AVL Family 7-Day Fast
January 19 @ 7:00 pm - January 26 @ 7:00pm
A corporate fast is a powerful way to unite hearts, focus on God, and seek His will together as a community. By laying aside physical comforts, we demonstrate total dependence on Him and open the door for spiritual breakthroughs. Fasting together amplifies our prayers, deepens our collective intimacy with God, and positions us to hear His voice more clearly. As we fast, we align our church with God's purposes, inviting His blessing, guidance, and renewal in ways that transform both individuals and the whole body.
During the fast, we have created a seven-day devotional designed to guide you through fasting, prayer, and reading Scripture. Each day focuses on a specific aspect of living a holy life—seeking God's presence, waiting on Him, pressing into breakthrough, and celebrating renewal. With key Bible verses, prayers, and daily tips to encourage you through your fast, this devotional invites you to experience spiritual transformation and a deeper connection with the Lord.
Fasting reveals what rules your heart—what you deny yourself reflects what you depend on. - Sergio Fesiuk
A 7-Day
DEVOTIONAL
Day 1: Holy God
Psalm 99:5 "Exalt the Lord our God and worship at His footstool; He is holy!"
Isaiah 6:3 The seraphim cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!”
Romans 3:23-24 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.”
Psalm 24:3-4: "Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to deceit and has not sworn deceitfully."
Reflection: As you begin your fast, focus on God’s holiness. Worship Him for who He is—perfect, righteous, and sovereign. In Isaiah 6:1-8, Isaiah sees the Lord seated on His throne, high and lifted up. This vision of God’s holiness brings Isaiah to his knees in repentance. Fasting begins with seeing God rightly, which leads to humbling ourselves before Him. God's holiness also reminds us of our need for grace. When we fast, we intentionally enter into God’s presence to experience His transformative grace and power. The first step to seeking God’s presence is acknowledging His holiness and our unworthiness apart from His grace.
“A vision of God’s holiness is the beginning of spiritual awakening.” — A.W. Tozer
Application: Today, dedicate your fast to worship and repentance. Ask God to cleanse your hands, purify your heart, and align your soul with His holiness. Write down areas in your life where God is calling you to greater obedience.
Prayer: Holy God, I come before You in awe of Your holiness. You are perfect in all Your ways. Cleanse my heart, renew my mind, and transform me through this fast. Let me worship You in spirit and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Setting the Foundation
Begin with intentional prayer and clearly define your purpose for fasting. Write down your goals—whether they’re spiritual, relational, or personal breakthroughs—and revisit them throughout the week.
Encouragement: Starting is the hardest part, but remember that fasting is an act of worship. God sees your sacrifice and will honor your desire to draw closer to Him; "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
Isaiah 6:3 The seraphim cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!”
Romans 3:23-24 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.”
Psalm 24:3-4: "Who may ascend the hill of the Lord? And who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to deceit and has not sworn deceitfully."
Reflection: As you begin your fast, focus on God’s holiness. Worship Him for who He is—perfect, righteous, and sovereign. In Isaiah 6:1-8, Isaiah sees the Lord seated on His throne, high and lifted up. This vision of God’s holiness brings Isaiah to his knees in repentance. Fasting begins with seeing God rightly, which leads to humbling ourselves before Him. God's holiness also reminds us of our need for grace. When we fast, we intentionally enter into God’s presence to experience His transformative grace and power. The first step to seeking God’s presence is acknowledging His holiness and our unworthiness apart from His grace.
“A vision of God’s holiness is the beginning of spiritual awakening.” — A.W. Tozer
Application: Today, dedicate your fast to worship and repentance. Ask God to cleanse your hands, purify your heart, and align your soul with His holiness. Write down areas in your life where God is calling you to greater obedience.
Prayer: Holy God, I come before You in awe of Your holiness. You are perfect in all Your ways. Cleanse my heart, renew my mind, and transform me through this fast. Let me worship You in spirit and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Setting the Foundation
Begin with intentional prayer and clearly define your purpose for fasting. Write down your goals—whether they’re spiritual, relational, or personal breakthroughs—and revisit them throughout the week.
Encouragement: Starting is the hardest part, but remember that fasting is an act of worship. God sees your sacrifice and will honor your desire to draw closer to Him; "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
Day 2: Holy Ground
Exodus 3:5 "Do not come closer,” He said. “Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy ground."
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.
Psalm 27:4 "One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to meditate in His temple.”
Hebrews 12:28-29 "Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let’s show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire."
