Nothing but Prayer and Fasting

As Jesus came down from the Mount of Transfiguration, someone informed him that they had brought their son to his disciples to heal and deliver him from an evil spirit. Yet his disciples were unable to do it. This man also told Jesus that the spirit had possessed the boy since childhood, had made the boy mute, and would throw him down to the ground as he foamed at the mouth. The man asked Jesus if he could do anything about it. Jesus made sure the man understood that Jesus could do something about it because all things are possible to those who believe. Jesus then healed the boy, rebuking the unclean spirit, which immediately came out of him. Then he took the boy by his hand and lifted him up.

Jesus’ disciples were stirred to ask him why they could not cast out the evil spirit. Jesus told them that only prayer and fasting could remove this type of spirit. He pointed out that this miracle over the demonic spirit was an act of faith in God, who can do anything. While some translations of this verse say prayer and fasting, others have only prayer.

The ultimate point here in this passage is that faith becomes much more significant with prayer and fasting. This kind of faith will move mountains, will expel demons from people, and will result in mighty miracles to the glory of God. Jesus was very straightforward; this movement of faith comes through prayer and fasting. I call this the supernatural power of prayer and fasting. Right now, you are praying and fasting about some specific matters. Please know that you may be on the verge of seeing God do a miracle. God answers prayer, and he does great things.

Now I realize that you may be on the third day of your fasting journey. This is usually a physically challenging day. If you will continue this fast, on day four, you may physically feel a significant improvement. While this is the usual pattern, each person is different, and their bodies respond uniquely to a fast. God can see you through as you trust him in this prayer and fasting journey.

Jesus, since you can do all things, please answer the prayers I am praying as I fast before you. Amen.