Day Five: Repentance and True Fasting

How does denying oneself through fasting open the door to repentance? Today we'll explore a fast that postponed judgement. This is Cheree. Welcome to Meditating the Word.

It's Day five of our 21 day fast. Today, we're going to talk about Fasting for Repentance and True Fasting. We'll look at an account of fasting in 1st Kings 21 and we'll also look at some Biblical instructions for fasting in Isaiah 58.

DISCLAIMERS:

• Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.  
• I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice. 
• Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first.

Father God, 

We come before You, seeking the true essence of fasting that pleases Your heart. Teach us to fast not merely in form, but in spirit and in truth.

Give us the grace to understand that true fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drink; it is a surrender of our entire being to Your will. May our fast be a time of genuine self-denial, where we lay aside not only our physical cravings but also our selfish desires and ambitions.

Father, help us to develop a spirit of compassion and justice, as we fast. Let our abstinence be coupled with a deeper commitment to acts of love—feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and clothing the naked. Help us to break the chains of injustice and to lift the burdens of those who are oppressed.

In our fasting, let us not be consumed by strife and conflict, but be peacemakers and carriers of Your divine love, bringing reconciliation, healing, and peace in our communities, our homes and in our hearts.

May our sacrifice be acceptable in Your sight, and may our prayers ascend to You like incense.

We pray for the strength to honor You not just in our fasting but in every aspect of our lives. May our actions reflect Your love and mercy, and may our lives be a testament to Your unfailing grace.

In this period of fasting, renew us. Let Your light break forth in our lives like the dawn, and Your guidance lead us on the path of righteousness. May our fasting be a journey towards a deeper, more meaningful relationship with You.

We thank You, Father, for the promises of restoration and joy in obedience. As we commit ourselves to this fast, may we find our delight in You and experience the fullness of Your blessings.

In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray.
Amen

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Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow. 

Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing.

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