Reflection: God’s presence transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. When Moses encountered the burning bush, he was instructed to remove his sandals as a sign of reverence and acknowledgment of God’s holiness. Similarly, fasting reminds us that our lives, bodies, and spaces are temples of the Holy Spirit. We read that King David approached God with reverence. Through fasting, we create holy ground in our hearts and minds, where God’s beauty can be revealed. Every encounter with God transforms common ground into holy ground.
“God does not dwell in buildings but in the hearts of men who revere Him.” — Augustine
Application: Dedicate a specific place in your home for prayer during this fast. Begin each prayer by acknowledging God’s holiness. Reflect on what it means to approach God with reverence and awe.
Prayer: Lord, as I stand in Your presence, I surrender all that I am to You. Sanctify my heart, my home, and this fast. May every step I take be on holy ground. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Overcoming Initial Discomfort
Stay hydrated and take time to rest, as your body is adjusting to the fast. If you feel hunger pangs or fatigue, redirect your focus through worship or meditating on scripture, like Psalm 63:1: "My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You."
Encouragement: The second day can feel the hardest as your body craves its normal routines, but this is the moment to lean on God’s strength. "The Lord is your strength and shield; trust in Him, and you will not be shaken" Psalm 28:7.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.
Psalm 27:4 "One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to meditate in His temple.”
Hebrews 12:28-29 "Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let’s show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe; for our God is a consuming fire."
Reflection: God’s presence transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. When Moses encountered the burning bush, he was instructed to remove his sandals as a sign of reverence and acknowledgment of God’s holiness. Similarly, fasting reminds us that our lives, bodies, and spaces are temples of the Holy Spirit. We read that King David approached God with reverence. Through fasting, we create holy ground in our hearts and minds, where God’s beauty can be revealed. Every encounter with God transforms common ground into holy ground.
“God does not dwell in buildings but in the hearts of men who revere Him.” — Augustine
Application: Dedicate a specific place in your home for prayer during this fast. Begin each prayer by acknowledging God’s holiness. Reflect on what it means to approach God with reverence and awe.
Prayer: Lord, as I stand in Your presence, I surrender all that I am to You. Sanctify my heart, my home, and this fast. May every step I take be on holy ground. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Overcoming Initial Discomfort
Stay hydrated and take time to rest, as your body is adjusting to the fast. If you feel hunger pangs or fatigue, redirect your focus through worship or meditating on scripture, like Psalm 63:1: "My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You."
Encouragement: The second day can feel the hardest as your body craves its normal routines, but this is the moment to lean on God’s strength. "The Lord is your strength and shield; trust in Him, and you will not be shaken" Psalm 28:7.
Day 3: Holy Sacrifice
Romans 12:1 "I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."
Luke 9:23 “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”
Hebrews 10:10 By this will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all
Philippians 3:7-8 "But whatever things were gain to me, these things I have counted as loss because of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.".
Reflection: Fasting is a physical act of sacrifice that mirrors the spiritual act of offering ourselves fully to God. As your body adjusts to fasting, remember that this discipline is an act of worship. Sacrifice is the foundation of holy devotion. In Leviticus, sacrifices were required to purify and consecrate God’s people. Today, Christ has become our ultimate sacrifice and we respond by offering ourselves wholly to Him. Sacrifice is the currency of holy devotion.
“True worship costs us something. It demands all that we are and all that we have.” — Leonard Ravenhill
Application: Write down areas of your life where God is asking for greater surrender.
Prayer: Father, I present myself to You as a living sacrifice. Teach me to deny myself and follow You wholeheartedly. Purify my heart and renew my mind as I wait on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Settling into the Rhythm
Incorporate light activity like a walk or stretching to help with focus and energy. Use this time to pray or reflect on scriptures like Isaiah 26:3: "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You."
Encouragement: By now, you’re starting to find a rhythm in fasting. Take heart—you’ve made it through the hardest adjustment, and God is with you, sustaining you each step of the way; "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
Luke 9:23 “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”
Hebrews 10:10 By this will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all
Philippians 3:7-8 "But whatever things were gain to me, these things I have counted as loss because of Christ. More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.".
Reflection: Fasting is a physical act of sacrifice that mirrors the spiritual act of offering ourselves fully to God. As your body adjusts to fasting, remember that this discipline is an act of worship. Sacrifice is the foundation of holy devotion. In Leviticus, sacrifices were required to purify and consecrate God’s people. Today, Christ has become our ultimate sacrifice and we respond by offering ourselves wholly to Him. Sacrifice is the currency of holy devotion.
“True worship costs us something. It demands all that we are and all that we have.” — Leonard Ravenhill
Application: Write down areas of your life where God is asking for greater surrender.
