Fast and Pray

You either read this title and said, "Ooo, I need this one," or "Boring, next" (in which case you may not have read this far and I get it). For those who practice fasting, I don't think the challenge of it is discussed enough. I have struggggggled with fasting in the past and it's still something that I am developing more. However, I had to share a major win in this department because God taught me so much through it.

"So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and He answered our prayer." Ezra 8:23

I've always understood fasting as a sacrifice we make in order to show our dedication and commitment to God. Little did I know it was for us, like everything that He calls us to do, not for Him. He doesn't need our sacrifice, we do.

I recently completed a three day liquid fast, and for someone who just worked their way up to 24 hour fasts, this was a major accomplishment; not just because I did it, but because of the clarity and revelation I received. Yes, getting it done is a great mark of spiritual and physical discipline, but the reward of hearing from God is far greater.

What I had to realize is, when God calls you to it, He'll get you through it. Sometimes we do a corporate fast with a group of people like our church, family or friend group, and without God-ordained parameters you may struggle. Sometimes you may say I'm going to fast this particular day every week or every month. However, if God does not call you to it, it's going to be a battle. I had to learn that God sets the standards and the timeframe for fasting.

This 3-day fast had been on my spirit since I heard about it from Morgan Tracy J, leader of His Daughter's Closet. The foundation of the fast came from the book of Esther where Queen Esther fasted for three days for the salvation of her people, the Jews.

Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:16

When Morgan announced the Esther fast in February, my spirit told me I should do it, but my flesh said, I dunno about that. Three days is a long time without food, and I would be traveling at the time. However, I kept seeing details about the fast and being urged to commit. When my trip got extended, I felt the nudge that, "I can do this." And I did. God's grace was so sufficient. Of course there were moments I got hungry and thought about caving, but I resisted and I felt good. No headaches, no nausea. I felt better than I did when I was eating. Not to mention, I became so clear about the direction of my purpose and career. I felt like, "Man, I wish it could be like this all of the time." I'm not finna fast forever, but discipline in every area can provide this same opportunity to unblock your hearing.

Some key takeaways for me when it comes to fasting are to:

I. Keep it to yourself. When you are around people-- family, co-workers, friends-- it can be tempting to let them know you're fasting, especially if they are offering you food or just wondering why you haven't eaten. However, if you are able to refrain from telling others, it can keep their ideas about it out of your head, and allows it to truly be about you and God. This is your time to connect with Him.

"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do... your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Matthew 6:16-18

II. Stay saturated in the Word of God and His presence. Throughout the day, be sure to pray, spend time in worship, read the Bible, read devotionals or Bible plans, review church notes or revelations God has given you, and write down the new revelations you receive. Fasting is not just about giving up food; it is about separating from the familiar to communicate with God in order to access clarity and focus.

III. Drink water. Esther didn't eat or drink, but if you're not ready for all of that, be sure to hydrate. During my fast, I drank water and tea.

IV. Have tunnel vision. See yourself making it to your goal. I kept reminding myself of how disappointed I'd be to make it this far and quit. That's not to say to beat yourself up if you don't make it. God provides us with second, third, and more chances. But, keeping your eye on the prize will definitely help you withstand the temptation to throw in the towel.

V. If you require accountability, it is okay to ask someone to fast with you. In this season, fasting was something I needed to accomplish on my own. Many of the people in my life will make excuses for me and tell me it's okay to make alterations to my goal, so I knew I needed to fly solo on this mission. But, if accountability fuels you, go ahead and elect a disciplined, trusted individual to help you on your course.

Fasting is a discipline that I plan to make a lifestyle. Fasting from food while praying on a regular basis is an excellent source of communication with God. I also believe that sacrificing habits and dependencies on a regular basis are needed to ensure we stay connected to the source and aren't operating in our flesh.

Sound off in the comments and let me know if there's anything you've fasted for and some tips to succeeding in your commitment to sacrifice.

-Renee Nicole