From Paul Gage
FASTING AND PRAYING FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD OCTOBER 16, 2020
We are given counsel in several scriptures to "Endure to the end." The end of what? In Matthew 24, Mark 13 and Luke 21 the disciples asked Jesus about the things that are to come to pass.
Matthew 24:11 "But he that remaineth steadfast, and is not overcome, the same shall be saved."
Mark 13:13 "...but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Luke 21:36 "And what I say unto one, I say unto all. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, and keep my commandments, that ye may be counted worthy to escape all these things which shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man when he shall come clothed in the glory of his Father."
So, endure to the end of what? Endure to the end of life on earth, as we know it, whether in death or until the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We continue to long for the Kingdom of God to come on earth as it is in Heaven.
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. Many saints are fasting the Wednesday evening and Sunday morning meals in preparation for worship. Again, it is between you and the Lord, but in this case, the Saints, as a body, are being asked to observe each Sunday as a day of fasting and prayer. This does not mean you have to fast all day.
How are you, me, us, we doing in these efforts that have been being encouraged since April of this year. We are seven months closer to the Lord's return than in April, but are we, as individuals, families, Branches, and a "living Church" any closer spiritually? Have we reached a point where it is a dread or "matter of fact" compliance? We have probably heard all the counsel there is in regards to physical fasting and praying.
Consider a different approach, not to do away with, but to enhance our efforts of fasting and praying for the Kingdom of God.
Fast from anger and hatred. Give all those you meet an extra dose of love each day.
Fast from judging others. Before making any judgments, recall how Jesus overlooks our faults.
Fast from discouragement. Hold on to Jesus' promise that He has a perfect plan for your life.
Fast from complaining. When you find yourself about to complain, close your eyes and recall some of the little moments of joy Jesus has given you. Keep your eyes upon Jesus.
Fast from resentment and bitterness. Forgive those who may have hurt you. DC 17:7,18.
Examine your stewardship response as defined in DC 147:5a.
Prayer: The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence: "The time of business does not with me differ from the time of prayer, and in the noise and clatter of my kitchen, while several persons are at the same time calling for different things, I possess God in as great tranquility as if I were upon my knees at the blessed sacrament."
The Lord Bless You!
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