Prayer: Father, I present myself to You as a living sacrifice. Teach me to deny myself and follow You wholeheartedly. Purify my heart and renew my mind as I wait on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Settling into the Rhythm
Incorporate light activity like a walk or stretching to help with focus and energy. Use this time to pray or reflect on scriptures like Isaiah 26:3: "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You."
Encouragement: By now, you’re starting to find a rhythm in fasting. Take heart—you’ve made it through the hardest adjustment, and God is with you, sustaining you each step of the way; "I can do all things through Him who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
Day 4: Holy Devotion
Jeremiah 29:13 "You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart."
Isaiah 40:31 “Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.”
Matthew 22:37 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.”
Psalm 42:1-2 "As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for You, God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; when shall I come and appear before God?"
Reflection: Fasting is an act of holy devotion that draws us closer to God. As your body adjusts, your spirit becomes more sensitive to His presence. In Scripture, waiting on God is a recurring theme that requires patience and trust. Holy devotion involves seeking God with our whole heart, mind, and soul. Fasting strips away distractions and focuses our hearts on this divine pursuit. Devotion requires discipline, and discipline births delight in God.
“God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.” — John Piper
Application: Commit your day to seeking God wholeheartedly. Ask the Holy Spirit to deepen your hunger for His presence. Reflect on areas where distractions or idols have taken priority over God.
Prayer: Lord, I wait on You with expectation. Teach me to love You with all my heart, soul, and mind. Help me to focus my devotion entirely on You. Draw me closer as I seek Your face. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Battling Mental Fatigue
Refocus your thoughts by journaling or listing the things you’re grateful for. Reflect on all the ways God has been faithful in your life, and let thanksgiving refresh your spirit.
Encouragement: When mental fatigue sets in, know that God is renewing your strength inwardly, even if you don’t feel it yet. "Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day" 2 Corinthians 4:16
Isaiah 40:31 “Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.”
Matthew 22:37 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.”
Psalm 42:1-2 "As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for You, God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God; when shall I come and appear before God?"
Reflection: Fasting is an act of holy devotion that draws us closer to God. As your body adjusts, your spirit becomes more sensitive to His presence. In Scripture, waiting on God is a recurring theme that requires patience and trust. Holy devotion involves seeking God with our whole heart, mind, and soul. Fasting strips away distractions and focuses our hearts on this divine pursuit. Devotion requires discipline, and discipline births delight in God.
“God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.” — John Piper
Application: Commit your day to seeking God wholeheartedly. Ask the Holy Spirit to deepen your hunger for His presence. Reflect on areas where distractions or idols have taken priority over God.
Prayer: Lord, I wait on You with expectation. Teach me to love You with all my heart, soul, and mind. Help me to focus my devotion entirely on You. Draw me closer as I seek Your face. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Battling Mental Fatigue
Refocus your thoughts by journaling or listing the things you’re grateful for. Reflect on all the ways God has been faithful in your life, and let thanksgiving refresh your spirit.
Encouragement: When mental fatigue sets in, know that God is renewing your strength inwardly, even if you don’t feel it yet. "Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day" 2 Corinthians 4:16
Day 5: Holy Obedience
John 14:15 "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments."
Matthew 4:1-2 "Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after He had fasted for forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry."
Matthew 4:4 “It is written, ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes out of the mouth of God.’”
James 1:22 "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves."
Reflection: By this point in your fast, spiritual resistance may arise, but remember that fasting is not just about abstaining from food—it’s about walking in obedience. Holy obedience requires trusting God even when it’s difficult. When Satan tempted Him, Jesus responded with Scripture. Obedience to God’s Word is the key to overcoming spiritual resistance and experiencing breakthrough. Breakthrough follows obedience, and obedience requires trust.
“Obedience is the highest expression of faith.” — Charles Spurgeon
Application: Ask God to reveal areas where you need to walk in greater obedience. Take practical steps today to align your actions with His Word, whether it’s forgiving someone, sharing the gospel, or serving others.
Prayer: Lord, help me to walk in holy obedience. Strengthen me to trust You even when it’s hard. Thank You for the breakthroughs You have planned for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Experiencing Spiritual Clarity
Dedicate extra time to prayer and scripture today, as many people report experiencing heightened spiritual clarity around this time. Meditate on Psalm 34:8: "Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him."
Encouragement: You’re more than halfway through! God is drawing you closer to Him, opening your eyes to deeper truths. Keep pressing in—He’s working in ways you may not yet see; "If you look for Me wholeheartedly, you will find Me." Jeremiah 29:13 NLT
Matthew 4:1-2 "Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after He had fasted for forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry."
