Keys To Effective Prayer And Fasting

KEYS TO EFFECTIVE PRAYER AND FASTING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 6:16-18

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 58:6-11, Joel 2:12-13, James 5:16, Acts 13:2-3, Mark 9:29

INTRODUCTION:

Prayer and fasting are two of the most powerful spiritual weapons God has given to His children. When combined, they have the potential to break yokes, release divine direction, provoke deliverance, and bring spiritual renewal. However, not all fasting is effective. Many engage in fasting and prayer as a religious ritual without experiencing tangible results, because they lack understanding of the keys that make them effective.

Effective prayer and fasting must be purposeful, guided by the Holy Spirit, and rooted in humility and obedience. Jesus did not only fast—He taught us how to do it the right way, warning against hypocrisy and public show. Isaiah 58 also exposes the kind of fast that pleases God and brings results.

In this sermon, we will explore biblical keys that unlock the full power and benefit of prayer and fasting. When these keys are applied, your spiritual life will rise to a new dimension, and the heavens will respond.

1. FAST WITH A RIGHT HEART ATTITUDE

Fasting is not just about denying the body food; it is about humbling oneself before God.

a) Sincerity and Humility (Joel 2:12–13)

Fasting must come from a broken and contrite heart, not as an outward show. God looks at the motive behind the fast.

b) No Hypocrisy (Matthew 6:16–18)

Jesus warned against fasting to be seen by men. True fasting is between you and God.

c) Seeking God, Not Manipulating Him (Isaiah 58:3–5)

The purpose of fasting is not to twist God's arm but to align our hearts with His will.

d) Cleansing the Heart (Psalm 24:3–4)

Effective fasting requires clean hands and a pure heart. Sin hinders answers to prayer.

Biblical Example: The people of Nineveh fasted with sincere repentance, and God withheld His judgment (Jonah 3:5–10).

2. ENGAGE THE WORD AND PRAYER DURING THE FAST

Fasting without the Word and prayer is a hunger strike. The spiritual disciplines must go hand in hand.

a) Feed on God’s Word (Jeremiah 15:16)

The Word strengthens your spirit and gives you direction during fasting.

b) Pray with Specificity (James 5:16)

Effective prayer is fervent and focused, not vague and lazy. Be intentional.

c) Mix the Word with Prayer (Acts 6:4)

The apostles gave themselves continually to prayer and the ministry of the Word.

d) Declare the Promises (Isaiah 55:11)

Use God's promises to reinforce your prayer points. His Word will not return void.

Biblical Example: Daniel fasted with prayer and the reading of prophetic scrolls, and he received divine insight (Daniel 9:2–3, 20–23).

3. SEEK GOD’S PURPOSE, NOT PERSONAL GAIN

Fasting that is self-centred is ineffective. God honours fasts that pursue His kingdom and His righteousness.

a) Kingdom Focus (Matthew 6:33)

Make God's agenda your priority, not just your needs or wants.

b) Intercede for Others (Isaiah 58:6–7)

Fasting should include breaking yokes, feeding the hungry, and helping the afflicted.

c) Ask for God's Will (Matthew 26:39)

Even Jesus prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” Surrender is key.

d) Be Aligned with Divine Purpose (Acts 13:2–3)

When the early church fasted, it was for the purpose of discovering God's plan.

Biblical Example: Anna fasted not for personal gain but to intercede for the coming of the Messiah (Luke 2:36–38).

4. WALK IN OBEDIENCE AFTER THE FAST

The effectiveness of a fast is also measured by the lifestyle that follows it.

a) Live What You Prayed (Isaiah 58:8–9)

Fasting must lead to transformation. If your life remains unchanged, it was religious activity.

b) Stay in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25)

Continue walking in the Spirit to maintain what was received during the fast.

c) Be Sensitive to Divine Promptings (Romans 8:14)

God will speak during and after your fast. Be ready to obey instructions.

d) Maintain Spiritual Discipline (1 Corinthians 9:27)

Keep up the momentum with a consistent prayer and Word life after the fast.

Biblical Example: Jesus came out of fasting in the power of the Spirit and immediately began fulfilling His ministry (Luke 4:1–14).

CONCLUSION:

Prayer and fasting are not formulas—they are spiritual disciplines that require faith, purpose, and sincerity. When done rightly, they release divine encounters, victories, and breakthroughs. God is not moved by hunger; He is moved by humility, faith, and obedience.

Apply these keys, and you will see the results of effective fasting in your life. Your spirit will be sharpened, your authority enhanced, and your destiny accelerated. Prayer and fasting, when done God's way, will produce God-sized results.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, give me grace to fast and pray according to Your will.

2. Father, purify my heart and align my motives as I seek You.

3. Let my fast break every yoke and unlock divine breakthroughs.