Gary and I have experienced an awakening in our spirits as a result of a sermon by Pastor Duane last Sunday morning. Pastor Duane presented a new term (to us) at Church on Sunday morning (orthopractix - spelling?) meaning that it is not enough to believe - your belief must lead you to do the right thing. Christianity is a kingdom being lived out through your life.
He used orthopractice to lead us to consider the practice of fasting in the scripture pointing out that it is a practice in the Old and New Testaments.
Gary and I had to admit that fasting was a practice we read about and knew about; but had never made a regular practice in our lives.
As you study the scriptures you will see that fasting is usually connected to and preceeding some type of break through. Pastor Duane used Mark 9 and the story of the demoniac that came to be healed. The disciples asked why they couldn't heal him - Jesus answered 'this type can only come out by prayer and fasting.'
Fasting is a discipline - a denying of the flesh to connect with your creator. In I Cor. 9:27a Paul explains it this way, 'I (the real you that lives inside the body) discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. ' NLT Your body will try to dominate your life and when you give in you are living by the flesh not the spirit. Duane explained that the body wants to be satisfied and pampered and that the soul wants to be entertained and amused. When you fast you must bring your body and your soul into subjection. They must not have control. The real you chooses to discipline itself. Fasting allows your spirit to become strong. Duane stated that the only way strong addictions or perversions can be overcome is by fasting. As you say NO to your body - the body with SCREAM - 'I'm gonna die - feed me,' as you say NO the spirit rises up.
Isa. 58:7 states that when you fast you are to take pity on the poor. We are not to hide ourselves from anyone or announce that we are on a fast - it is between God and you. It is a time to search your soul and get rid of bitterness and to forgive.
4 reasons for fasting:
1) God puts it on your heart
2) You want to draw near to God and see breakthroughs in your life
3) When it is called for by political leaders
4) When it is called for by spiritual leaders
Seed for thought - words for discussion - feel free to chime in.
How about sharing some of the things that you have fasted. I know that the first thing that most people think of when they hear the term fast they think that it pertains only to not eating. We can fast T.V., computers, activities, etc. Please do share more.
ReplyDeleteWelcome Anonymous! I agree there are other ways to fast .. or to give up in order to focus on God and give Him priority. I like your ideas of giving up t.v., computers etc.
ReplyDeleteThere are so many ways we put things or people above God. It is easy to get side tracked from our purpose for existance .. to Glorify God and do HIS will.
I appreciate your contribution and thanks for stopping by.
May God Bless and KEEP you close!
Susie