Fasting and Praying for the Kingdom of God July 11 2020

​---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: ​ Paul Gage

pauljg_64055@yahoo.com

 

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FASTING AND PRAYING FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD

The High Priests of the Restoration Branches as well as many other groups and branches have asked the Saints to observe each Sunday as a day of fasting and prayer. There are many reasons for asking the Saints to fast and pray. The ultimate objective, however, is for the return of Jesus Christ in His Glory and the establishment of His Kingdom (Zion) on earth.

Jesus is our chief example regarding fasting and prayer, as he fasted and prayed often, as indicated in the scriptures. In our efforts to grow spiritually, we always hear fast, pray, and study.

We understand fasting to be the practice of deliberately abstaining from food for spiritual purposes. Fasting is a means by which a believer brings his body into subjection. Fasting breaks down the barriers in man's carnal nature that stand in the way of the Holy Spirit's omnipotence. (All powerful) Pray about fasting before you start and plan your program.

We understand prayer to be or include "Mighty Prayer." Brother Earl Curry has one of the best definitions for mighty prayer in the Endowment Experience.

We understand study to be much more than just a casual or daily reading. Read  2 Nephi 6:101-103; 2 Nephi 14:3-4  and Jacob 2:50 for more insight about study. As well all know, feasting in a physical sense is not just a sandwich or a snack, but an all you can eat buffet. We are to sacrifice the physical to enhance the spiritual. How long since you have been to an all you can digest spiritual buffet?

In preparing to live our daily lives, preparing for each service we are able to attend,  preparing for the Solemn Assembly, preparing for Zion/the Kingdom of God, will require us to go above and beyond the "usual" preparations.

Consider the following from 2 Nephi 3:28-66. This is too long to include here, but take time to read it for yourselves and family.

The Kingdom is the only hope for the world and JESUS CHRIST has already gained the victory. Perhaps it is time for each of us to "afflict" ourselves through fasting and mourn for the sins of the world and in the church as well as our individual lives.

We are in another week closer to Christ's return. Stay strong and hold fasting to the Rod of Iron.

Please note hymn 1 in the Hymns of the Restoration,

"Let Us Praise the Lord." Verse four reads,

"Proclaim the tidings to the world.
God reigns with might and wisdom,
He is our Heavenly Father, He is our gracious king.
O let our souls be stayed on Him, o let us strive to please Him.
Let all that breathes proclaim Him, let glad hosannas ring."

 

God bless each of you in this time of trial and assist you in your efforts to come unto Him.

Paul Gage