Realignment: Three Days With God预览

Day 2: Drawing Near to God

Jesus is the perfect example of being a human; not only did He encourage us to fast, He set the standard. In Matthew 4, Jesus is baptized and then led into the desert for a period of fasting. Over 40 days, Jesus drew near to His Heavenly Father in the desert. During this intense period of prayer and fasting, He was alone. This stood in stark contrast to the Pharisees, the teachers of religious law, who would stand on the street corner and make themselves look gaunt to receive praise from those who observed them fasting.

In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches fasting with an emphasis on sincerity. Fasting, Jesus explains, should not be an outward display of self-righteousness and piety but an intimate, private discipline between you and God. In an era of social media, where sharing everything is expected, Jesus’ teaching challenges us to keep fasting as a personal act of devotion. He reminds us to "wash our face" and "anoint our head" to present ourselves to others with grace, focusing solely on God during this time.

Today, as you begin your fast, focus on making this a time of sacred communion with God. Consider ways to limit distractions. Jesus calls us to avoid making fasting an outward performance, which helps keep our minds focused solely on seeking God. If you want to talk about your fast or feel proud, gently redirect your thoughts to God.

Take this day to cultivate a private sanctuary with God—a place in your heart where no one else can intrude. In this place, offer God your undivided attention and your whole self. Use the quiet moments of hunger or longing as a reminder to turn your heart toward God. This fast is not just about the absence of food but about the presence of God. Use your hunger as a prompt to pray, worship, or read Scripture, focusing your mind and spirit on God.

Spiritual Preparation

This is the day that you set the tone for your fast. Your spiritual fervor is highest on the first day of the fast, which will propel you forward. Ensure you fill your time with something other than alternative activities rather than eating and focus on prayer during mealtimes. Anytime your stomach growls, pray.

Practical Preparation

This will be the easiest day of your fast. Your body will wonder about food but will be satisfied with the water you give it. Drink water whenever you’re hungry, refrain from strenuous exercises, and give your body more rest.

Ask Yourself:

1. Am I tempted to share or display my fasting to others? Why?

2. How can I use moments of hunger to focus on God?

3. What distractions can I remove to make more space for God in my life today?

Prayer Focus:

Ask God to draw you closer to Him in secret, unbroken intimacy. Pray for sincerity and purity in your heart as you fast, desiring nothing more than closeness with Him.