Message for September 23, 2012 from Pastor Jerry

“…I humbled myself with fasting; and my prayer would return to my own heart.” Psalm 35:13 (NKJV)

    Fasting is an established act of humility.  In Scriptures it reflects focus on a particular event or situation.  Jesus once told a man that the demon possessing his son comes out only by “prayer and fasting.”

    There is no substitute for sincerity of heart.  Fasting is not meant to impress God but rather to show us our own sincerity about the issue at hand.  “What am I willing to give up in order to focus my energy and fervor?”

    Fasting in the Bible is exclusively in reference to denying oneself food.  It was eating something forbidden that caused man’s fall into sin.  Fasting is the opposite in that it is refusing to eat something that is allowed.  The issue is discipline.  Am I strong enough to control my appetite and sacrifice what I otherwise would enjoy?

    Today fasting can be with food or by giving up something else of pleasure to show we are serious about our actions.  Can you fast by choice with a goal in mind?

    The month of October is being declared “fast” month at New Life for the Nations because of the upcoming Virtuous Woman’s Conference on October 27.  We are asking you to fast something based on your faith and ability.  What you choose to “fast” is up to you.  How much is up to you.  You could fast one meal a week or give up something else, like television or cokes or certain kinds of food.  What you give up is your decision.  It is important that you replace what you give up with prayer and purpose–focusing on your desired outcome, a move of God’s Spirit in you and around you.  

    You are in control of your life.  Use that control to establish an atmosphere of faith.  Who knows what could happen with “prayer and fasting!”  Let’s find out together.

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