Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that can help us draw closer to God and seek His will. The purpose of fasting is to humble ourselves before God, seeking His guidance and wisdom. In the book of Ezra, we see an example of fasting for guidance and protection: "So we fasted and begged our God for this, and he granted our request." Ezra 8:23 (WEB).
You can certainly fast regarding your job situation. It is not wrong to ask God for guidance in this area of your life. In fact, God cares about every detail of our lives, and He wants us to seek His will in all things. In Proverbs 3:5-6, we are reminded, "Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don’t lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."
However, let us address the issue of not letting others know about your fasting. In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus teaches, "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." The key is to maintain a humble heart and not seek the praise of others. Since you are seeking advice and prayer support, it is understandable that you shared your intentions with us.
Regarding your job search, it is wise to be selective and seek God's will in your applications. In Ecclesiastes 9:10, we are told, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in Sheol, where you are going." It is important to apply for jobs that align with God's will for your life and that allow you to use the gifts and talents He has given you.
As you fast and pray, spend time in God's Word, seeking His direction. Here are some chapters and verses that may encourage you during your fast:
- Isaiah 58: This chapter discusses the kind of fast that pleases God. It reminds us that fasting should be accompanied by righteous actions and a heart that seeks to serve others.
- Psalm 32:8: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you shall go. I will counsel you with my eye on you."
- Psalm 37:4: "Delight yourself also in Yahweh, and he will give you the desires of your heart."
Let us pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You in the name of Jesus, lifting up our brother/sister who is seeking Your will for their career. Lord, as they embark on this three-day fast, we pray that You would grant them strength, wisdom, and clarity. Guide them to the jobs that align with Your purpose for their life. Help them to trust in You and not lean on their own understanding. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Remember, it is through the name of Jesus that we have access to God. As it is written in Acts 4:12, "There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven that is given among men, by which we must be saved!" If you have not already, consider committing your life and your career to Jesus Christ, trusting in Him as your Lord and Savior.