Day 3: What Does Fasting Do?
The question “What does fasting do?” is one I have been asked more times than I can remember. My answer is always the same: Fasting and prayer bring you closer to God. While that may be a brief answer, it is by no means simplistic.
Fasting is a choice. Fasting is not a requirement.
Whenever a believer chooses to begin a spiritual fast for one day or for several days, he or she makes a choice to break out of the routine in order to draw closer to God. I chose to develop a lifestyle of prayer and fasting over twenty-five years ago, and I do not know of anything that has been more powerful in my Christian life. It is true in my personal experience and it is true for our church, as evidenced by the multitude of powerful testimonies that stem from our annual corporate fast at Free Chapel.
I am more convinced than ever that fasting is a gateway through which God releases His supernatural power into our lives. The choice is ours: we can either open that gateway or ignore it and keep on going in our routines. For the past ten years our church has committed to an annual corporate twenty-one-day fast in January. With each passing year, I become more certain that this annual fast, set aside to honor God with the “first” of our year, is truly part of His design and calling. People all over America and the far reaches of the world are beginning to see that fasting is not just for a select few—but that God is a rewarder of all who diligently seek Him.
January 8, 2013 | Permalink67 Responses to Day 3: What Does Fasting Do?
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Andi says:
Thanks for sharing fasting insights on the net, I have always subscribed to all your updates, joinging the fasting movement from South Africa since the past 3 years. God bless you
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stacey says:
Seeking your will for my life, Lord. Standing in the gap for unsaved family members that need salvation. Praying for those who are hurting, in need of a blessing from you Father. Draw me nearer, draw me closer…
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Terri says:
So much the prayer of my heart also. Our new pastor led us to pray for something that only God can do. During this fast, I so long to know Him more and pray that He will move mightily in my unsaved children and grandchildren lives.
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Muno Mulauzi says:
Thank you for this. It really encourages!!!! Amen.
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Florent says:
amen amen
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Leda says:
I love you Jesus! I look forward to what you will do in our nation and in my personal life.
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Michelle says:
I truly needed to hear these words today. This is an encouragement to press toward the mark for the prize… (Philippians 3:14, KJV)
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Lisa H says:
Amen,He indeed does reward those who seek him in spirit and in truth! Blessing to everyone that you diligently seek God during this fast.
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Melquicedec Viveros says:
hi my name is melqicedec viveros, and i fasting becouse i belive God is real and He can make changes in my life, and want to put Him firts ever single day for all my entire life.
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Neliswa Gqabe says:
Ever since I joined Jentezen Franklin 2 years ago, my fasting life have never been the same. I am not sure how I landed in this website but thank Jehovah I did. The best is yet to come in my life. It is my 3rd day and I can testify the good of the Lord in my life.
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Pastor Andre Williams-Detroit says:
As I sat this morning around 5:30, I began to meditate on the fast and how to start my worship. Nothing was coming, no words were sufficient to describe the anticipation;. thank you did not seem good enough.. Suddenly, my past mistakes came before me, captivating me into a train of thought patterns that I did not want to be in.
Then I remembered the words from day 1 “if all the enemy can do is bring your past before you, he’s run out of new things.” Those words triggered a new pattern of thinking. Now day 3 rejoicing begins. WOW! what a way to start the day. Blessings and, honor and, glory and power forever and ever.
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DM Carroll says:
I am glad to know that fasting is a choice. When I choice to do something I know I am putting my heart with it.
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pat says:
This morning I read psalms 105 which shows how throughout time God gave his people during hard times on the earth Great Grace and favour. And there was a great wealth transfer to his people. Amen. I would hear this from ministers but never could see this spiritually for me but praise God during this fast my eyes were open. May we all see Gods word afresh as we fast amen. Praise the lord for his Great Grace and Favour…..
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I need help in narrowing my fast when it comes to time spent. In prayer, everything and everybody seems to want some of my time when I begin to fast.
Marshelle -
Elizabeth says:
This year satan is really trying to crush me with so many problems and taking away my time for Him but I am encouraged to go against all odds with all of you with whom I am fasting and with all the help and encouragement we get by listening to Pastor Franklin. Thank you Pastor.
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Mari says:
I pray for God’s blessing to be released in all of our lives. Fasting may not be easy but I know it’s worth it.
