What is fasting?

• The abstaining from eating and/or drinking for spiritual purposes.
• A basic spiritual practice found throughout the Bible.

Matthew 6:16-18 - “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.  17But when you fast, comb your hairand wash your face.  18Then 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.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in his book The Cost Of Discipleship, said, " Jesus takes it for granted that His disciples will observe the pious custom of fasting. Strict exercise of self-control is an essential feature in the Christian Life. Such customs have only one purpose - to make the disciples more ready and cheerful to accomplish those things which God would have [them do]."

Why are we fasting?

7 reasons to fast

1. To repent - The people of Ninevah repented, prayed, and fasted.
2. To show grief - Job sat in ashes after his life was destroyed.
3. To ask God to move - Nehemiah prayed and fasted on behalf of Jerusalem.
4. To seek God's wisdom - Paul and Barnabas appointing elders in the churches they planted. Acts 14:23.
5. To prepare for ministry - Jesus fasted and prayed for 40 days in the wilderness.
6. To gain victory - Israelites lost 40,000 men to the Benjamites. The fasted and prayed and God gave them victory. Judges 20:26
7. To worship God - The prophetess Anna was know for regularly fasting and praying in temple as an act of worship.

How are we fasting?

• Today, you will be sent a packet via text message explaining in more detail what a fast is and how to prepare for it.
• You can download that packet on our website here.
• Your homework this week is to study that packet and ask God how he would have you fast.
• Do what you need to do to prepare for what God has asked you to do.
• Starting March 14th, the sanctuary will be open from 11:00 - 1:00 for silent personal prayer and Bible study.
• The sanctuary will be open every day from 11:00 - 1:00 March 14th through April 3rd.
• You will be given a prayer guide and journal page each day.
• I (Elliott) am calling on our entire church family to fast and pray with me for 21 days starting March 14th as we follow God's direction and rebuild His church!