21 Days of Prayer & Fasting
Why We Participate
1. A Humble Posture Before God
We recognize our need to humble ourselves before God (Psalm 35:13, Isaiah 58:5). Through prayer and fasting, we express our dependence on God, acknowledging that fruitful ministry flows from a heart surrendered to His guidance and grace.
2. Tracing the Steps of Jesus
The intentional season of prayer and fasting finds its roots in the very steps of Jesus Himself as He embarked on His ministry (Luke 4:1-2). By following in His footsteps, we position ourselves to align with God's will and purpose for the unfolding year.
3. Prioritizing God's Kingdom Agenda
Jesus' directive to "seek Him first" resonates profoundly in our hearts (Matthew 6:33). Our commitment to prayer and fasting is a deliberate choice to prioritize God's Kingdom agenda, trusting that as we seek Him, everything needed for life and ministry will fall into place.
4. Honoring God with Our First Fruits
Aligning with the biblical principle of "first fruits," we dedicate the initial moments of our year, the first portion of our income, and the opening day of our week to God (Leviticus 23:9-10, Proverbs 3:9-10, Malachi 3:6-12). This act of honor positions us to experience God's blessings and abundance throughout the entirety of the year.
5. Establishing a Foundation for Ministry
Just as Esther fasted before approaching the king and Moses spent 40 days fasting on Mount Sinai, our prayer and fasting lay the foundation for a year of impactful ministry (Esther 4:16, Exodus 34:28). This intentional focus allows us to discern God's guidance and set the course for the unique challenges and opportunities that await.
Join Us in Unveiling the "Why"
We extend a heartfelt invitation for each one of you to join us in this introspective time of seeking the Lord through prayer and fasting. As you embark on this journey, take a moment to reflect on the "why" behind our collective commitment. If you're new to fasting, start at your own pace, and explore the resources we've included to support your growth.
May this intentional season of prayer and fasting unveil the deeper layers of God's purpose, guiding us into a year filled with His grace, direction, and transformative ministry.
Planning a Time of Prayer & Fasting
A spiritual time of prayer and fasting can be a transformative experience for those seeking to deepen their faith and connection with God. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:
Know Your Why
The first step in planning your spiritual time of prayer and fasting is understanding your purpose. Define why you are fasting, what your prayers are, and what you hope to achieve through your fast. Perhaps you are seeking clarity on a difficult decision, or you want to deepen your relationship with God. Whatever your reasons, make sure they are clear to you before you begin.
Define Your Terms
It is important to determine the duration of your fast and the type of fast you will be undertaking. Will it be a water-only fast, or will you be abstaining from certain foods? Will you be fasting for a day, a week, or longer? Understanding the details of your fast will help you prepare both physically and mentally.
Get Ready Spiritually
Fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it is a time for spiritual reflection and growth. Spend time in prayer, seeking guidance and wisdom from God. Reflect on your struggles and sins, seeking and offering forgiveness where necessary. Use this time to connect with God and deepen your faith.
Get Ready Physically
Fasting can be challenging, especially if you're not used to it. To make it easier on your body, start preparing several days before your fast begins. Gradually reduce your meal sizes and cut back on high-fat, high-sugar foods. Increase your water intake and eat more fruits and vegetables to help your body detoxify and prepare for the fast.
Create A Schedule
Fasting can be more effective if you have a plan for your day. Decide when you'll spend time in prayer and reading your Bible, and schedule your meals accordingly. It's best to eat simple, nourishing foods during your fast, so plan your meals ahead of time and have healthy snacks on hand if you get hungry.
Plan The End
When your fast is over, it's important to slowly reintroduce your normal food intake. Start with small portions of simple, easy-to-digest foods like soup or fruit, and gradually work your way up to more complex meals. Be gentle with your body and take time to adjust to eating normally again.
Fasting is a personal journey and should be undertaken with caution and care. Seek advice from your spiritual leader and a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. With careful planning and preparation, a spiritual time of prayer and fasting can be a transformative experience.
For additional resources on biblical fasting, visit cru.org
