Matt 6:17-18 “But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”
If there’s ever been a time for fasting to the Lord, it’s now. The economy is on a downhill slope, government is on a socialist bent, laws protecting life and conscience are being tossed out the window, self-reliance is being undermined, the family is under siege, and the decadence of society doesn’t look like it’s going to abate any time soon.
Undoubtably, there are needs in your own life, family, our church and community. There are many variables to why and how we can fast. Reasons can include repentance, intercession, mourning, revelation, deliverance, physical healing, preparation for a major endeavor, seeking of guidance. It can be done on a national level, local level, congregational level and personal level.
Elmer Towns in his book, Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough said, “The discipline of fasting has fallen into such widespread disuse that people do not know its power.”
Arthur Wallis in his book, God’s Chosen Fast says, “…it is not a major biblical doctrine, a foundation stone of the faith, or a panacea for every spiritual ill…when exercised with a pure heart and right motive, fasting may provide us with a key to unlock doors where others have failed.”
When we fast and set aside that act to minister to God, honor and glorify Him, we place ourselves in the best possible position to hear and to discern not only the voice of God but the way of God. We turn our attention away from the cry of our appetite which can drown out the voice of God. Man fell in the garden because of a physical hunger that led to a spiritual condition.
We live in a nation of great abundance and comfort. This has the potential to dull our commitment to seek the Lord with all of our hearts. Our appetites can demand our attention and lead us to put off things God wants us to do. We have to be willing to say “no” to our appetites so we can be more sensitive to God’s leading and more fervent in our prayers.
Will you join me this month in a time of prayer and fasting for our families, region and nation? Together let’s seek the wisdom and the intervention of God for impact and breakthrough.
Chuck Pelham
Sources:
Michael Miller, 2009 article in Samaritan Ministries International
Elmer Towns, Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough
Arthur Wallis, God’s Chosen Fast
Ray King, article in Samaritan Ministries International
