Fast and Pray!
Dear Friend,Jesus said to us, "Again I tell you that if two of you on Earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in Heaven. For where two or three come together in My name, there am I in the midst of you." (Matthew 18:19-20)For over two thousand years the church has historically honored the forty days prior to Easter by entering into a season of "fasting and prayer." I truly believe that in this moment, we need to rediscover the reality of the power of fasting and prayer.Over the years I have asked those with whom I worship to enter this journey with me. We have seen God respond to us with salvations, healing and many breakthroughs.Yesterday I encouraged The Father's House to intensify their focus with me. I am using this blog to communicate to my fellow Christ-Followers and to encourage us on this journey. I hope that whether you are a part of our Church family or you are part of our extended family, you will join us in this seasonWe live in a very busy world that is bombarding us with information and with all kinds of news. Our world is crowded with voices seeking our attention. In the midst of these voices there is still One Voice that we must hear. The Lord has encouraged us, "to be still and know."In my life there have been many times when I took time to "fast and pray" not to impress or to coerce, but to quiet my own soul. These seasons were moments when I attempted to loosen my grip on the things of the natural world and tried to intentionally strengthen my grip on the things of God's Kingdom.There are many people who have turned their lives over to Christ, but for whatever reason they have lost their passion for Him. I have had those moment in my life. We all know how easily the things of life can slowly steal our focus.It is through "fasting and prayer" that we can rekindle our passion for Christ. It is through "transformed" people that other people can discover Christ.You and I can agree in prayer for others. That's right, if you and I will re-focus our lives on Christ, He will work through us to reach others with the Gospel.Please take time to join me on this adventure! I am praying with you and for you.Pastor QuintinPray for transformation in our lives•That our passion and love for Christ makes a difference to those in our circle. (2 Corin. 5:20; Col. 1:28)•That we would love like Jesus and be shaped more into His image. (Phil. 3:12; Gal. 2:20)•That we would be faithful to run the race marked out for us. (Heb. 12:1; 2 Pet. 1:3)Pray for transformation in our families•That God will renew marriages, heal families and bring them back to Him. (Is. 61:1; Eph. 5:25-26) •That God will open the hearts of family and friends to hear the message of hope. (Rom. 10:17) •That this Easter season we will see thousands put their hope in Christ. (John. 14:6; Matt. 18:12-14)Pray for transformation in our region•For the mission of the Church to be strengthened (2 Corin. 5:18-21; 1 Tim. 4:13)•For each of our churches and our communion to reach their region and beyond (Matt 5:13; 2 Chron. 7:14)•For Israel and all our outreach initiatives (Matt. 5:6; Luke 10:27)
Other Resources
- Daniel Fast: The Daniel Fast is a great model to follow and one that is extremely effective for spiritual focus based on the book of Daniel, Chapter 10.
- YouVersion: This is a suggested devotional that includes several passages about fasting to encourage you with daily Bible reading, reflection and prayer. You can also download the free mobile app for YouVersion.
- Bookstore: Stop by our bookstore for resources and tools to help you on this journey.