What are your deep longings for 2012 — things you want God to do in your life, your family, and church? It is not enough to just long for things, it is time to DO something about it.
There is no better way to begin the year than with a Biblical fast. Just as beginning our day with prayer sets the course for the rest of the day and affects anything that might happen, so beginning the year with a fast affects our inner relationship with God and sets the course for the rest of the year.
Giving God the First
We give God the first of our day, the first of our week and the first of our income. Why not the first of the year? “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Mt. 6:33).
When we give God the first of our year in prayer and fasting… He gives to us all year long. During April, May, June… and even into December, we receive blessings that wouldn’t be ours if we hadn’t dedicated the first to God in January with a fast.
The Reward
The theme of Matthew chapter 6 is three main Christian duties: giving, praying and fasting.
Most Christians would accept without question that it’s our responsibility to give and pray. But it is equally our responsibility to fast. And just as God promised to reward those who give and pray, He has guaranteed a reward to those who fast!
”When you fast… your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:17-18).
The Invitation
I would like to personally invite you to join me to experience REAWAKEN 21 – a 21-day fast January 9 through January 29. Beginning and maintaining a fast is much easier when we join with others and fast with friends.
Next Steps:
- Prayerfully determine the type and length of fast to which you will commit.
- Prayerfully determine your objective.
(Why will you be fasting? For spiritual renewal, healing or financial provision, to regain your edge? For freedom from bondage and addiction?)
- Spend time daily in prayer, meditating in the Word and journaling what you sense God saying to you. (Join us M-Sat @noon in the sanctuary)
- Join me daily in this blog, and don't forget to check the fasting resources at thefathershouse.com
Be Blessed, I am praying for you!
PT
I appreciate your servitude by leading the Church by your example and not merely spoken words. Your actions in your personal life mean far more to me than spoken words. Character is who you are when you think no one is looking. You obviously have good character!
ReplyDeleteTammy Geiger
Last year I didn't last a week on this fast. Although a week has not passed, what I have received is the message that you have to be ready mind, body and soul. This year I am better prepared and excited for the journey.
ReplyDeleteLynne Wortham
PS for those who have yet to figure out how to post- do it anonymous.
Encouraged...and praying through our 'even nows' in faith. Thank you for blogging your Thursday teaching!!!
ReplyDelete