Hidden Forces in Fastingعينة

### Depending On God The literal meaning in Hebrew for the word fast is to ‘cover one’s mouth’ which is usually interpreted to mean refraining from food. It seems wrong to not eat food for an extended period of time. It is counterintuitive until we put God into the picture and ask ourselves, “ Who or what do I need to put first in my life ?” The answer is God. Fasting is a sacrifice. It means giving up something you would normally have and enjoy. As Christians, we must rely on God and understand that everything comes from Him. Matt Carter says that fasting is a great reminder of everything He has done for us . [ Listen to Matt ](https://makingyourlifecount.org/player.php?ref=f13.20191202.3) --- God’s heart moves when we call out to Him. Fasting redirects our focus and creates a dependence on God. This dependence strengthens our relationship with Him and opens our eyes to our need . Fasting is a way to remember our relationship with the Father. It becomes a way to praise Him by giving up something unfulfilling in comparison to His love for us. ### Apply * When is the last time you felt you had to completely rely on God? * What can you fast so that you are reminded of your dependence on God? ## Depending On God Fasting reminds us of the great blessings and gifts He has given us. Through fasting, we are reminded of our dependence on Him. The literal meaning in Hebrew for the word fast is to ‘cover one’s mouth’ which is usually interpreted to mean refraining from food. It seems wrong to not eat food for an extended period of time. It is counterintuitive until we put God into the picture and ask ourselves, “Who or what do I need to put first in my life?” The answer is God. Fasting is a sacrifice. It means giving up something you would normally have and enjoy. As Christians, we must rely on God and understand that everything comes from Him. Matt Carter says that fasting is a great reminder of everything He has done for us. [IMAGE CONTENT] There is an audio attachment for this devotional. You can [ download the audio ](https://plan-audio-cdn.youversionapi.com/uploads/supplemental-audio/cead5726-5c62-42fc-8714-73e19fbcb868.mp3) if you wish. God’s heart moves when we call out to Him. Fasting redirects our focus and creates a dependence on God. This dependence strengthens our relationship with Him and opens our eyes to our need. Fasting is a way to remember our relationship with the Father. It becomes a way to praise Him by giving up something unfulfilling in comparison to His love for us. ### Apply * When is the last time you felt you had to completely rely on God? * What can you fast so that you are reminded of your dependence on God?