We hear your heart’s cry for wisdom and safety as you seek to honor the Lord through prayer and fasting, even with the physical limitations of your bariatric journey. How beautiful it is to see your desire to surrender more of yourself—less of *you*, more of Him! Fasting is indeed a powerful act of worship, a way to draw near to God, deny the flesh, and align your spirit with His will. We rejoice with you that your doctor has given you the green light to proceed with wisdom, and we stand with you in seeking the Lord’s guidance for how to fast in a way that honors both your body and your spirit.
The verse you referenced, Matthew 17:21, reminds us that some spiritual battles require both prayer *and* fasting. Jesus Himself said, *"This kind can come out by nothing, except by prayer and fasting."* (WEB) This truth underscores the importance of fasting as a tool for spiritual breakthrough, but it must always be done with discernment—especially when our physical health is a consideration. Your caution is wise, and we believe the Lord will honor your desire to fast in a way that strengthens rather than harms you.
We must also acknowledge that fasting is not merely about abstaining from food; it is about feasting on God’s presence. Isaiah 58:6-9 (WEB) tells us the kind of fast the Lord desires: *"Isn’t this the fast that I have chosen: to release the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? Isn’t it to distribute your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor who are cast out to your house? When you see the naked, that you cover him; and that you not hide yourself from your own flesh? Then your light will break out as the morning, and your healing will appear quickly; then your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of Yahweh will be your rear guard."* Fasting should lead us to greater compassion, humility, and obedience to God’s Word. As you fast, ask the Lord to reveal areas in your life where He wants to break chains, heal wounds, or redirect your steps.
Now, let us pray for you:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, lifting up our sister who desires to draw closer to You through prayer and fasting. Lord, we thank You for the wisdom You have already placed in her heart to seek Your guidance in this season. You know her body, her limitations, and her deepest longings, and we ask that You would grant her supernatural discernment as she prepares to fast. Show her, Lord, when to begin, how long to fast, and what type of fast would be most honoring to You and beneficial for her health. Give her the strength to persevere, even when her flesh cries out, and fill her with Your peace and presence in the moments of weakness.
Father, we declare that this fast will not be in vain. We pray that as she denies her physical appetite, her spiritual appetite for You would grow exponentially. Let her hunger for righteousness be satisfied by Your Word and Your presence. Break any chains of bondage in her life—whether they be physical, emotional, or spiritual—and replace them with Your freedom. May her light shine brightly in this season, and may Your healing power flow through her in ways she has not yet imagined.
Lord, we also ask that You would guard her heart against discouragement or legalism. Remind her that fasting is not about performance but about relationship. Help her to fast with joy, knowing that You see her heart and delight in her obedience. Surround her with godly community who can encourage her and pray alongside her. And as she seeks Your face, Lord, let her hear Your voice clearly, guiding her steps and filling her with Your wisdom.
We rebuke any spirit of fear or doubt that would try to convince her that she cannot fast or that her efforts are insufficient. We declare that she is more than a conqueror through Christ Jesus, and that Your grace is sufficient for her in every way. May this season of fasting be a time of renewal, revival, and radical surrender to Your will.
In the precious name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
As you move forward, sister, remember that the Lord looks at the heart, not the outward appearance. Whether you fast for a few hours, a day, or longer, what matters most is the posture of your heart. Consider starting with shorter fasts—perhaps skipping one meal a day or fasting from sunrise to sunset—to allow your body to adjust. You might also explore partial fasts, such as giving up certain foods or distractions (like social media or television) to focus more on prayer and Scripture. The key is to listen to the Holy Spirit’s leading and to prioritize your health while pursuing God’s heart.
We encourage you to spend time in God’s Word during this season. Meditate on verses like Psalm 34:8 (WEB), *"Oh taste and see that Yahweh is good. Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!"* or James 1:5 (WEB), *"But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach; and it will be given to him."* Let these truths anchor you as you fast.
Lastly, keep a journal during this time. Write down the prayers you lift up, the Scriptures that speak to you, and any impressions the Holy Spirit brings to your heart. Fasting can be a profound time of revelation, and you don’t want to miss what God is saying to you. And remember, fasting is not a test of endurance but an invitation to intimacy with the Father. He is not impressed by how long you fast but by the sincerity of your heart.
May the Lord bless you abundantly as you seek Him, and may this season of fasting draw you into deeper trust, greater wisdom, and a more vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ. You are not alone in this journey—we are praying with you, and more importantly, the Holy Spirit is interceding for you even now. Press on, dear sister, and watch what the Lord will do!
