Fasting: A Path to Spiritual Breakthrough and Growth
Summary
### Summary
Today's sermon focused on the spiritual discipline of fasting and its profound impact on our relationship with God. Fasting is not merely abstaining from food but a deliberate act of self-discipline and self-denial to seek God's supernatural intervention in our lives. By foregoing meals and certain pleasures, we demonstrate our dependence on God rather than on natural means for nourishment and sustenance. This act of self-discipline allows us to connect with the supernatural realm, which in turn influences the natural realm, bringing about desired changes and improvements in our lives.
Isaiah 58 was highlighted to emphasize the importance of fasting with the right intentions. The people of Israel fasted but did not see results because they continued to indulge in pleasures and exploit others. True fasting involves self-denial, self-discipline, and self-humbling. It is a time to forgive, let go of grudges, and focus on spiritual growth. Fasting without prayer is merely a diet, and fasting without reading God's Word is an empty fast. Therefore, it is crucial to combine fasting with increased prayer and Bible study to enrich the experience and draw closer to God.
The sermon also touched on the importance of giving during fasting. Acts of generosity and kindness amplify the power of fasting. Biblical examples were provided to illustrate the transformative power of fasting and prayer, such as the deliverance of the city of Nineveh, the salvation of the nation of Israel from death, and the casting out of demons. Fasting equips us to overcome temptations, receive divine instructions, and make critical decisions with clarity and peace of mind.
In conclusion, fasting is a vital part of a believer's life, especially in times of seeking God's intervention for breakthroughs, healing, and deliverance. As we embark on this 21-day fasting period, let us focus on prayer, reading God's Word, and acts of kindness to experience the fullness of God's blessings and favor.
### Key Takeaways
1. Dependence on the Supernatural: Fasting is an act of self-discipline that shifts our dependence from natural means to the supernatural. By abstaining from food and certain pleasures, we demonstrate our reliance on God for nourishment and sustenance, allowing His supernatural power to influence and change our natural circumstances. [22:08]
2. Right Intentions in Fasting: Isaiah 58 teaches us that fasting must be done with the right intentions. True fasting involves self-denial, self-discipline, and self-humbling. It is a time to forgive, let go of grudges, and focus on spiritual growth. Fasting without these elements is ineffective and does not attract God's attention. [25:11]
3. Prayer and the Word of God: Fasting without prayer is merely a diet, and fasting without reading God's Word is an empty fast. To enrich our fasting experience, we must increase our prayer time and immerse ourselves in the Bible. This combination draws us closer to God and enhances the spiritual benefits of fasting. [28:11]
4. Generosity Amplifies Fasting: Acts of generosity and kindness during fasting amplify its power. Isaiah 58 highlights the importance of feeding the hungry and showing kindness to others. These acts of giving make our fasting more powerful and effective, attracting God's favor and blessings. [31:04]
5. Fasting for Breakthroughs: Fasting is a powerful tool for seeking God's intervention in difficult situations. Biblical examples, such as the deliverance of Nineveh and the salvation of Israel, show that fasting can lead to breakthroughs, healing, and deliverance. It equips us to overcome temptations and receive divine instructions for critical decisions. [49:43]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[22:08] - Dependence on the Supernatural
[25:11] - Right Intentions in Fasting
[28:11] - Prayer and the Word of God
[31:04] - Generosity Amplifies Fasting
[49:43] - Fasting for Breakthroughs
[54:42] - Preparation for 21-Day Fast
[56:58] - Prayer and Conclusion
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Isaiah 58:3-4 - "Why have we fasted, and you see it not? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you take no knowledge of it? Behold, in the day of your fast you seek your own pleasure, and oppress all your workers. Behold, you fast only to quarrel and to fight and to hit with a wicked fist. Fasting like yours this day will not make your voice to be heard on high."
2. Mark 2:18-22 - "Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. And people came and said to him, 'Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?' And Jesus said to them, 'Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins—and the wine is destroyed, and so are the skins. But new wine is for fresh wineskins.'"
3. Matthew 17:20-21 - "He said to them, 'Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, "Move from here to there," and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you. But this kind never comes out except by prayer and fasting.'"
### Observation Questions
1. According to Isaiah 58:3-4, what were the Israelites doing wrong in their fasting practices?
2. In Mark 2:18-22, why did Jesus say His disciples did not need to fast while He was with them?
3. What does Matthew 17:20-21 suggest about the relationship between faith, prayer, and fasting?
4. How does the sermon describe the importance of combining fasting with prayer and reading God's Word? [28:11]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important to have the right intentions when fasting, as highlighted in Isaiah 58:3-4? How can wrong intentions affect the outcome of fasting?
