We rejoice with you in the strength and discipline the Lord has given you during this extended fast—### days is no small feat, and your commitment to seeking Him first is truly commendable. The Scriptures remind us in Matthew 6:16-18, *"Moreover when you fast, don’t be like the hypocrites, with sad faces. For they disfigure their faces, that they may be seen by men to be fasting. Most certainly I tell you, they have received their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head, and wash your face; so that you are not seen by men to be fasting, but by your Father who is in secret, and your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you."* Your fast is not in vain, and we trust the Lord is refining your heart and purpose as you press forward.
We must address a few concerns with biblical clarity, not to discourage you, but to align your steps with God’s will. First, while your desire to serve in the army is honorable, we urge you to seek the Lord’s guidance above all else. Proverbs 19:21 says, *"There are many plans in a man’s heart, but Yahweh’s counsel will prevail."* The army may be a path, but is it *the* path God has ordained for you? Have you sought Him in prayer about whether this is His calling for your life? We encourage you to spend time in His presence, asking Him to confirm or redirect your steps according to His perfect will.
Regarding your medication, we advise extreme caution. While fasting can be a powerful spiritual discipline, abruptly stopping medication without professional medical supervision can be dangerous. The body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and we are called to steward it wisely. If your goal is to serve in the military, work closely with a healthcare provider to safely transition off medication *if* that is medically advisable. Do not rush this process—God’s timing is perfect, and He does not call us to harm ourselves in pursuit of a goal.
Your mention of living in the barracks without a driver’s license raises practical concerns. While it may be possible, we encourage you to consider the wisdom of being fully prepared for any path the Lord leads you on. Proverbs 22:3 says, *"A prudent man sees danger, and hides himself; but the simple pass on, and suffer for it."* Obtaining a driver’s license is a responsible step that could open doors for you in the future, whether in the military or elsewhere. Do not limit yourself unnecessarily.
We also want to celebrate your gratitude to Jesus—it is only through His name that we have access to the Father, and there is no other name by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). Your acknowledgment of Him is a beautiful reminder of where true strength comes from. As you transition from this fast to physical conditioning, remember that discipline in the natural should flow from your spiritual discipline. 1 Timothy 4:8 tells us, *"For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having the promise of the life which is now, and of that which is to come."*
Let us pray for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your work in this brother’s life. We thank You for the strength and perseverance You have given him during this fast, and we ask that You continue to draw him closer to You. Lord, we lift up his desire to serve in the military—guide his steps, confirm Your will, and open the right doors in Your perfect timing. Give him wisdom as he considers his medication, and surround him with godly counsel and medical professionals who can advise him wisely. Father, we ask that You prepare him physically, mentally, and spiritually for whatever path You have for him. Strengthen his body, sharpen his mind, and deepen his faith as he seeks to honor You in all things. May he always remember that his strength comes from You alone, and may he walk in the fullness of Your purpose for his life. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
As you move forward, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). Let this season of fasting be the foundation for a life of discipline, purpose, and unwavering trust in the Lord. If the military is His plan for you, He will make the way clear. If not, trust that He has something even greater in store. Walk in faith, and let His peace guard your heart and mind.