Moses & The Ten Commandments
The first example I am going to provide is back at the beginning of the Bible. In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses fasted before receiving the commandments. He fasted for 40 days and then went up to Mount Saini for the meeting with God, Himself.
After Moses came down from Mount Saini, the Lord saw the Israelites transgressing the commandments that were just given, this resulted in Moses angrily breaking the tablets of stone. After this event occurred, he ascends up the mountain once again and proceeds to fast another 40 days before receiving the law once more.
When I went up the mountain to receive the tablets of stone, the tablets of the covenant that the Lord made with you, I remained on the mountain forty days and forty nights. I neither ate bread nor drank water.
Deuteronomy 9:9
What You Need To Know:
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RECOMMIT TO GOD. The Lenten season is here and fasting prepares you for the works God has ordained you to do. KRISTEN FEOLA tells why you should fast.
Fasting was an expected discipline in both the Old and New Testament eras.Fasting and prayer can restore the loss of the first love for your Lord and result in a more intimate relationship with Christ.Fasting is a biblical way to truly humble yourself in the sight of God.It enables the Holy Spirit to reveal your true spiritual condition, resulting in brokenness, repentance, and a transformed life.
Spiritual Preparation For Fasting And Prayer
In preparation for this special time with God, cru.orgs guide to fasting urges that you examine your heart. Ask God to help you see your brokenness clearly so that you can confess your sins and repent. In Scripture, God frequently calls upon people to repent of their sins before listening to their prayers.
You can look to King Davids example in Psalm 66:16-20:
Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what he has done for me. I cried aloud to him, and he was extolled with my tongue.If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.But truly God has listened he has given heed to the words of my prayer.
Blessed be God,
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Esther & The Safety Of The Jews
When Mordecai, one of the personalities in the book of Esther, hears that the Jews are going to be exterminated, he told Queen Esther. The queen fasted for the safety of her people and risked her life with a petition to save them. The Jews also fasted for 3 days without food or drink to communicate with the Lord and ask for protection.
For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your fathers house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
Esther 4:14
Fasting Is An Express Of Humility
15. Psalm 35:13-14 Yet when they were ill, I put on sackcloth and humbled myself with fasting. When my prayers returned to me unanswered, I went about mourning as though for my friend or brother. I bowed my head in grief as though weeping for my mother.
16. 1 Kings 21:25-27 When Ahab heard these words, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and fasted. He lay in sackcloth and went around meekly.
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New Wine Into New Wineskins
Then Johns disciples came and asked him, How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?Jesus answered, How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them then they will fast.No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.
Matthew 9:14-17
The entire purpose of the disciples and the Pharisees fasting was to show a longing for the day God would show up and show favor to Israel again.
But Jesus was right there with them! There was no need for fasting at that moment.
But immediately afterward, Jesus said, the time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them then they will fast.
He wasnt putting an end to all fasting.
He specifically said the time to fast would be coming again!
But now, our fasting isnt filled with mourning as it was for the Pharisees. Instead, its filled with longing because we know Jesus came and will come again!
Biblical Fasting In Todays Church
Although fasting is not required, it is highly encouraged by Christ, Himself. When questioned as to why the Pharisees and the disciples of John the Baptist fasted while Jesus disciples did not. Christ answered, in the book of Matthew, that fasting would become a necessity when He was leaving the world.
And Jesus said to them, Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.
Matthew 9:15
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What The Bible Says About Fasting In Secret
In the King James Version of the Bible the text reads: That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto. thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
What does Apostle Paul say about fasting?
Also, in all thirteen letters apostle, Paul writes, there is not one piece of the works of literature mention a command of fasting. When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.
How often did Johns disciples fast?
They had the tradition of fasting twice a week even though the Mosaic Law prescribed only one fast on the Day of Atonement. So people asked Jesus why His disciples were not fasting. He gave the answers in three short parables. Fasting during the wedding feast is pointless.
What power is in prayer and fasting?
Through prayer and fasting, we develop a passion for God that supercedes everything else. When this happens, spiritual power and energy begins to flow into us, allowing us to live above our circumstances and low self expectations.
Why fasting is important in the Bible?
In the Bible, fasting occurs when there is a need for a spiritual breakthrough due to the burdens of life. Fasting is the way that the saints of God received a breakthrough to direct them and help them deal with a crisis in their lives.
How often did the followers of Jesus fast?
Why did Jesus tell his disciples to fast?
