timelygospelpro 
The Bible tells us that God sent His word to heal and deliver His people (James 5:15). Whenever we encounter God’s word, it transforms us and lifts us to a higher level of spiritual understanding. This morning, let’s open our hearts and receive the message with meekness.
The book of 2 Timothy 3:15 tells us that scripture is able to make us wise and lead us to salvation. If you’re seeking a specific kind of salvation or breakthrough, ask the Lord to open your heart to His word and grant you the grace to put it into practice.
The Bible makes it clear that the same word sent to heal and deliver others can also benefit us. However, Hebrews 4:2 warns us that the word won’t benefit us if we don’t mix it with faith. Ask the Lord this morning to help you believe and receive His word with meekness, putting it into action.
To get the most out of this message, I’d like to break it down into four parts:
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Why We Fast: Fasting is not a human invention. God himself calls on His people to fast (Joel 2:12-14). Fasting is a sign of seriousness and focus, a time of consecration and separation to seek God’s presence. Many people view fasting as a church program they can complete carelessly. However, true fasting is a deeper spiritual connection where you invite God into your life for a period of focused attention. The Bible mentions fasting in several places, including 1 Corinthians 9:27 and Ezra 8:21.
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The Benefits of Fasting: Fasting is a sign of maturity in the Kingdom of God (Ecclesiastes 10:17). It allows us to prioritize spiritual growth and sensitivity to God’s leading. Just as we need physical food to function, we also need spiritual nourishment. Fasting can help us break free from the control of our appetites and desires, allowing us to focus on God. Second Corinthians 6:5 lists fasting as one of Paul’s credentials as an apostle.
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Mastering Your Appetite: The very first man, Adam, failed a test of his appetite (Genesis 3). Even Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights, demonstrating the importance of controlling our desires (Matthew 4:1-2). If we don’t master our appetites, we become slaves to them. Our pursuit in life shouldn’t be driven by desires, but by a desire to follow God’s will. Fasting can help us prepare for moments of temptation and strengthen our resolve to choose God’s path.
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What Fasting Is and How to Do It: Fasting is simply the ability to abstain from desires to seek God’s face. If we can’t set aside desires to connect with God, it shows they have priority in our lives. A true fast is not just about food; it’s about suspending your desires to prioritize God for a season. This allows you to grow in your relationship with Him. Fasting is also a time to show benevolence to others (Isaiah 58:6-10). True fasting goes beyond outward actions and reflects a change in our hearts. Fasting with a heart full of malice or wickedness won’t be recognized by God. Finally, fasting is a time of humbling ourselves before God (Deuteronomy 8:3). When we separate ourselves from worldly distractions, it allows us to hear God’s voice more clearly. Fasting can also be a time to address any unresolved fleshly issues that hinder our walk with God (Galatians 5:17).
