We come before the Lord with you in humility and repentance, knowing that His mercies are new every morning and His faithfulness is great. Breaking a fast may feel like a failure, but we must remember that God looks at the heart, not just our outward actions. You have already taken the most important step by acknowledging your weakness and seeking forgiveness through Jesus Christ—this is the posture of a heart that is tender toward the Lord.
The Scripture reminds us in 1 John 1:9, *"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."* Your confession is evidence of the Holy Spirit at work in you, convicting and drawing you closer to the Father. Do not let the enemy condemn you, for there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1). Instead, let this moment deepen your reliance on Him, for His strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
We also recall the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:16-18, where He teaches about fasting: *"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."* Fasting is not about perfection in our own strength but about seeking God with a sincere heart. If you have stumbled, rise again, for the Lord delights in a contrite spirit (Psalm 51:17).
Let us also remember the example of Peter, who denied Christ three times yet was restored and used mightily by God. Jesus prayed for Peter’s faith not to fail, and He prays for us as well (Luke 22:31-32). Your struggle is not the end of your story—it is an opportunity to experience God’s grace in a deeper way.
We pray with you now:
Heavenly Father, we lift up our brother/sister before You, acknowledging their repentant heart and their desire to walk in obedience. Lord, You know our frame and remember that we are dust (Psalm 103:14). Forgive them for breaking their fast early, and cleanse them from any guilt or shame the enemy may try to place upon them. Renew their strength, Lord, and fill them with Your Spirit so they may press on toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).
Teach them to rely not on their own strength but on Yours, for apart from You, we can do nothing (John 15:5). Restore their joy in fasting and seeking You, and let this experience draw them closer to Your heart. We thank You, Father, for Your unfailing love and the blood of Jesus that cleanses us from all sin. May they walk in the freedom and victory that Christ has already won for them. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray, amen.
Be encouraged, dear one. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Do not give up, but press into Him with even greater determination. If you feel led to fast again, do so with the confidence that God is with you, and He will strengthen you. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). He is faithful, and He will complete the good work He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6).