How Do You Fast
So how do you fast? Everybody does it differently. Some people eat or drink nothing for twenty-four hours, either on a special occasion, or once a week, or once a month. Other people drink water or fruit juice instead of food. Still others dont eat certain types of food for a period of time, or only have one meal instead of three in a single day. Because of personal medical issues, some people cant fast, or they cant fast as intensely as others.
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What Are The Rules Of Fasting In Christianity
Here are both practical and spiritual rules for fasting.
- Fast in Secret. We can see in Matthew 6 that Jesus expects our fasting to be solely between us and the Lord. …
- Have the Right Motives. Fasting as a Christian means to humble ourselves before the Lord. …
- Physically Prepare for a Fast Lasting Longer Than a Couple Days.
Say This 1 Minute Prayer
Lord Jesus, I believe you died for my sins, Forgive me of all my iniquities. I accept you as my Lord and Saviour from today and forevermore. Come and Be the Lord of my life and I am willing to obey your command and live according to your will as you help me, Thank you for accepting me into your fold. AMEN
JOHN 3: 3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God
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What Does The Bible Say About Prayer And Fasting
Jesus practiced fasting when he was tempted by Satan, . During those 40 days of loneliness, He ate nothing . In fact, the earlier mention of fasting in the Old Testament were the instructions God gave Moses after leading his people to freedom in Exodus 13:3, Then Moses said to the people, Remember this day in which you went out of Egypt, out of the land where you were made to stay and work. For the Lord brought you out of this place by a powerful hand. No bread made with yeast will be eaten. The book of Acts also records believers fasting before they made important decisions . It allows us to take our eyes off the things of this world, we can more successfully turn our attention to Christ.
One of the many reasons why God called his people to fast had to do with the culture and times. Today, we can have a full meal in three minutes thanks to freezer foods and microwaves. Back then, hours upon hours went into food preparation. Fasting was a way to take the focus off ourselves and put it back on God. Jesus also gave us clear instructions on how to fast because it was meant to be a spiritual breakthrough, not pride.
What Is A Partial Fast
A partial fast is also known as a three-day spiritual fast. We see examples of Daniel and his friends eating veggies, fruit, and drinking water for ten days. They used this fast to honor God while in captivity. Others fasted using different lengths of time and how. This fast could last from part of a day to an entire day to several days or weeks .
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Things To Avoid While Fasting And Praying
Fasting is not about weight loss or causing health complications or marriage issues. Anytime a fast is being seriously considered, look at the calendar to ensure you wont be doing anything to jeopardize your fast. Its not a good idea to fast while taking the family to Disney World. Its not a good idea of fast from sex unless you have the support of your partner. While you fast:
– Avoid drugs, even natural herbal drugs, and homeopathic remedies.
– Medication should be withdrawn only with your doctors supervision.
– Limit your activity. Exercise moderately.
If you sincerely humble yourself before the Lord, repent and seek Gods face, you will experience breakthrough and his presence. Fasting and prayer are difficult, and it takes time to build spiritual muscles. Consider starting small. If you fail to make it through your first fast, do not be discouraged. You may have tried to fast too long the first time out. Fasting changes us for the better.
This article is part of our larger resource library of Christian practices and disciplines important to the Christian faith. From speaking in tongues to tithing & baptism, we want to provide easy to read and understand articles that answer your questions about Christian living.
How Do I Prepare For Fasting And Praying
Its important to prepare for fasting and prayer so that you will do it successfully. Prepare your heart by focusing on prayer, and removing distractions from your life. You can take a retreat to a quiet place, or if not possible, keep away from the TV and other distractions. Eat lighter meals as you approach your fasting time to prepare your body. Notify those around you that you will be taking some time to pray and fast so they can give you the space you need.
Have a journal ready to write the things God will reveal to you. Spend time in the Word of God so that you prepare your heart for the fasting period. Decide on the number of days to fast as the Holy Spirit leads you.
To prepare to fast and pray, you should:
spend time in prayer and fasting before you begin your fast
make a list of who you will be praying for and the biblical reasons to fast and pray
set aside uninterrupted time each day during your fasting period to meet with God solitude is very important as distractions will draw your attention away from the main task of fasting and praying
pray for forgiveness, cleansing, and righteousness the biblical reasons to fast included repentance .
stop eating after dinner on day one, break your fast at lunch or breakfast on day two, return to normal meals during the afternoon of day three.
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Somethings Come By Praying And Fasting
Jesus said, When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.
