Harvest Renewal Church
Richmond, VA
January 23, 2015
2015 SEASON OF PRAYER & FASTING


Fasting
Pastor Jason on Fasting - How to go deep
Pastor Jason shares about this season we are entering into..... a time of growing in our intimacy with God and seeking to be guided solely by Holy Spirit. It is a time when we act purposely, demonstrating our longing for a deeper and more powerful relationship with Jesus. Fasting allows our spirits to become uncluttered and more focused on receiving from Him.

THIS WEEK'S BLOG MESSAGE FROM PASTOR DOUG ON FASTING PREPARATIONS FOR SPIRIT, SOUL AND BODY IS BELOW........
Preparations for Fasting

Our 14 days of prayer and fasting will begin this coming Sunday, January 25. Many of us will start on Sunday while I'm sure others will participate in some way during these next 14 days. I want to take a few moments and address some important instructions how we need to prepare ourselves as we step into this exciting time of giving ourselves to God. It doesn't really matter the nature of your fast or the length, it is so important how we begin. I would like to address preparing our spirit and soul first and then mention some important reminders concerning the preparation of our body for a season of fasting.

 

Preparing our Spirit and Soul:

As we begin to prepare for our time of fasting and prayer there six important principles to consider.

 

1.    Fasting begins with an awareness of our need to do it.

Hopefully you have sensed a tug in your heart from God that He is drawing you to seek Him for any number of reasons. Your reasons may be varied but what is important is that you are responding with all of your heart because you need and love Him.

2.    Develop a clear vision and purpose

Have you determined your purpose behind your fasting and what you hope to see accomplished in your life? Remember primarily fasting is to humble ourselves that we may draw near to God. Secondarily your vision for fasting may be for healing, breakthroughs, wisdom, intimacy with God, salvations of friends, etc.

3.    Be assured that God is a rewarder of those who seek Him

In Hebrews 11:16 it tells us to expect that God will reward his children when we seek him by faith. Be convinced that your season of fasting and prayer will transform your life for all eternity and that when you change, others around you will begin to change.

4.    Determine the kind of fast you are entering into.

It is important to know God's direction concerning the type of fast you will do. Be careful not to fast in a certain way just because someone else is. Never compare how you fast with others. Varied fasts may be:

A.     Total Fast.

A total fast is where no food nor liquid or water is consumed. This type of fast was observed only in times of extreme crisis.

B.     Normal Fast.

A normal fast is one in which no food was eaten and only water was consumed. Great care should be given if fasting for long periods of time.

C.     Daniel Fast.

A Daniel fast is one that restricts the diet to vegetables, fruits and water. I also included diluted juices. No breads, meats, desserts, sweets or sweet drinks (sodas) are usually consumed

D.    Partial Fast.

A partial fast is a restriction of certain types of foods and drinks, usually more foods are permitted compared to the Daniel fast. This form of fasting allows for more variety.

E.     Nonfood Fast.

This type of fast may accompany other types of fast or may stand-alone. A nonfood fast deals with other types of life restriction other than food. This may include certain types of activities, television, video games, movies, etc.

 

5.    Determine the length of the fast and when to start.

The type of fast that you choose will many times determine the length of your fast. A Partial or Daniel fast can usually be done over a longer period of time, usually several weeks. Where a Normal fast would probably be a shorter time period especially if you are working during your fast. A Total fast should never go beyond two days and I would never recommend if you have not fasted regularly.

6.    Prepare your heart and examine your motives by cultivating a heart of confession and repentance.

As you begin your fast ask God that He would examine your heart so any sins may be confessed and repentance may occur.  Remember as we humble ourselves before God, the Holy Spirit will draw us into His presence and sin will be exposed. Unforgiveness, a critical spirit, anger, lust, self-destructive behavior, pride, etc. will be revealed as we turn to God with a humble heart. Confess, repent, and don't let condemnation or accusation from the enemy to fill your heart. I John 1:9 testifies, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

 

Preparing our Physical Bodies:

Just as it necessary to prepare our soul and spiritual man so that the fast will be a success, it is equally important to prepare our physical body. I always encourage people depending on the length of your fast to restrict foods and especially caffeinated drinks gradually over a couple of days before you enter into the actual fast. Be sure to drink lots of water as it helps not only in hydration but also it washes toxins out of your body.

 

If you are fasting food over an extended period of time the hunger pains will usually diminish after about 3 days. Listen to your body, rest appropriately and curtail strenuous activities especially if you're fasting an extended time. Let me extend one final encouragement. Don't allow any type of failure to keep you from pursuing all that God desires to do during this season of 14 days.  During fasting I usually experience an increase of Satan's attack over my walk with God. Press through!  If you give in to food during your fast, shake off any guilt or condemnation and recommit your intent to God and reenter your fasting period. I know God has great things in store for us as a result of our church fast! Just for you to be aware, during our period of fasting the pastors of Harvest Renewal Church will be bringing video blogs of encouragement and practical instruction weekly through our Harvest Happenings.