Why do we fast?
- Jesus fasted before he began his period of ministry (Matthew 4:2) and told his disciples that some things can only be accomplished through fasting and prayer (Mark 9:29).
- Throughout scripture, God did incredible things when people fasted and prayed. Today, he does the same for us at Hope Community Church when we fast and pray together!
- During the fast, we get closer to God and hear him more clearly. This aligns our hearts with his will, and God responds in an especially powerful way.
What occurs during the fast?
- We spend extra time with God in scripture and prayer.
- There are many Bible apps you can download to your device, including audio versions.
- We talk with God throughout the fast and listen for what he might be saying to us.
How do I fast?
Fasting involves refraining from something (food, habits, activities, etc.) that has a significant impact on our daily lives and causes us to turn to God as our source of strength and fulfillment. There are a few different options to consider, and we encourage you to pray for God’s leading as you choose how to participate.
- Daniel Fast - the suggested fast and the one staff and leadership will be doing. It’s a 21-day fast where you remove certain foods and liquids from your diet. We have plenty of information available for this fast.
- Soul fast - refraining from distracting/absorbing habits or activities during this period and instead spending time with God and reconnecting with others in a way that honors him.
- Selective fast - removing certain foods from your diet.
- Partial fast - refraining from food during certain periods of the day.
- Complete fast - only drinking fluids.
- When making a dietary change, please consult your healthcare provider to ensure it is a safe option for you.
We encourage you to pray each day, “God help me to finish strong one more day”. And if you struggle the next day, pray the same prayer. This fast can not only be a transforming time for you but also for someone God wants you to lead.
How should I pray during the fast?
- Pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:17.)
- This does not mean we should do nothing except pray - it means that we should keep our minds and hearts focused on God and his will throughout each day, remembering to talk with him about everything and to depend on him to guide us and supply us with what we need.
- Jesus demonstrated the pattern we should use for prayer. (Matthew 6:9-13)
- Recognize God as our Heavenly Father and that he is holy and worthy of praise simply because of who he is.
- Pray for his will, remembering that his work in our lives on earth is preparation for the life he promises us in heaven.
- Ask him to supply what you need, and pray for the needs of others.
- Ask him for strength to resist temptation, remembering he has promised that there is nothing that can overcome us.
- Praise him for his goodness and power and for being Lord of all things.
- If you don’t already have a consistent prayer life, you can begin by:
- Praying in the morning to give him authority over your day and to ask for his help in honoring him in your actions, words, and thoughts.
- Praying for his direction as things arise throughout your day. Remember to thank him for blessings, ask for his help with challenges, and ask him for forgiveness when you don’t handle things the way he tells us to.
- In the evening, review the day with him and thank him for his help and for being with you.
- You can access the Bible in book, audio, and online formats according to your preference.
- There are several versions of the Bible - choose one that you understand easily.
- Set a time each day that works best for you when you are alert, can focus, and are not rushed.
- Pray that God will open your heart and mind to what he wants to show you in his Word and that he will change you because of it.
- Join a Connect Group:https://myhc.church/about/groups
- Join us for Nights of Worship and Prayer - Wednesdays at 7 pm
- January 10, 17, 24
- Facebook group: MYHC - Fast (you can join through the church’s main Facebook page or any of the MYHC campus pages.)
- Bible reading plans: devotional books, websites, audio books, etc.
- Complete a Bible study, listen to podcasts, etc. focused on spiritual growth and/or focusing on an area of struggle for you.
- Email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) with any questions you may have or support you may need.