for you and what you are praying for.
Like I said in my last post, you need know your why. Fasting is a powerful spiritual exercise, and is much needed in our world right now. It is important for Christians to come together in prayer for our cities, states, countries, and those in authority. Ephesians 6:12 says, “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” It goes on to say how we are to put on the armor of God and PRAY. These are the areas I will be focusing my prayers:
For our leaders and those in positions of authority. Praying for wisdom in decisions so that love and truth will have the final say. Also, praying for the election on Tuesday, June 2nd.
An end to Covid-19 including every scheme of the devil attached to it, and life to return to normal.
Taking a stand against the evil spirits of division, strife, and offense that are wrecking havoc in our nation, cities, and churches.
Prodigals to come home and for those who have put off making a decision to follow Christ, to accept Him with all their heart.
Protection around our families, churches, and businesses.
Fasting for your own personal benefit is important as well. What are some dreams and desires that you have had that need to get stirred up again? Are there areas in your life that you feel you need to get control over - such as an addiction to a substance, social media, or tv - or even laziness. Maybe there is something in your lifestyle that doesn’t glorify God that you know you need to change, but haven’t had the will to do it. Some of the areas that I am fasting and praying for in my own life are:
The fulfillment of my God-given assignments and clarity in what specific things I need to do now.
Making a commitment to a healthy life-style.
My own family - my husband, children, and future spouses and grandchildren.
My church family.
Healing - little things in my body that I have put up with for too long.
Again, there are various ways to fast. Therefore, you need to seek God for what is best for you. I felt led yesterday to do a day-long fast. This was not in my plans to do, but I felt impressed that it was what God wanted me to do. At our church, we had a powerful time of prayer and praise yesterday evening and covered the topics listed above.
The following days and weeks, I plan to cut out sugar and dairy (2 things that I know are not good for me which clutter my mind and gut). I like a whole-30 type diet for this. Again, I listen to my body and the Holy Spirit for what is best for me. Therefore, I modify it for what works best. Everyone is different, therefore fasting and diets are not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing.
Other things that I am fasting during this time are things that clutter my time and mind. In your own life, make a list of activities or routines that prevent you from living the life you truly desire. Instead of sitting in front of the tv, go for a walk or read a book that will help develop you better. Maybe you need to designate a day or more to stay off of social media. Again, the most important thing is to SEEK GOD! He knows you best and what will benefit you the most.
Okay, so I talked about your food and habits, but what about your thoughts? I’m glad you asked! There is a lot of junk stored in that brain of yours - stinkin’ thinkin’ that needs to be dealt with. I often do Dr. Caroline Leaf’s 21-day Brain Detox program as well. It does cost, but it is well worth it! (She even has an app so you can have the program on your phone.) You would be surprised how much junk you are carrying around in your “attic.” You may not even be aware of how toxic thinking is effecting your life. Again, I HIGHLY recommend this. By the way, I am not getting anything in return for promoting these things. They are just tools that have helped me that I am passing along to you.
In addition to fasting/detoxing, there are also habits that you need to add to your life. I know this is a no-brainer, and I drill this all the time, but start your day with prayer and reading your Bible. Matthew 6:33 teaches us to seek Him FIRST, then the rest of what we want to focus on will be added to us.
Your Challenge for this Week:
Commit to pray for the first list above.
Make a personal list of changes or clarity that you want to see in your own life.
Ask God what type of fast you should do and commit to do it this week. Again, this needs to be done prayerfully.
Keep a journal of what you feel God speaking to you throughout your fast.
Speak the following declarations over your life daily:
The Armor of God
I take the whole armor of God to withstand today. I stand having girded my waist with truth, having pure on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod my feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, I take the shield of faith with which I quench all the fiery darts of the enemy. I put on the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. I pray always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit - being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication, that I may open my mouth boldly to speak as I out to speak!
Morning Declaration
Father, I present my body to You as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to You, for this is my reasonable service - my divine worship for You. I command my body to submit to my spirit. Father, according to Hebrews 12:1-2, I lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily entangles me so that I may run with patience the race that is set before me, looking unto Jesus, who is there Author and Finisher of my faith.
In Jesus name, I am taking command of my body. Body, mind, you can’t tell me what to do or think. Spirit man, you’re in charge. Body and mind, you submit to the spirit.
Let’s believe together for breakthroughs to take place in our families, churches, schools, cities, states, countries, and world!