Matthew 4:4 “It is written, ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes out of the mouth of God.’”
James 1:22 "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves."
Reflection: By this point in your fast, spiritual resistance may arise, but remember that fasting is not just about abstaining from food—it’s about walking in obedience. Holy obedience requires trusting God even when it’s difficult. When Satan tempted Him, Jesus responded with Scripture. Obedience to God’s Word is the key to overcoming spiritual resistance and experiencing breakthrough. Breakthrough follows obedience, and obedience requires trust.
“Obedience is the highest expression of faith.” — Charles Spurgeon
Application: Ask God to reveal areas where you need to walk in greater obedience. Take practical steps today to align your actions with His Word, whether it’s forgiving someone, sharing the gospel, or serving others.
Prayer: Lord, help me to walk in holy obedience. Strengthen me to trust You even when it’s hard. Thank You for the breakthroughs You have planned for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Experiencing Spiritual Clarity
Dedicate extra time to prayer and scripture today, as many people report experiencing heightened spiritual clarity around this time. Meditate on Psalm 34:8: "Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him."
Encouragement: You’re more than halfway through! God is drawing you closer to Him, opening your eyes to deeper truths. Keep pressing in—He’s working in ways you may not yet see; "If you look for Me wholeheartedly, you will find Me." Jeremiah 29:13 NLT
Day 6: Holy Waiting
Psalm 46:10 "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth!"
Lamentations 3:25 “The Lord is good to those who await Him, to the person who seeks Him.”
Habakkuk 2:3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hurries toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it delays, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay long."
Reflection: Pressing into breakthrough often requires waiting on God’s timing. The Bible is filled with examples of those who waited on God: Abraham waited for the promise of Isaac, Joseph waited for deliverance from prison, and David waited to become king. Fasting teaches us to embrace holy waiting, trusting that God’s plans are perfect. This is a time to silence distractions and listen for His voice. Waiting on God is not passive; it’s an active surrender to His will.
“To wait on God is to trust Him with the unknown.” — Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Application: Spend time in stillness before God today. Write down any promises God has spoken to you and pray them back to Him.
Prayer: Lord, as I wait on You, teach me to trust in Your perfect timing. Help me to be still and know that You are God. Renew my faith and give me strength for the journey ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Preparing for the Breakthrough
Take a moment to revisit your fasting goals and pray specifically for the breakthroughs you’re seeking. Stay disciplined, as the finish line is near, and remember to rest as needed.
Encouragement: Your sacrifice is not in vain—God hears your prayers and is moving on your behalf. "So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up." Galatians 6:9
Lamentations 3:25 “The Lord is good to those who await Him, to the person who seeks Him.”
Habakkuk 2:3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hurries toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it delays, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay long."
Reflection: Pressing into breakthrough often requires waiting on God’s timing. The Bible is filled with examples of those who waited on God: Abraham waited for the promise of Isaac, Joseph waited for deliverance from prison, and David waited to become king. Fasting teaches us to embrace holy waiting, trusting that God’s plans are perfect. This is a time to silence distractions and listen for His voice. Waiting on God is not passive; it’s an active surrender to His will.
“To wait on God is to trust Him with the unknown.” — Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Application: Spend time in stillness before God today. Write down any promises God has spoken to you and pray them back to Him.
Prayer: Lord, as I wait on You, teach me to trust in Your perfect timing. Help me to be still and know that You are God. Renew my faith and give me strength for the journey ahead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Preparing for the Breakthrough
Take a moment to revisit your fasting goals and pray specifically for the breakthroughs you’re seeking. Stay disciplined, as the finish line is near, and remember to rest as needed.
Encouragement: Your sacrifice is not in vain—God hears your prayers and is moving on your behalf. "So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up." Galatians 6:9
Day 7: Holy Calling
Matthew 5:14 "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden."
Matthew 6:10 Jesus taught His disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them."
Philippians 1:6 "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus."
Reflection: As you complete your fast, celebrate God’s faithfulness and reflect on the holy calling He has placed on your life. Fasting aligns us with God’s will and empowers us to walk in our calling. This is a time to thank God for the breakthroughs He has brought and commit to living out His purposes with renewed passion. Celebration is the overflow of a life transformed by God’s presence.
“The glory of God is man fully alive.” — Irenaeus
Application: Reflect on the past seven days and write down the ways God has spoken to you or worked in your life. Commit to walking in your holy calling and sharing God’s love with others.
