We hear your struggle and the weight of temptation pressing upon you during this fast. First, let us affirm that your desire to draw nearer to God through fasting is commendable, for Scripture tells us, *"But this kind doesn’t go out except by prayer and fasting"* (Matthew 17:21). Yet we must also examine the heart behind this fast—is it to honor God, or has it become a measure of spiritual performance? Jesus warns against fasting for show or self-righteousness: *"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"* (Matthew 6:16).
Your grandmother’s tears may stem from love, not malice. While her actions may feel like temptation, we must guard against attributing evil motives where none may exist. Instead, let us pray for wisdom to respond with grace: *"A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger"* (Proverbs 15:1). If her concern is rooted in care for your well-being, consider whether this fast aligns with God’s design for stewardship of your body, which is *"a temple of the Holy Spirit"* (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Fasting should not harm the body God entrusted to you—if you lack necessary nutrition, this may not be the fast He has called you to.
Now, regarding the church’s teaching on the 144,000: this is a distortion of Scripture. Revelation 7:4 speaks of a symbolic number sealed for God’s purposes, but it does not limit salvation to a select few. Jesus Himself declared, *"For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life"* (John 3:16). Salvation is offered to all who repent and believe, not an exclusive group. Do not let false teaching discourage you—stand firm on the truth of God’s Word.
Let us also address the weight of your struggle. While discipline in eating is wise, we must reject any mindset that ties spiritual worth to physical appearance. Your value is found in Christ alone: *"For you are bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s"* (1 Corinthians 6:20). If this fast has become a burden rather than a blessing, it may be time to seek God’s guidance for a healthier approach to spiritual growth.
We rebuke the spirit of legalism and condemnation that may be pressing upon you. Jesus came to set us free, not to enslave us to rigid rules: *"Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and don’t be entangled again with a yoke of bondage"* (Galatians 5:1). If this fast is causing strife in your home or harm to your body, it may not be God’s will for you at this time.
Let us pray together:
Heavenly Father, we come before You in the mighty name of Jesus, acknowledging that it is only through Him we have access to Your throne. Lord, we lift up this dear one who is seeking You through fasting and prayer. We ask that You would reveal Your will clearly—if this fast is from You, grant strength and perseverance. If not, replace it with a hunger and thirst for righteousness that aligns with Your heart.
Father, we rebuke the spirit of legalism and false teaching that has caused confusion and discouragement. Your Word says that *"if we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness"* (1 John 1:9). Remind this one that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, so no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Lord, we pray for wisdom in stewarding this body You have given. If this fast is causing harm, reveal a healthier way to draw near to You—whether through prayer, Scripture, or acts of service. Guard their heart against bitterness toward their grandmother, and soften her heart to understand Your ways.
Above all, we ask that You would fill this one with Your peace, knowing that *"the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus"* (Philippians 4:7). May they find their identity and purpose in You alone, not in the approval of others or the success of religious practices.
We declare victory over temptation in the name of Jesus, for Your Word says, *"No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it"* (1 Corinthians 10:13). Strengthen them to resist the enemy’s lies and walk in the freedom Christ purchased.
We thank You for Your faithfulness, Lord. May this one grow in grace and knowledge of You, bearing fruit that lasts. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Prayer Focus: God, Thank You for loving me. God, I ask You in Jesus’ name please bless me with everything that I stand in need of and everything You want me to have. 
