‘When you fast’

Fasting is consciously abstaining from food: either entirely or partially for a predetermined period of time so as to concentrate on the Lord Jesus Christ. Fasting can also involve the abstaining from customary or choice nourishment and activities for short or long periods.

Findings by Michael Mosley (BBC) show that short periods of fasting can achieve a number of health benefits.

 When you give – Matt 6:2  When you pray – Matt 6:7  When you fast – Matt 6:16  Do not store (Trust God) – Matt 6:19  Do not worry – Matt 6:25

36 Anna, a prophet, was also there. She was a descendant of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher. She was now very old. Her husband had died seven years after they were married, 37 and she had been a widow for 84 years. Anna never left the temple courtyard but worshiped day and night by fasting and praying. 38 At that moment she came up to Mary and Joseph and began to thank God. She spoke about Jesus to all who were waiting for Jerusalem to be set free. (Luke 2:36-38)

1 Then the Spirit led Jesus into the desert to be tempted by the devil. 2 Jesus did not eat anything for 40 days and 40 nights. At the end of that time, he was hungry. Matthew 4:1-2

2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set Barnabas and Saul apart for me. I want them to do the work for which I called them.” 3 After fasting and praying, Simeon, Lucius, and Manaen placed their hands on Barnabas and Saul, and released them from their work in Antioch. Acts 13:2-3

Fasting does not change God. Rather, fasting brings us closer to God. When we draw near to God the devil flees (James 4:7-8).

 Daniel Fast (Daniel 10).  Total Fast (Jesus)  Living a fasted life (Philippians 4:5-6 )

 We shall dedicate certain hours of different days to gather together and pray. Please decide how you would want to go about a fast.