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Suzan Yeluri says:
Pastor Franklin,
I’m Suzan from India.I have joined the corporate fast.God has already started to answer my prayers but I want more of Him than anything else. -
Antoinette says:
Greetings brothers and sisters in Christ. I just joined in the 21 day fast yesterday. Please pay my strength in The Lord that I would be able to continue this fasting unto completion and also that my family members would be willing to join in as well. Thank you and God bless you all with answered prayers.
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Barbara Reese says:
Praise God for day three!! God has already began to do things in my life and even though my body cries to eat, I stay focused on why I am doing this and I know that it is all worth it…God bless everyone!!
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Mercedes says:
Thank You so much for sharing?
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Grace says:
I have been fasting for a while during my walk with christ, it was a result of my twin boys, and so much more, but I have also learned and are reminded that at times God may not answers so prayer even with fasting and this is because he has his reasons. Look at David.
Grace
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Patricia says:
He is a rewarder of those who dilligent seek him. I pray that all of us who chose to fast will dilligent seek him, not for the reward, but to seek him, then he will reward us. God Bless each and everyone!!!
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denise flynn says:
Because of your book, “Fasting”, a friend told me about, I’m hooked. Year 3 of the First Fruits Fast. Thank you Pastor Jentezen! I’ve been spreading the word, also in my book entitled “Marry Me!”. Bless you. You’re one of my favorites!
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Lori-Ann says:
I want to share what God is doing so early in my fast. I intentionally pray daily for each of my four children. My daughter (20) has been struggling with her faith and here is what she posted on FB on 1/3/13, only 3 days into the fast…
“I’m going to make 2013 my year. I’m going to pursue my relationship with my Lord and Savior, which I’ve been slack on. I’m going to be 100% comfortable in my own skin regardless of the situation. I’m going to be the best sister, daughter, and friend that I can possibly be and set a good example for anyone’s life that I cross paths with.”
I am continuing to Praise God for His work on her precious heart. I know when someone states something like that that the enemy will be trying to stop her from growing in her relationship with Christ so I will continue to pray for her daily,
Yesterday I was listening to music and heard an amazing song that I truly believe God led me to that I was to share with her.
It is by Sidewalk Prophets. It’s called “Help Me Find It” Here are the words…
I don’t know where to go from here
It all used to seem so clear
I’m finding I can’t do this on my ownI don’t know where to go from here
As long as I know that You are near
I’m done fighting
I’m finally letting goI will trust in You
You’ve never failed before
I will trust in You
Chorus
If there’s a road I should walk
Help me find it
If I need to be still
Give me peace for the moment
Whatever Your will
Whatever Your will
Can you help me find it
Can you help me find itI’m giving You fear and You give faith
I giving you doubt
You give me grace
For every step I’ve never been aloneEven when it hurts, You’ll have Your way
Even in the valley I will say
With every breath
You’ve never let me goI will wait for You
You’ve never failed before
I will wait for YouChorus
I lift my empty hands (come fill me up again)
Have Your way my King (I give my all to You)
I lift my eyes again (Was blind but now I see)
‘Cause You are all I needChorus
Looking forward to what God has in store over the next 40 days!!!
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This is my first year doing the fast with Free Chapel and I am so happy I am. Only on day 3 and my UTI I have had for a week and 1/2 is GONE! Very existed going forward……
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masood pervaiz says:
iam very glad that i have joined this fast with
free chapel this year also. and this is my third year. i am from Pakistan and iam very glad to have the teaching on fasting while i live in a muslim country. -
Debra Madden says:
Wow I started the fast and it seems like things are coming against me. but at the same time. I feel God giving me what I need to push though. when I first started the fast like every year I make my list of things I want to pray about. I made my list this time and I felt like I need to pray for God to empty me not what I had on my list. I hope every one is doing well today and to God be the Glory.
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judy says:
amen,god has truly moved in my life thougth fasting,read mark 10-45-52 amd you will see the faith that the blind man had in jesus,
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Gabriela Trevino says:
These first three days have been tough for my first fast Ever and “King Stomach” has been wanting to take over, but I have been rebuking it each time! I love reading these daily journals, because they have been helping me with my fast each day. God is Great!
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Lara says:
Thanks Pastor Franklin for your obedience to God and committment to fasting. Yes, I believe fasting also prepares a believer to face the enemy and overcome battles and spiritual attacks by reason of the annointing.It’s His anointing (presence) that breaks the yoke.
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anointedchild says:
I agree that fasting is a gateway to experiencing Gods supernatural power as we realize our oneness with our Creator. I really do enjoy getting out of self and worldly concerns and being in a higher state of being. I pray that Gods desire is realized and fulfilled through and for us all brothers and sisters… stay strong!