2. How does Jesus' explanation in Mark 2:18-22 about the timing of fasting apply to our lives today? What does it mean for us now that the "bridegroom" has been taken away?
3. What does the sermon suggest about the power of fasting combined with acts of generosity and kindness? How does this amplify the effectiveness of fasting? [31:04]
4. How does the example of the disciples' inability to cast out a demon in Matthew 17:20-21 illustrate the necessity of fasting and prayer for certain spiritual breakthroughs?
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own fasting practices. Have you ever fasted with the wrong intentions, similar to the Israelites in Isaiah 58:3-4? How can you ensure your next fast is done with the right heart and purpose?
2. Jesus mentioned that His disciples would fast when He was no longer with them (Mark 2:18-22). How can you incorporate regular fasting into your spiritual life now that we are in the "days" Jesus referred to?
3. The sermon emphasized the importance of combining fasting with prayer and Bible reading. What specific steps can you take to increase your prayer time and Bible study during a fast? [28:11]
4. Acts of generosity and kindness were highlighted as amplifying the power of fasting. Can you think of a specific act of kindness or generosity you can perform during your next fast? How might this change your fasting experience? [31:04]
5. The sermon mentioned that fasting can lead to breakthroughs, healing, and deliverance. Is there a specific area in your life where you are seeking a breakthrough? How can you incorporate fasting and prayer to seek God's intervention in this area? [49:43]
6. Reflect on a time when you faced a significant temptation. How might fasting have helped you overcome it, as Jesus did during His 40-day fast? How can you prepare yourself to use fasting as a tool to resist future temptations?
7. The sermon discussed the importance of self-discipline and self-denial in fasting. What are some practical ways you can practice self-discipline in your daily life, even outside of fasting periods? [22:08]
Devotional
Day 1: Dependence on the Supernatural
Fasting is an act of self-discipline that shifts our dependence from natural means to the supernatural. By abstaining from food and certain pleasures, we demonstrate our reliance on God for nourishment and sustenance, allowing His supernatural power to influence and change our natural circumstances. Fasting is not just about giving up food; it is about creating space for God to work in our lives. When we fast, we are saying that we trust God more than we trust our own abilities or resources. This act of faith opens the door for God to move in powerful ways, bringing about changes and improvements that we could never achieve on our own. [22:08]
Isaiah 40:29-31 (ESV): "He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."
Reflection: In what areas of your life are you relying on your own strength instead of God's supernatural power? How can you shift your dependence to Him today?
Day 2: Right Intentions in Fasting
Isaiah 58 teaches us that fasting must be done with the right intentions. True fasting involves self-denial, self-discipline, and self-humbling. It is a time to forgive, let go of grudges, and focus on spiritual growth. Fasting without these elements is ineffective and does not attract God's attention. When we fast with the right heart, we align ourselves with God's will and open ourselves up to His transformative power. This means examining our motives and ensuring that our fasting is not just a ritual, but a genuine act of worship and submission to God. [25:11]
Joel 2:12-13 (ESV): "Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.” Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster."
Reflection: Are there any grudges or unforgiveness in your heart that you need to let go of? How can you ensure your fasting is done with the right intentions?
Day 3: Prayer and the Word of God
Fasting without prayer is merely a diet, and fasting without reading God's Word is an empty fast. To enrich our fasting experience, we must increase our prayer time and immerse ourselves in the Bible. This combination draws us closer to God and enhances the spiritual benefits of fasting. When we fast, we should use the time we would normally spend eating to pray and read the Bible. This helps us to focus on God and His will for our lives, and it allows us to hear His voice more clearly. [28:11]
Matthew 4:4 (ESV): "But he answered, 'It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’"
Reflection: How can you incorporate more prayer and Bible reading into your fasting period? What specific steps will you take to ensure you are drawing closer to God during this time?
Day 4: Generosity Amplifies Fasting
Acts of generosity and kindness during fasting amplify its power. Isaiah 58 highlights the importance of feeding the hungry and showing kindness to others. These acts of giving make our fasting more powerful and effective, attracting God's favor and blessings. When we fast, we should look for opportunities to bless others and meet their needs. This not only helps those around us, but it also aligns our hearts with God's heart for the poor and needy. [31:04]
Proverbs 19:17 (ESV): "Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed."
