FASTING // First Wednesday

What is Fasting?

Fasting is not eating for a period of time for the sake of nourishment

How long do we fast?

There is no

 “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Matthew 6:16-18 (NLT)

When do we fast?

Fasting is a & a

Embodied Spirituality: our bodies are central to our faith, actions taken within this body are a reflection of our spirits

3 Ways We Struggle with the Body:

1. to be conquered
2. to be glorified
3. to be filled

The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, ‘He’s a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!’  But wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it.” Luke 7:34-35 (NLT)

Is the way that you relate to food a pathway to indulgence, to perfection, to comfort, or to God’s love, power, & purpose?

Why do we fast?

1. To offer our bodies as

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Romans 12:1 (NLT)

2. To grow in

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. Matthew 16:24 (NLT)

3. To amplify our

Among the prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch of Syria were Barnabas, Simeon (called “the black man”), Lucius (from Cyrene), Manaen (the childhood companion of King Herod Antipas), and Saul. One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.”  So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. Acts 13:1-3 (NLT)

4. To stand with the

What is my plan this Sunday when 21 Days of Prayer & Fasting starts?