Fasting

January 9, 2014

What’s the Secret?


“However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” Matthew 17:21

In Matthew 6 Jesus taught the Beatitudes. He provided a pattern for living a godly life. That pattern addresses three duties of a Christian: giving, praying and fasting. Jesus said, “When you give …” and “When you pray …” and “When you fast.” He made it clear that fasting, like giving and praying, was a normal part of a Christian life. Could we be missing our greatest breakthroughs when we don’t fast?

Matthew 17 tells the story of a father who had a demon-possessed son who suffered with severe convulsions. Having exhausted every attempt to cure the boy—even taking him to the disciples who couldn’t help—the father gave up hope. Then he heard Jesus was near and went to beg for his son’s life.

When the boy was brought to Jesus, the Bible says He “rebuked the demon, and it came out of him.” (v.18) But what’s the secret? Why couldn’t the disciples, whom Jesus had given authority over demons, help the boy? Jesus explained, “… this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” (v.21)

If Jesus could have accomplished all He came to do without fasting, why would He fast? Because He knew there were supernatural things that could only be released that way. How much more should fasting be a common practice in our lives?

Whether you desire to be closer to God or are in need of great breakthroughs in your life, there are certain answers that may only come through prayer and fasting.

This is no ordinary time in your life. It is an extraordinary time you’ve set aside for Him! You cannot live like this daily. But you cannot live on bread alone (Matthew 4:4).

Fasting is truly a secret source of power!

Fasting

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