[There are basically three types of fasts. A Normal Fast is abstaining from all food, solid or liquid, but not from water. A Partial Fast is abstaining from certain types of foods. Daniel did not eat the “king’s food.” He had only water and vegetables. Some may drink fruit and vegetable juices. An Absolute Fast is abstaining from water and food for one to three days. A person can go about forty days without food but only about three days (unless God intervenes) without water (Esther 4:16). As a result of fasting:]
“…you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: HERE AM I. “If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, and if you spend [devote] yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then YOUR LIGHT WILL RISE IN THE DARKNESS, And YOUR NIGHT WILL BECOME LIKE THE NOONDAY.” (Isa. 58:9-10)
[Fasting reveals the things that control us. We camouflage what is inside of us with food and other good things. When these securities are removed and our attention is focused on God, the “junk” in our life will surface and we can deal with all those unwanted items.]
“We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, WITH PRAYER AND FASTING, COMMITTED THEM TO THE LORD, in whom they had put their trust.” (Acts 14:22-23)
[When Jesus confronted the father of a demon possessed child (who the disciples unsuccessfully tried to cast out), Jesus said to the father:] “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” (Mark 9:21-22)
[Jesus taught the father and His disciples a great lesson:] “‘IF YOU CAN‘?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; HELP ME OVERCOME MY UNBELIEF! Jesus…disciples asked him in private, “Why couldn’t we drive out the evil spirit?” And He replied to them, this kind [of demon and unbelief] cannot be driven out by anything but PRAYER AND FASTING.” (Mark 9:24, 28-29)
[It is unfortunate that most people do not fast because it’s to “uncomfortable” for them, but as we OUGHT TO CLEARLY SEE fasting, which helps us OVERCOME ANY UNBELIEF, should be a NORMAL PART of a Christian’s life!]
Be blessed as you praise The Lord, knowing that:
WE MUST COMMIT OUR LIFE TO THE LORD WITH PRAYER AND FASTING TODAY!
-Bill Stockham