A Fasted Life

But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9:27

As a minister of the gospel, I take this verse to heart. I never want my actions to disqualify my testimony or my witness to God. Now, am I perfect? Absolutely not! I am a human being who gets it wrong more times than I would like to admit. But that doesn’t mean that I give up when I mess up. No, I pick myself up and get back on track.

I also believe that disciplining your body carries over to so many other areas. Teri Savelle Foy says, “how you do anything, is how you do everything.” What does that mean? Well, say, for example, you are late all the time. If you’re constantly late, it probably means you’re not disciplined to get going when you need to. Disciplining yourself in the little things will make an impact on the big things.

At times it’s a good idea to do a fast. There are times I do a sugar fast or fast one meal of the day. I do it to remind my body that I (my spirit) am in control, not my body. In this way, you will live a fasted life – one that is in control of your body and not the other way around.

Here is a confession I like to say concerning my self-discipline:

“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. (Rom 12:1-2) 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 the 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.”

Dear Lord, I pray for strength as I purpose to discipline my body and live a fasted life. Amen.