Sermon Central
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Facts About Fasting
Contributed by Dr. Larry Petton on Jan 31, 2022 (message contributor)
BASIC REMINDERS --- to those who are fasting or considering a fast:
(1) This is not about FOOD. It is about spending more time alone with God. It is about showing Him that there are no other gods before him. He is Lord of all areas of our life.
(2) Do not become PROUD and brag to others about how much more spiritual you are. Jesus warned us about this very thing (Matthew 6:5 – “Do not be like the Pharisees…”).
(3) Do not become JUDGMENTAL toward those who do not feel led. Fasting is an individual matter between God and each of His children.
(4) Do not become LEGALISTIC toward yourself if you fail in fasting. This does not determine your salvation. Show grace to yourself when you don’t reach the goal. God does. Memorize Romans 8:1.
(5) Do not become WEARY in well doing. If your eating patterns have just changed dramatically, you will see many changes in your body. Stay with the process and do not become discouraged. Remember to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
(6) Do not be surprised when you encounter greater SPIRITUAL WARFARE. Satan knows the Bible better than us and understands the power that Jesus gave to His disciples through prayer and fasting. Expect a deeper battle….look forward to a greater victory!
PURPOSE IN FASTING
(1) NEGATIVELY – abstaining from food or abstaining from certain foods like Daniel did (Daniel 1).
(2) POSITIVELY – spending more time alone with God in the Word and in prayer. If you only give up food but you don’t spend time with God, you haven’t truly fasted. Get You Version on your cell phone and spend a lunch time in the Word with the Lord. Make a prayer diary and start writing your requests to God and also record the answer when it comes!
FASTING SHOULD HAVE A TARGET. Daniel certainly had a purpose (see Daniel 1:8). We are seeking God for national revival and revival in our church and family. You may also use this time to seek God for restoration in your marriage, direction for your career, victory over addictions, healing for your body or for encouragement after a broken relationship.
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