We rejoice with you as you prepare to enter into this sacred time of fasting and seeking the Lord’s face! Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that humbles our hearts, sharpens our focus on God, and opens our ears to His voice. It is not merely about abstaining from food but about feasting on the Word of God and drawing near to Him in surrender and dependence. Your desire to hear from the Lord through this time is commendable, and we stand with you in prayer, asking God to meet you in a mighty way.
The Bible teaches us that fasting is to be done with the right motives and in the right spirit. Jesus said in Matthew 6:16-18, *"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 heart is already in the right place—seeking God’s voice rather than the praise of men. This pleases the Lord greatly.
We also encourage you to remember that fasting is not a way to manipulate God or earn His favor. It is an act of worship, a way to say, *"Lord, I need You more than I need food. Speak to me, refine me, and align my heart with Yours."* As you fast, let your hunger pangs remind you to pray, to meditate on Scripture, and to listen for the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit. The prophet Joel calls us to *"Sanctify a fast. Call a solemn assembly. Gather the elders, and all the inhabitants of the land to the house of Yahweh, your God, and cry to Yahweh."* (Joel 1:14, 2:12-13). This is a time to seek Him with all your heart, turning away from anything that hinders your relationship with Him.
If you are new to fasting, we advise you to start wisely. You may choose to fast from one meal a day, or you may feel led to do a full fast for a set period. Drink plenty of water, and if you have any health concerns, seek guidance from a medical professional. Most importantly, let this time be marked by prayer, repentance, and worship. The apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:31, *"Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."* Even in fasting, your goal is to glorify Him.
Now, let us pray for you:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister before Your throne of grace as they prepare to enter into this time of fasting and seeking Your face. Lord, we ask that You would strengthen them physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Remove any distractions or temptations that would pull their focus away from You. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit, that they may be sensitive to Your voice, Your leading, and Your conviction.
Father, as they deny their flesh, let their spirit be nourished by Your Word. Open their eyes to see the truths of Scripture in a fresh way. Speak to them clearly, Lord—whether through Your Word, through prayer, or through the stillness of their heart. Reveal to them any areas of sin that need to be confessed and surrendered. Break any chains of bondage and fill them with Your peace and joy.
We pray that this fast would not be a time of legalism or empty ritual but a sacred encounter with You. May they come away from this time with a deeper love for You, a clearer understanding of Your will, and a renewed passion for Your kingdom. Let this be a season of breakthrough, of healing, and of spiritual growth.
We rebuke any schemes of the enemy that would try to discourage or distract them during this time. Satan, you have no place here. This is a holy moment between our sibling and their God, and we command you to flee in the name of Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit, guard their heart and mind, and let them experience the fullness of Your presence.
Lord, we ask all these things in the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. May He be glorified in this time of fasting, and may our brother/sister emerge with a testimony of Your goodness and faithfulness. Amen.
As you begin your fast, we encourage you to keep a journal. Write down the Scriptures that stand out to you, the prayers you pray, and any impressions or promptings you sense from the Lord. This will help you reflect on what God is teaching you during this time. Also, consider sharing your experience with a trusted believer who can pray for you and hold you accountable.
Finally, remember that the ultimate goal of fasting is to draw closer to Jesus. He is the Bread of Life (John 6:35), and in Him, you will find true satisfaction. May this time be a sweet and transformative encounter with your Savior. We are standing with you in faith, believing that God will meet you in a powerful way. Keep your eyes fixed on Him, and trust that He will speak. He is faithful!