Why Should I Fast?

• Jesus instructed us to fast (Matt. 6:17-18)

• Overcome satanic bondages (Matt. 17:21)

• Overcome temptation (Matt. 4:1-2)

• Humble oneself (Psalms 35:13)

• Ask for divine intervention (Esther 4:16)

• Plea for divine help (Neh. 1:4-5)

• For personal strength against the enemy (Psalm 28:7-8)

• Turn your heart to God (Joel 2:12)

 

What Type of Fast Should I Choose?

During the month of January, we are participating in a corporate church fast.  You are asked to fast from something per week. For example, you can give up meat or social media, or something that is meaningful to you.   It can be the same thing each week or different items per week.  The key to any fast is for you to give up something that is significant and spend more time communicating with God.

 

 

What is the Fasting Schedule?

Week 1 (Jan 3rd – Jan 7th) - Confession/Repentance—Pure Heart (Matt 5:8)

 

Week 2 (Jan 8th- 14th) - Spiritual Walk to Be Strengthen to Obey Christ (2 Cor 10:5)

 

Week 3 (Jan 15th- 22nd) - Soul/Health/Financial Empowerment Strategies (3 John 1:2)

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Week 4 (Jan 22nd - 28th) - Abide in Christ & His Word (John 15:7-9; Psalms 91)

 

Sunday, January 29th at 10 am - Special Anointing Worship Service

 

Corporate Fasting Dates:

Wednesdays - January 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25th

As a church body, we are fasting 6 am – 6 pm from meats and sweets, each Wednesday in January.

 

How Do I Start a Fast?

Matthew 6:16-18 (KJV) states “Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their face, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face that thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward

thee openly.”

 

• Fasting is a private act between you and God. Fasting is not something you broadcast to people.  When you start your fast, wash your face, anoint yourself with oil, and dedicate your day to the Lord.  Fasting takes discipline and self-control. No food or drink compares to our reward, the presence of God.

 

How Do I Pray During a Fast?

Prayer and fasting fit together like a hand & glove.  Both serve a distinct purpose, but when put together a powerful combination emerges. Find a quite place to pray daily.  Our God knows what we need before you ask (Matt 6:8); we must humble ourselves and pray. When you pray:

• Pray from your heart. (1 Samuel 16:7)

• Pray the Word.  One of the most powerful tools we can use as a believer is to pray the scriptures.  Praying the Word out loud is a key to spiritual transformation. (Psalms 119:105)

• Refer to Matthew 6:9-13 (Model Prayer)

 

What Should I Expect When I Fast?

• Enemy to show up (Matt. 4:1-4)

• Lose bonds of wickedness (Isaiah 58:6)

• God to answer prayer (Ezra 8:23)

• Supernatural grace (2 Cor 9:8)

• A release of ministry (Acts 13:3)

• Victory over the enemy (Esther 7:10)

• Release of heavy burdens and for yokes to be broken (Isa.58:6, 8)

 

What Else Should I Do During the Fast?

1. Enjoy your time with Jesus.  If you mess up, don’t beat yourself up.  The key is to spend more quality time with God, not what you eat. 

2. Attend church gatherings such as prayer meetings, Bible Study, Sunday School or Sunday morning worship services.  These services are great sources of encouragement during this consecration period.

3. Limit activities that could take away your time with God such as TV, social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) Let the Holy Spirit be your guide.

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