Hey .
What a great week this has been! Our times of prayer, fasting, and worship together were really powerful, and I experienced the Father's grace as we sought Him together.
However, if I'm honest, I was really hungry!
If this was your first (or maybe hundredth) time fasting, you might have struggled a bit. It's not easy. But, that's the point. Through fasting, we deny ourselves something vital (food) to draw closer to what's even MORE important (Jesus).
So, I thought I would share some helpful suggestions for the next time you fast.
First, identify a purpose for your fasting. Are you fasting for greater intimacy with Jesus? Fasting for your marriage? A better job? Your kids? Healing? Give your fasting a purpose, and be sure to pray during your fasting time.
Next, identify your "weak times" and reduce possible temptations. If lunchtime at work is a weak time, then go out to your car to pray at that time instead of sitting in the cafeteria while everyone around you eats. If your weak time is at night while watching TV, go to bed early, or spend some time reading instead.
Drink a LOT of water. Not only is water excellent for you, it also fills your stomach and helps reduce the feeling of hunger. Keep some with you wherever you go, and keep on chugging!
Lastly, journal. I love to write letters to Jesus when I'm fasting. Releasing the mental burden of always thinking about what I'm going to eat next, how I'm going to prepare it, and how I need to clean up after it, helps to free my thoughts to focus on the King. Some very meaningful prayers have come out of my fasting times and, if you spend some focused time writing your prayers, I'm sure you'll encounter God in new ways too.
I hope these help. I'm praying that you encounter Jesus in fresh ways as we approach resurrection Sunday!
See you Sunday!
Living a passionate mission,
Lee Bezotte
Lead Pastor, Mercy Vineyard Church
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