Horizon Church August Bible Reading Plan: Prayer & Fastingنموونە

What is Fasting?
Ps Tim Biasetto
Fasting is a powerful Christian discipline in which a person abstains from some or all food for a period of time, while intentionally making space to hunger and thirst after God through prayer and contemplation.
Spiritual disciplines are not an end in themselves—they are a means to an end. That end is increased intimacy and communion with God.
These disciplines help us create space for His presence to bring transformation in our lives.
Fasting is powerful because it creates a heightened awareness of God’s presence in our daily lives. It also reminds us that we are not at the mercy of our natural urges—we have been given the capacity for self-control.
During a fast, we become acutely aware of our body’s wants and desires. Fasting is a conscious decision to deny the flesh and focus instead on our spiritual hunger. We turn to prayer rather than open the fridge; we become aware of His presence rather than distract ourselves with a meal. Each hunger pang becomes a reminder and opportunity to turn again to Jesus and receive from Him.
Fasting is not a hunger strike in which we make demands of God. It’s not a form of penance for our sins, or a way to earn His favour. It is an opportunity to humble ourselves, prioritise His presence, and walk in step with the Spirit each day.
Jesus is our example in all things. In Matthew 4, before facing the enemy’s test, Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. The Spirit knew Jesus needed to be spiritually sharp, strong, and confident in His identity. By the time the devil came to tempt Him 40 days later, Jesus was ready. Though physically hungry, He was spiritually prepared—sharp, strong, and sure of who He was. He walked perfectly in the will of God, and the enemy could not subdue Him.
Fasting, when partnered with prayer and contemplation, will sharpen and strengthen you spiritually. It will prepare you for what is ahead and draw you closer to the One who loves you and desires to walk intimately with you.
There are a few ways you can approach fasting, and many fasts in the Bible can be used as helpful guides. While fasting usually involves abstaining from food, it can also extend to areas such as social media, television, or other distractions.
Our team has created some helpful guidance around fasting, which you can find at hz.church/prayerandfasting.
We strongly advise consulting your doctor before beginning a food fast, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. Seek medical advice if you have any concerns while fasting.
I’m excited to see all that God will do in and through you during this powerful time of prayer and fasting.
Prayer Points:
- Spend time in worship, focusing your attention on Jesus and committing the next 14 days to Him.
- Ask God for direction and clarity in how you will participate.
- Seek His will and purpose for your fast.
کتێبی پیرۆز
دەربارەی ئەم پلانە

Ready to deepen your connection with God and experience His presence in a fresh way? This devotional guides you through daily reflections and scripture focused on prayer and fasting, helping you renew your spirit and refocus your heart. Take time each day to listen, reflect, and invite God’s transforming power into your life. Join this journey with expectancy, and let God meet you in new and life-giving ways.
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