Prayer and Fasting

“However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” (Matthew 17:21)

Fasting is built around prayer. Prayer includes the acts of conversation and intercession. Conversation with God is simply talking to God and giving space for Him to talk back. Intercession is contending for God’s word to manifest on the earth. Without prayer, fasting is just a diet! While your flesh is being denied food, your spirit is able to be fed through His presence in prayer and scripture. To encounter God is to receive your daily bread. Every scripture you meditate on is feeding your spirit. Every word you hear in His presence is feeding your spirit. He is your daily bread! When you are with Him, you are changed by Him and begin to look more like Him!

As areas of your flesh begin to surface, take them to God in prayer. Paul shows us this process in 2 Corinthians 3:16-18. Paul teaches that when we commune with God through prayer, we are beholding His face. As we do this, we start to look like Him and are transformed into His image. As He increases in our lives, we decrease.

Fasting is a way to connect with God, but it has no spiritual benefit if we don’t encounter God in the fast. If neglecting our time with God in a fast, we are no better than the pagans who perform rituals to a mute god. As you fast and pray, keep in mind that Matthew 17:21 highlights the power and authority that results from this discipline. There is a contrast between what the disciples were able to do without prayer and fasting versus what Jesus was able to do through His prayer and fasting. The two must go hand in hand. Without prayer, fasting is just a diet!

PRAYER

Father, speak, I am listening. Teach me to pray. I want to hear your voice. I hunger for your living Word. Reveal to me what you are doing in the spirit wherever I go. Amen.

APPLICATION

Evaluate your daily encounters with God.

Ask yourself

• Am I giving myself enough time to be with God each day?
• Am I hearing God consistently?

Ask God

• Is there something you desire for me to adjust in my encounters with you?
• When would you like to encounter me?
• Where would you like to encounter me?