FASTING AND PRAYING FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD DECEMBER 4, 2020
FASTING AND PRAYING FOR THE KINGDOM OF GOD
December 4, 2020
As you might know, for several months now the Saints have been asked, as a body, 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. So, what is fasting?
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)
The scriptures are full of examples of fasting, the reasons for it and the results. There are a number of different types of fasting: absolute which means no food or water; partial which means no food, but water is permissible; types of food; see Daniel 1:8-15 and 10:2-14. Scriptures also indicate where people fasted one meal, one day, three days, seven days, up to forty days.
Fasting is, for the most part, an individual practice. Therefore the person decides how, when, and what to fast and for what purposes. Fasting is a covenant or commitment to the Lord. Pray about it before you start. Write out your plan for fasting indicating why you are fasting, how you are fasting, the times to start and end your fast and perhaps a scriptural reference. Keep a journal so you can record your efforts.
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.
Critical times have always called for critical measures to meet the circumstances. You can find such things in all the scriptures and Church History. A temporary situation in the world is the virus that is greatly affecting many Saints individually and all of us collectively. Let us fast and pray for the physical needs as well as the spiritual. The most critical need of the world is to know Jesus Christ. Some words from the "Admonition" remind us
"O My people, saith the Spirit, Hear the Word of God today,
Be not slothful, but obedient, tis the world's momentous day.."
Take ye then, my hand extended, Let me lead you where I will;
Peace and safety, light and glory Crown the crest of Zion's hill."
God bless.
No comments:
Post a Comment