| Luke 4:1-2 - The Proper Time
“Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil for forty days. Jesus ate nothing all that time and became very hungry.”
(Luke 4:1-2 NIV)
by Chris
The greatest temptation known to mankind came to Jesus at a time of His fasting. He was also able to conquer such temptation through fasting.
Most people get their idea of fasting from this scripture and connect fasting with no eating for a prolonged period of time.
While I have known some people to do this, I would NOT suggest you attempt this. Especially if you do not have a history of consistent fasting in your past.
Is mentioned in yesterday’s devotional, you can fast in more ways than just food. In addition, you can also set a schedule for any given fast.
Here are some examples of scheduled fasts you can do:
- Morning fast
- Dinner only fast
- Weekday only fast
- Weekend only fast
- One meal a day fast
I hope you get the picture. The main goal is to set a realistic, but challenging fasting schedule that will not put you in harms way.
Remember, God is more concerned with your heart. If you are attached to your cell phone and you decide to fast from it, God will honor the fact that you are putting Him above something so important and “needed” in your life.
As this week progresses I want you to think of a way you will fast. Lets collectively agree to start a 5-day fast next week starting Monday.
Make sure you email me and let me know what fast you are going to participate in and what schedule. I'd like to compile a list and send it out so we can pray for each other's strength in the Lord during the fast.
Here are a couple great suggestions I received yesterday.
Aziz wrote...
- No sex (for married men)
- Withdraw from thoughts of your pursuits (instead listen for direction from God)
- Fast from spending money (only essential bills, tithes, and groceries)
- No television or computer (supplementer with more scripture reading and meditation)
Eric wrote...
- Not saying/thinking anything negative
- Turning someone’s doubts/fears into hope
If you’ve got some to add to the list make sure you hit reply and send them my way.
I believe if we all get on one accord with prayer and fasting we will see a mighty move of God in our lives. Strongholds will be broken, and we will find renewed strength in the Lord.
Friend, you’ve been reading these devotionals long enough. Now it’s time to start putting the scripture into action.
Will you join me?
Lets pray...
“Father, we offer our lives to you today. Reveal to us how to fast. We want to show you that we honor you over everything else in our lives. You are the most important relationship we have Father. Give us the wisdom to what areas in our lives we need to withdrawal from. Lord we want more of you and we are willing to show you through our acts of fasting and prayer. We love you Lord. Amen”
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