Fasting is an important spiritual discipline that Christians have practiced even before Jesus came to earth. Jesus gave us words of wisdom concerning fasting so we would do it the right way. He wants us to have the right attitude when fasting, and not use it to show others how righteous we are.
In Matthew 6:5-6, Jesus told us that we should not make fasting a public display or make ourselves appear different from others by altering our appearance. Rather, others should not know that we are fasting, only God needs to know. Somethings Come by Praying and Fasting
In this article, we will look at some simple lessons on prayer and fasting to help us better understand how we should do it.
What Should I Eat When Fasting And Praying
Fruit juices, preferably freshly squeezed or blended, diluted in 50 percent distilled water if the fruit is acid. Orange, apple, pear, grapefruit, papaya, grape, peach or other fruits are good. Vegetable juice made from lettuce, celery, and carrots in three equal parts. Herb tea with a drop of honey.
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Mfm 70 Days Fasting And Prayer 25th September 2022
PRAYER POINTS
THE BIBLE IN 70 DAYS || Day 9
225. I confess that my healing and deliverance have come, in Jesus name.226. I receive grace upon grace, in the name of Jesus.227. Every ancient-time curse upon my land, be wiped off by the blood of Jesus, in the name of Jesus.228. The leaders over our land shall not confuse and abort the prophecy of God upon my life, in the name of Jesus.229. We release a divine defence around this country now, in Jesus name.230. We remove the sting of the serpent from this country, in Jesus name.231. I shall not miss my inheritance, in the name of Jesus.
MFM 70 Days Fasting And Prayer For Today 25 September 2022 || Day 49
MFM 70 Days Fasting And Prayer 25 September 2022232. I shall be the ruler of the works of my hands and of others around me, in the name of Jesus.233. My soul shall connect with the mysteries by which I shall become a judge and a deliverer, in the name of Jesus.234. I shall be a ruler who redeems the weak, in the name of Jesus.235. I shall be ordained for an advantage, in the name of Jesus.236. When they count the living, I shall be counted among them, in the name of Jesus.237. When they count the anointed, I shall be counted among them, in the name of Jesus.238. The hands that give advantage, lay hold on me now, in Jesus name.239. O God, arise and quicken my mortal flesh, in the name of Jesus.
MFM 70 Days Fasting And Prayer 24 September 2022 Day 8 Prayer Points
PRAYERS FOR CHURCH, MISSIONARY ACTIVITIES AND CHRISTIAN HOMES
Bible Accent: Prayer Fasting And Almsgiving Are Important
The Bible contains many references to prayer, fasting and almsgiving. These were important practices of the Jews during biblical times, and they also are important to Catholics today.
For example, the churchs liturgical season of Lent focuses on prayer, fasting and almsgiving. These practices help us remember how Jesus suffered and died for our sins and was resurrected at Easter.
During Lent, Catholics do not eat meat on Fridays, and they fast and abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. This spiritual self-discipline is meant to help us focus on Easter.
Prayer also is an important part of Lent. One popular prayer is the Stations of the Cross, which uses Scripture to recall Jesus walk to his crucifixion at Golgotha.
Lent also is a time to focus on giving alms to the poor. One collection for the poor that is conducted during this time is CRS Rice Bowl, which is a Catholic Relief Services program.
Repenting of our sins also is a highlight of Lent. In the Bible, people who wanted to show God how sorry they were for their sins sometimes placed ashes on their heads. That is one reason why ashes, made in the sign of the cross, are imposed on our foreheads during Ash Wednesday liturgies.
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Is Fasting Required For Christians Today Biblical Answers
Fastings acceptable to God when a Christian pursues it with the right heart. However, it brings God disfavor when taken in the wrong action. The more I learn about fasting and the Lords wisdom, the more questions produce in my head. I want to understand the Biblical context and origin of a Christian practice I am participating in. Is fasting a requirement for Christians today? Read below to see what I have discovered.
Are Christians required to fast today? No, Christians are not required to fast. However, its highly recommended to fast as a believer, and Jesus Himself expects it of us. This is to be more spiritually fed and more intimate in a relationship with the Lord.
Digging into more research, I have discovered quite a few interesting facts and scriptures that relate to fasting. I even learned about the thirteen letters that the apostle Paul wrote in the New Testament. Here are few findings that I thought would be important to highlight for others who are curious about why Christians have been fasting since the beginning.
Fasting is defined as the action of abstaining from food or drink for a spiritual reason. Christians fast for a more intimate and deeper relationship with the Lord, Himself.