Prayer: Father, thank You for this journey of fasting and prayer. I celebrate Your goodness and faithfulness. Strengthen me to walk in the calling You have placed on my life. May my life glorify You in every way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Finishing Strong
As you prepare to break your fast, plan a light, nutritious meal to ease your body back into eating. Reflect on what God has taught you during this journey and offer Him thanks and praise.
Encouragement: You’ve finished the race! Celebrate the work God has done in your heart, knowing that this fast has drawn you closer to Him. "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy" Psalm 126:3
Matthew 6:10 Jesus taught His disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Ephesians 2:10 "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them."
Philippians 1:6 "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work among you will complete it by the day of Christ Jesus."
Reflection: As you complete your fast, celebrate God’s faithfulness and reflect on the holy calling He has placed on your life. Fasting aligns us with God’s will and empowers us to walk in our calling. This is a time to thank God for the breakthroughs He has brought and commit to living out His purposes with renewed passion. Celebration is the overflow of a life transformed by God’s presence.
“The glory of God is man fully alive.” — Irenaeus
Application: Reflect on the past seven days and write down the ways God has spoken to you or worked in your life. Commit to walking in your holy calling and sharing God’s love with others.
Prayer: Father, thank You for this journey of fasting and prayer. I celebrate Your goodness and faithfulness. Strengthen me to walk in the calling You have placed on my life. May my life glorify You in every way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Practical Tip: Finishing Strong
As you prepare to break your fast, plan a light, nutritious meal to ease your body back into eating. Reflect on what God has taught you during this journey and offer Him thanks and praise.
Encouragement: You’ve finished the race! Celebrate the work God has done in your heart, knowing that this fast has drawn you closer to Him. "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy" Psalm 126:3
TYPES OF FASTS
Indulgence Fast
An indulgence fast is where you disconnect from Media and Technology. Eliminate TV, Movies, Social Media, Smartphones, Tablets, Computers… Our minds are overwhelmed and need rest. Of course you can limit their usages due to work obligations.
Matthew 6:22-23 (NLT) "Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. If your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness."
Psalm 46:10 (NASB) "Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
Matthew 6:22-23 (NLT) "Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. If your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness."
Psalm 46:10 (NASB) "Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
Partial Fast
A partial fast involves refraining from specific foods, drinks, or meals, rather than complete abstinence from all food. Common examples include the Daniel Fast, skipping certain meals, or eliminating specific indulgences like sweets or caffeine to focus on spiritual growth and self-discipline.
Daniel 1:12-16 (NASB) "'Please put your servants to the test for ten days, and let us be given some vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then let our appearance be examined in your presence...'"
Daniel 10:2-3 (NLT) "When this vision came to me, I, Daniel, had been in mourning for three whole weeks. All that time I had eaten no rich food. No meat or wine crossed my lips, and I used no fragrant lotions until those three weeks had passed."
Daniel 1:12-16 (NASB) "'Please put your servants to the test for ten days, and let us be given some vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then let our appearance be examined in your presence...'"
Daniel 10:2-3 (NLT) "When this vision came to me, I, Daniel, had been in mourning for three whole weeks. All that time I had eaten no rich food. No meat or wine crossed my lips, and I used no fragrant lotions until those three weeks had passed."
Normal Fast
A normal fast typically involves abstaining from all food and drink, except water. It is a common spiritual discipline meant to deepen one's relationship with God through prayer, self-denial, and reflection.
Matthew 4:2 (NASB) "And after He(Jesus) had fasted for forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry."
Ezra 8:21-23 (NLT) "And there by the Ahava Canal, I gave orders for all of us to fast and humble ourselves before our God. We prayed that he would give us a safe journey and protect us, our children, and our goods as we traveled."
Matthew 4:2 (NASB) "And after He(Jesus) had fasted for forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry."
Ezra 8:21-23 (NLT) "And there by the Ahava Canal, I gave orders for all of us to fast and humble ourselves before our God. We prayed that he would give us a safe journey and protect us, our children, and our goods as we traveled."
Absolute Fast
An absolute fast involves abstaining from all food and drink, including water. It is a more intense form of fasting, often practiced for urgent prayer or spiritual breakthroughs, but should only be done for short durations due to health risks.
Esther 4:16 (NASB) "Go, gather all the Jews who are found in Susa, and fast for me; do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants also will fast in the same way."
Acts 9:9 (NLT) "He (Paul) remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink."
Esther 4:16 (NASB) "Go, gather all the Jews who are found in Susa, and fast for me; do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants also will fast in the same way."
Acts 9:9 (NLT) "He (Paul) remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink."