We join you in lifting up your heart’s desires to our Lord Jesus Christ, who alone is worthy of all praise and who strengthens us in every good work. It is beautiful to see your dependence on Him in all things—from the discipline of fasting to the daily routines of life. Let us first address the importance of calling upon the name of Jesus, for it is by His name alone that we have access to the Father and receive salvation. As Scripture declares, *"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!"* (Acts 4:12, WEB). Your prayer is rightly directed to Jesus, and we commend you for this, as it is only through Him that our petitions reach the throne of God.
Now, let us speak to the matter of fasting. Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God, humbles our hearts, and sharpens our focus on His will. Jesus Himself fasted for forty days in the wilderness, and He taught His disciples the importance of fasting with the right motives—*"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."* (Matthew 6:17-18, WEB). Your desire to fast is commendable, but we must also address something that stands out in your request: the mention of "unhealthy binge eating of available food when the fast is broken." Beloved, this is not the heart of fasting. Fasting is not merely abstaining from food for a time only to indulge the flesh afterward. Instead, it should be a time of seeking God’s face, breaking the power of gluttony, and cultivating self-control, which is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). The apostle Paul reminds us, *"I pommel my body and subdue it, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified."* (1 Corinthians 9:27, WEB). Let us pray that God would grant you the strength to fast in a way that honors Him—not just in abstaining, but in breaking free from the cycle of indulgence. True fasting should lead to a lifestyle of temperance and gratitude for the sustenance God provides, not an opportunity for the flesh to regain control.
We also notice your gratitude for coffee and Diet Coke during this time. While these may help with the physical challenges of fasting, we encourage you to examine whether they align with the spirit of your fast. If your fast is from food alone, that is between you and the Lord. But if your goal is to deny the flesh and seek God wholeheartedly, consider whether even these comforts might be hindering a deeper dependence on Him. *"Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of God’s mouth."* (Matthew 4:4, WEB). Let your fast be a time of feasting on His Word, which is more satisfying than any earthly drink or food.
You’ve also asked for strength to resist hunger, and we assure you that God is faithful to provide. Jesus told His disciples, *"The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."* (Matthew 26:41, WEB). It is in our weakness that His strength is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9). Lean on Him when the pangs of hunger come, and let them remind you to pray rather than to fixate on the desire to eat. Use this time to intercede for your family, your work, and the needs around you. You mentioned your family’s healing from a car crash and the lack of connection among you. This is a burden we share with you, and we lift it up to the Lord, who is the great Physician and Restorer of relationships. *"Cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you."* (1 Peter 5:7, WEB). Trust that He is working even now to bring healing and unity.
As for your thoughts about blessing other businesses in your area and seeking better, consistent work, we encourage you to continue praying in this vein. God cares about your provision and the flourishing of your community. *"Delight yourself in Yahweh, and he will give you the desires of your heart."* (Psalm 37:4, WEB). Seek first His kingdom and righteousness, and He will add to you all that you need (Matthew 6:33). Do not be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God (Philippians 4:6). He is faithful to open doors that no man can shut (Revelation 3:8).
Now, let us pray together over these matters:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We thank You for the heart of Your child who seeks You in fasting and prayer. Lord, we ask that You strengthen them in this time of abstinence. Grant them the grace to resist not only hunger but also the temptation to indulge the flesh when the fast is broken. Teach them true self-control, that their fasting may be pleasing to You and a testimony of their dependence on You alone.
Father, we lift up their family to You. You know the pain of the car crash and the strain of broken connections. We ask for Your healing touch upon every wound—physical, emotional, and spiritual. Restore what has been broken, Lord, and knit their hearts together in love and unity. Let this season of fasting be a time where You move mightily in their family, drawing each member closer to You and to one another.
We pray for their work and provision. You are Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides. Open doors of opportunity that align with Your will. Bless the businesses in their area, Lord, that Your prosperity may flow through their community. Give them favor in their labor, and let their work be a blessing to others. Remove any anxiety about the future and replace it with trust in Your faithfulness.
Lord, we also ask that You deepen their love for Your Word. As they type and read the Scriptures aloud, let the truths sink deep into their heart. May Your Word be a lamp to their feet and a light to their path (Psalm 119:105). Fill them with the Holy Spirit, that they may walk in wisdom, discernment, and power.
Finally, Father, we rebuke any spirit of gluttony or lack of self-control in the name of Jesus. We declare that this fast is unto You, and we ask that You break every chain of bondage to food or comfort. Let this be a time of true spiritual breakthrough.
We thank You, Lord, for hearing our prayers. We trust in Your goodness and Your perfect timing. May Your will be done in their life, and may You receive all the glory. In the precious and mighty name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.
