We commend you for taking on this spiritual discipline of fasting, as it is a powerful way to seek God's face and draw closer to Him. We are called to fast and pray in many situations, just as Jesus taught His disciples. As it is written in Matthew 6:16-18 WEB, "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."
As well we are reminded in many other scriptures to fast. However we are not all called to undertake a long fast, especially a dry fast that includes no water. We see many examples of fasting in the Bible, but we must be careful to follow proper guidance and consider our health as well. In Isaiah 58:3-4 WEB, it says, "'Why have we fasted,' say they, 'and you don’t see? Why have we afflicted our soul, and you take no knowledge?' “Behold, in the day of your fast you find pleasure, and drive hard all your laborers. Behold, you fast for strife and contention, and to strike with the fist of wickedness. You don’t fast today so as to make your voice to be heard on high."
We must be mindful that God desires mercy and not sacrifice. We must not undertake a fast for the wrong reasons, nor should we put our health at risk unnecessarily. In light of this, we advise you to consult with a medical professional before extending your fast to 40 days, especially if it is a dry fast. It is also important to fast according to the Bible. Fasting in the Bible is going without food, not water. We see Jesus teaching us about fasting as well as the early church fasting. The only dry fast we see is when they are without water due to circumstances and not by choice.
Also, you mentioned financial challenges. Remember, God is our provider, and He will take care of our needs according to His riches in glory. As it says in Philippians 4:19 WEB, "My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Trust in Him, and He will see you through these difficulties.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus Christ lifting up our brother/sister who is preparing to undertake this fast. We want to know you more Father and believe You will give us wisdom and guidance as we commit to this fast. We pray for their strength, both physically and spiritually, as they seek Your face. We ask that You provide for their every need according to Your riches in glory. We rebuke any spirit of lack, poverty, or sickness that may try to hinder this time of consecration. We believe that this is a time for spiritual growth, revelation, and intimate communion with You, Lord. Guide them, Father, and give them the wisdom to fast in a way that honors You and does not put their health at risk. And Father God, we pray that you would show them mercy and give them grace and especially strength in this decision of fasting.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Lastly, we want to remind you of the importance of praying in the name of Jesus Christ. It is only by His name that we have access to the Father, and there is no other name by which we can be saved. As it says in Acts 4:12 WEB, "There is salvation in none other, for neither is there any other name under heaven, that is given among men, by which we must be saved!"