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Sandra says:
Thank you Pastor Franklin for bringing fasting into the forefront of our Christian life in the USA. There has not been much emphasis on this but your annual 21-day fasting is doing so and I thank the Lord for you all. I pray that all of us who have been part of it before and those who are joining for the first time will be blessed and our desire to draw nearer to the Lord be met.
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Tracy says:
I realized that fasting is a choice and that is why I altered my fast so that I would not become weak and fail. My initial fast was to go without food..but it immediately became apparent that I would probably fail and become depressed and sad over my failure. So I. Decided to give up smoking…this serves two pu
rposes..it allows me to keep my promise to God and succeed and it will improve my health..its a win win. Through prayer I will continue to cut back on food and achieve a healthier life style wow improving my relationship with the God. -
Sandra says:
Aman. I thank God and you Pastor Franklin for bringing fasting to my attention. It has truly blessed my life since I started including it in my spiritual journey.
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neo chipo says:
halleya
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Heather says:
Fasting does bring you closer to God. My husband and I have been fasting for two days. We got a late start. Already we are being attacked with sickness in the house. I woke up and started to complain and I heard God gently say to my spirit “this is an opportunity for you.” I sat down in my chair and thought about Jesus being hit with the whip on His back. I usually spend time thinking on this when we are fighting sickness. This time it was different. I have a picture in my head of what it looks like, but God showed me a greater picture of Christ’s suffering. It was so powerful I had chills all over and the pain in my neck from sinus problems left instantly. I have fasted many times to get something from God.. but I know now that it is just to be closer to Him. To reflect Him more and hear Him more clearly. There are many things I want, but If I get none of these things I will still worship my loving God for all He is and has already done for me and my family. God is so Good!! May we all draw nearer to our Lord through this set apart time of fasting.
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Vernize Patton says:
I plan on giving God all I have in this fast! Leaning not to my understanding, but acknowledging Him in all things. I am truly blessed every time I do the yearly fast. I Thank God for the oppotuinty. This year I am believing Gods Healing for my husband. He has been diagnosed with hepatitis C. Thank you Lord in advance.
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Minette English says:
Amen, thank you for making me part of the fasting. I do appreciate it, to me it is a life changing thing God is my strength and my salvation. Thank you pastor J Franklin be blessed in Jesus Name amen.
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Rajneet says:
Amen!! Fasting a choice and my husband is fasting today even for one day but he sees my faith and wants a closer relationship with God. Fasting is about choice and not a requirement..I believe it!!!!
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Dawn Davis says:
This material that you post is so helpful for any kind of person from any background to understand the benefits of fasting. It is also great that you speak about how to do it in a healthy way during and coming off it the fast. We were in the Russian/Greek Orthdox church for many years and never did I hear any explanation as to why they were fasting all the time. We are thrilled to join you in this fast!
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Vickie says:
I thank God for this moment of fasting and prayer so that the inner hunger of our heart for an intimate closeness to our Daddy Heavenly Father shall be met by Him alone amen.
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evelynsathya says:
yes and amen heb11:6 yes, He is a Rewarder. this was always my sruggle to believe if he is for me.. now i know through fasting and prayer for the last couple years as the Lord has strengthened me to realize , and know. thankx be to our God who is never late …
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I have had the FLU for 10 days now but this is the 3rd. day of the Daniel fast and I am feeling better now. Praise the Lord.
This is my 6th. year doing the Daniel Fast .
The other 49 weeks of the year is worth doing the Daniel Fast for 3 weeks in January. Thank you Kingdom connection for your support. -
Dawn says:
I pray that all that I’ve seen here is true for me too as I join the 21 day fast that our church is also corporately participating in. I am looking for answers, comfort and assurance in many areas of my own life and that of my family. The spirit is willing but the flesh tends to be weak. I’m looking to change that arrangement. -Dawn G
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Cynthia says:
Yes, I believe fasting is a choice but as believers ,if we need that intimacy with God then we need to go on fast to draw closer to Him. Fasting also helps us grow spiritually and we will hear His voice often and clearly.
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Titilia says:
Fasting as a lifestyle is my goal for 2013 and onwards?
