Your assignment yesterday was to talk to God about fasting and seek guidance from him about what he wants you to do and learn this week. Be sure to be attentive to his answer.
Before proposing some activities for today, here is a little more theory on fasting.
What might be some reasons for you to fast?
- David used the principle of fasting in a time of great sorrow, when he needed comfort and understanding from God (1 Samuel 31:11-13, 1 Samuel 1:17-27).
- David also used fasting in a time of great illness when with all his heart he sought forgiveness for his sins. He asked God to hear and answer his prayer and heal his child (2 Samuel 12:13-22). David explained the whole principle for fasting on this occasion in verse 22: I fasted and wept while the child was alive, for I said, Perhaps the Lord will be gracious to me and let the child live.
- Fasting can be invaluable in a time of serious trouble, when we desperately need Gods help. Jehoshaphat and the nation of Judah used fasting under these circumstances as recorded in (2 Chronicles 20:3-4) Jehoshaphat was terrified by this news and begged the Lord for guidance. He also ordered everyone in Judah to begin fasting. So people from all the towns of Judah came to Jerusalem to seek the Lord’s help.
- Jesus made use of fasting to prepare for a time of testing (Matt 4:1-2).
- Fasting can be used to help in making a major decision. The early church fasted to decide on ordinations, and assigned responsibilities (Acts 13:1-3)
Start thinking and praying about a food fast on Thursday. Let’s see how many of us can do this together. If medical conditions or other circumstances prevent you we understand and more importantly God understands.
For today, consider a television fast for at least the rest of the day. Please use the “extra time” for Bible study and prayer.
Please remember to share any thoughts you have by commenting on the blog.