11.13.07
“FAST AND PRAY!”
II Chronicles 20:2-3
“Then some came and told Jehoshaphat, saying, “A great multitude is coming against you from beyond the sea, from Syria; and they are in Hazazon Tamar” (which is En Gedi). And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah.”
What is the purpose of prayer and fasting? First and foremost, it is urged upon us by God’s Holy Word, the Bible. We see that in the times where God’s people humbled themselves, fasted and prayed—miracles were the result.
This passage in II Chronicles is only one of the many instances in Scripture where fasting and prayer are used in the time of need and God’s blessing. For instance, Esther called for fasting and prayer before she appeared before the king to plead for her people. The Jews were slated for death by the wicked Haman, and only God’s divine intervention could save them.
In the book of Daniel we are told that he fasted on a regular basis to insure God’s power and protection. Jesus told His disciples that real power was possible only through prayer and fasting.
I have recently made a commitment to fast each Thursday. Please believe me when I say that this is not for the purpose of acting holier than thou. I even hesitate mentioning it, but felt inclined to write about it as a possible encouragement to others who may also desire to get alone with God during the time usually spent at the table.
I will be using this time to pray for God to demonstrate His power and to bring about healing in our sin sick world. Not necessarily physical healing, but the healing of marriages, conflicts in families and finances. Violence and strife have become so prevalent that I want to plead for the sins of this generation.
Not only is fasting given as an example in Scripture, but fasting is a means of reminding us to pray. Just think about it for a moment. If you have a large meal and then begin to pray, the likelihood is that you will be more inclined to doze off than to pray through. When fasting, every growl of the stomach is a reminder to pray!
As Christians we are often smug in our spirituality, yet the truth is that we are often undisciplined in our prayer life. Muslims have their month of fasting (Ramadan), in which they fast during the daylight hours during the entire period. Do we as Christian believers have anywhere near that discipline? I will leave it to you to answer.
I would like to challenge each of us to consider setting aside a regular time in which we will fast and be open before the Lord. I know it will bring strength and power for God to do abundantly more than we can even ask or think!
Blessings dear hearts. Walk with God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing.
- - - Pastor Cecil