Fasting is often misunderstood, especially within Christian circles. Many of us approach fasting with the mindset of sacrificing something we enjoy—perhaps a favorite food, social media, or that beloved morning coffee—in an attempt to persuade God to act in our favor. This notion can lead to a dangerous way of thinking, as it borders on trying to manipulate God to fulfill our desires.
But what if we reframed our understanding of fasting? Instead of viewing it as a means to get what we want from God, we should see it as something that is fundamentally meant for us. Fasting is not merely about deprivation; it’s about transformation and drawing closer to God.
Isaiah 58:6 beautifully captures this essence, stating, “Here is the sort of fast I want—releasing those unjustly bound, untying the thongs of the yoke, letting the oppressed go free, breaking every yoke.” This scripture emphasizes that fasting is about breaking the bonds of evil, lifting the burdens we carry, and stepping into a deeper relationship with the Lord.
As Christians, we are indeed called to pray and fast. Frequently, we might decide to give up coffee or sweets during a fast. But the real question to consider is: does giving up this item actually create more space for God in our lives? For me, my morning ritual of coffee pairs perfectly with my Bible time. So when I think of fasting, I ask myself what truly draws me closer to God.
Instead of only focusing on giving something up, let’s explore what we can lay down to seek God more intentionally. Could we trade our regular movie nights for well-deserved God time? What about swapping Netflix binges for spending time in His Word? Or perhaps, we could switch our gym time for a peaceful prayer walk?
Imagine if we ventured beyond traditional fasting from food or entertainment. What if, instead of laying down something we enjoy, God is beckoning us to relinquish those things that hold us captive and create distance in our relationship with Him? Have we considered fasting from unforgiveness, bitterness, gossip, or even simple acts of pettiness?
By letting God guide our fasting choices, we allow ourselves to exchange what separates us from Him for a renewed connection with our Creator. This transformative approach can lead to profound spiritual growth, offering us a clearer vision of His purpose for our lives.
As we navigate our fasting journeys, let’s remember: it’s not about what we are giving up, but rather what we are making room for—God, His grace, and His boundless love. So, this season of fasting, let’s aim to truly seek Him and embrace the change He desires for us.
Pastor Tricia's Ramblings 
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