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Arek POLAND says:
I just wanted to share quickly that I have started on my 2013 Fast as of January 1st. Three day complete fast (only water, juice) and the rest – Daniel’s Fast. I want to share wit you all, that there were moments when I felt a bit nervous, irritated and anxious, but above it all I know deep down in my spirit, that no matter what I feel like I am certain where the Fast is leading me. It is a one step at a time to get closer to my God ! Praise the Lord for the way I am walking to be closer Him, and I know that He will reward the attitude of faith and expectation.
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Pamela Drake says:
Thank God for Free Chapel Church. I believe God for ones in the Body of Christ. I thank God for a eye opener today. I was with my son today,, as we were riding in the car, I began to understand the relationship between him and I. I believe in spirit God gave me an awesome revelation. I cannot see things the same anymore.. I walk by faith not by sight.
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Hannah says:
Amen! I choose to seek him “early in the morning” because I believe He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
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Alberta says:
Day 14 for me on my 40 day fast and going strong I don’t feel compelled to eat even though I see food. I need a breakthru more than I need food so pray for me during this time and I will pray for you all.
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K Carroll says:
God is truly a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. He says if you seek me with your whole heart you will find Me. Let us continue to seek Him whole heartedly as we continue to fast and pray.
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Nathalie says:
Everything that The Lord says; it is Yes and Amen! The Word of God is clear like spring water. Thank you man of God, for opening our eyes to see even clearer. May God be with each one of us, as we boarded on the 2013/Fast. May His Grace, abound. May great testimonies flows from each home.
The enemy has been defeated, O death, where is your sting?
Like Saul our eyes has been open.
The Bible says; you shall know the truth and it shall set you FREE!
Blessed be the Name of The Lord. Amen! -
Tenille says:
Here i am God…
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Christine says:
Yes, I have experienced Gods miracles during fasting. God has revealed Himself to me during my fast and I am waiting to see what He will revealcthus time. He sees our hearts.
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Pam says:
Humble me Lord as I do this fast for you.
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shirlene jackson says:
i thank GOD for you and your ministry.i watch you as often as i can.i want to do the21 day fast but does not have money to buy the kit.please send me a fast copy to my E-mail address.GOD bless YOU.
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Angela Lopez says:
There is something about day three that always seems to be the hardest….whether it is a partial or full fast. Day 3 all but kills me….and this day 3 I fell off the wagon. Praying God’s forgiveness and getting back up on the horse tomorrow.
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“And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you. (Philippians 1:6)”
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Ros says:
I’ve never been so tired of going on and through the same old routine. I believe that fasting is not only a choice but it can become a requirement, meaning if you want to see changes, in your regular old routine, and have seen changes in a regualr old routine, you know and say to yourself that “I must do this” It becomes a must and I call a ‘must’ a requirement in order for me to get closer and closer to the Almighty. It is
such an honor to reference God in this way. I’ve heard of the 30 fold, the 60 fold and the 100 fold. And I now know the fasting, praying and giving brings the 100 fold….Hallelujah we are on our way. Moving into the 4th day
Thank you Free Chapel
Praise the Lord! -
Phumi says:
I am really excited about this fast because in our church we have prayer every night to correspond with the fast. This is our KiAros moment filed with overwhelming blessings from God. I am not overwhelmed by hunger for food but for God
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Yes. It seems when you fast, or even when you simply to put aside your time to complete a task you know God has called you to, Satan brings EVERY possible distraction he can. And it’s not necessarily dangling sin before you, but DISTRACTION. For me, it’s keeping my house orderly in a manner that would be pleasing to God (I’m a hoarder by nature)…I could sit lazily by for days, but when I commit to God, start praying for guidance, setting out with determination to complete a task for God, for my family, for my marriage….suddenly the phone is ringing with “Hey, I need your help” calls. Whether temptations from Satan or tests from God….our distractions must be put aside when we have made a commitment to complete a tasks for God’s glory. Marshelle, I’m praying for all those engaged in this corporate fast and for others committing their lives to a task God has placed on their heart. May we see our race thru to the finish line, may God bless us with endurance.
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christinah says:
im very blessed to be part of this n i give all the thanks to the Almighty.
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Lorena says:
It is just amazing what God can do.! He is good! Only thru Him we can overcome! Amen
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Tiffany says:
God is so awesome. I’m only on day 3, but I am experiencing so much insight. And I’m learning to be hungry for the Lord and have Him completely satisfy me instead of being so “full” off of food, TV, FB, Twitter, etc that I lose my appetite for God. This fast is so what I need. I am on the brink of a breakthrough in my thinking and in my relationship with God.
God I am coming to you in humble adoration. Thank you for Your church Father.