Reflection: How can you show generosity and kindness during your fasting period? What specific acts of giving can you incorporate into your fast to amplify its power?
Day 5: Fasting for Breakthroughs
Fasting is a powerful tool for seeking God's intervention in difficult situations. Biblical examples, such as the deliverance of Nineveh and the salvation of Israel, show that fasting can lead to breakthroughs, healing, and deliverance. It equips us to overcome temptations and receive divine instructions for critical decisions. When we fast, we are positioning ourselves to receive God's guidance and breakthrough in our lives. This means being open to His leading and ready to act on His instructions. [49:43]
Ezra 8:23 (ESV): "So we fasted and implored our God for this, and he listened to our entreaty."
Reflection: What specific breakthrough are you seeking from God during this fasting period? How can you position yourself to receive His guidance and intervention in this area?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When you fast, you discipline yourself to depend on the supernatural, not on the natural. Hallelujah. For your nourishment. When you fast, you depend on the supernatural. You forego. That's where the discipline comes in. Because naturally, you eat the way you want. But this time around, you have to eat the way you want. So you have to discipline yourself to say, I am not going to eat this. Even though I have the craving for this. Even though I have the appetite for this. I am not going to do so." [22:08] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Fasting without prayer is salvation. Hallelujah. Fasting without prayer is what salvation. So it's very important that when you are fasting you make time to pray. Otherwise it becomes salvation or just maybe dieting. Maybe you want to lose weight but fasting is more than you know dieting. Fasting you know is building yourself spiritually. You want to be able to connect supernaturally to the supernatural God so that he can influence you know your current circumstance and situation and change something for you." [28:11] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Fasting without reading God’s word is an empty fast. Hallelujah. Fasting without reading God’s word is what an empty fast because you are fasting to get God attention and to get God’s attention begins with you making time for his word to get God’s attention begins with what making time for his word so when you fast Fast without reading God’s word, you’ll end up just, you know, doing empty fast. The word of God enriches your fast. Amen." [30:04] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Fasting without giving is not as powerful as fasting with giving. Amen. Fasting without giving is not as powerful as fasting with giving. So when you are fasting and giving, it makes your fasting powerful. When you take your time to read Isaiah 58, we may not have time to read all of that. He said that what? You know, is it not this time that you feed the hungry? Is it not this? So it means that in your time of fasting, you want to be good to people. Praise the Lord. You want to show generosity to others." [31:04] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Fasting is part of the believer’s life. Fasting is part of the believer’s life. And that’s what we’re going to find out here. Now, Mark chapter 2, verse 18 to 22. The same account is in Mark. Matthew 9, verse 14 to 17. And then Luke chapter 5, verse 73 to 29. All these three scriptures are basically the same. We are synoptic gospels. So I want us to read the Mark account. Mark chapter 2, verse 18 to 22." [32:07] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "When you are fasting it is time to forgive those that you have vowed never to forgive it is time to let go of certain things during your fast it’s very important because you don’t just want to do a fasting as a ritual you want to fast to get results positive favorable outcome from your past amen we want to receive god’s attention in our fast in Jesus name." [26:17] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "So through fasting and prayer, God will take over your battle and fight for you. So this 21 days, I pray that anything that you have been battling with, whether sickness, disease, whatever it is, may God take over your battle. May God give you victory. In the name of Jesus." [50:40] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "During fasting and prayers, demons are casted out. During fasting and prayers, what? Demons are casted out. Like the story we read earlier. Jesus casted out that demon. And he said, this kind can only come out by fasting and what? Prayer. This kind can come out by fasting and prayer. So when you are fasting and praying, you make your, you know, your, how do I put it? Your environment. You make your environment unattractive to demons. Hallelujah." [51:10] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Through fasting and prayers, God overturned every satanic agenda against you. In the name of Jesus. Every demonic agenda against you will be overturned. The same God that heard Esther and the people of Israel’s prayer and overturned their satanic agenda. Because sometimes when you’re in the workplace, you don’t know that person is thinking evil about you. He’s planning evil about you. You never know. It will take God to deliver you from their evil plans. Hallelujah." [49:14] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Fasting equips you or enables you to become spiritually sensitive your your spirit of discernment comes alive to be able to detect temptations hallelujah and not give me to the temptations of the devil because Jesus was in the fast when the devil come to tempt him he remembered some discipline he remembered self-denial he remembers self-humbling hallelujah so remember fasting will help you to overcome temptations faster will help you to overcome temptation." [45:40] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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