Finding God in Silence: Embracing Prayer and Fasting

 

Summary

In today's gathering at Kingsford Church of Christ, we embarked on a new series titled "Beyond the Noise: Finding Jesus in Silence, Scripture, Sabbath, and Stewardship." This series is designed to help us navigate the constant pressures and demands of life by exploring spiritual disciplines that allow us to connect more deeply with God. In a world filled with external and internal noise, from the hustle of city life to the endless digital distractions, we are invited to find a God-given way to live life to the fullest by embracing practices that slow us down and create space for the Spirit of God to transform us.

The focus today was on prayer and fasting, two powerful spiritual disciplines that help us go beyond the noise. Prayer is not just a one-way conversation with God but involves talking to, talking with, listening to, and being with God. Jesus taught His disciples to pray to a loving Father, emphasizing a relational approach to prayer. We explored the use of pre-made prayers, such as the Lord's Prayer and the Psalms, as tools to articulate our hearts to God, especially when words fail us.

Fasting, on the other hand, is about denying ourselves to draw closer to God. It creates space for God by saying no to certain things, allowing us to say yes to Him. Fasting helps us recognize our dependence on God and brings the right perspective to our lives. Jesus taught that fasting should not be for outward appearances but as a private act of devotion to God.

As we journey through this series, we are encouraged to intentionally incorporate these practices into our lives, creating rhythms that allow us to hear God's voice more clearly. This is an invitation to explore a deeper connection with God, to be transformed by His love, and to participate in His life through prayer and fasting. Let us embrace this opportunity to go beyond the noise and find rest in His presence.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Invitation to Silence and Solitude: In the midst of life's constant noise, we are invited to find Jesus in silence and solitude. These moments allow us to encounter God, listen to His voice, and be transformed by His love. Solitude is not about isolation but about creating intentional space to meet God in our pain and joy. [42:27]

2. Prayer as a Relational Practice: Prayer is more than a ritual; it is a relational practice that involves talking to, talking with, listening to, and being with God. Jesus taught His disciples to pray to a loving Father, emphasizing a close and personal relationship with God. This relational approach to prayer transforms our understanding and experience of God's presence. [47:06]

3. The Power of Pre-Made Prayers: Pre-made prayers, such as the Lord's Prayer and the Psalms, can be powerful tools in our prayer life. They help articulate our hearts to God, especially when words fail us. These prayers connect us to the experiences of others and guide us in expressing our deepest emotions and desires to God. [51:35]

4. Fasting as a Spiritual Discipline: Fasting is not just about abstaining from food but about creating space for God in our lives. It helps us recognize our dependence on God and brings the right perspective to our priorities. Fasting is a private act of devotion that aligns our hearts with God's will and allows us to hear His voice more clearly. [01:05:35]

5. Intentional Rhythms of Prayer and Fasting: Incorporating intentional rhythms of prayer and fasting into our lives helps us go beyond the noise and connect with God. These practices are not about adding more tasks to our busy lives but about creating space for the Spirit of God to transform us. They invite us to participate in the life and love of God, drawing us into a deeper relationship with Him. [01:09:18]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [20:39] - Opening Prayer
- [21:57] - Announcements
- [22:59] - Introduction to Spiritual Disciplines
- [39:36] - Beyond the Noise Series Introduction
- [40:49] - The Constant Noise of Life
- [42:27] - Invitation to Silence and Solitude
- [43:50] - Spiritual Practices Overview
- [44:59] - Focus on Prayer and Fasting
- [45:48] - Jesus Teaches Prayer
- [47:06] - Relational Prayer with God
- [48:53] - Dimensions of Prayer
- [51:35] - The Role of Pre-Made Prayers
- [55:31] - Stages of Prayer
- [01:05:35] - Fasting as a Spiritual Discipline
- [01:09:18] - Invitation to Intentional Rhythms

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Beyond the Noise: Finding Jesus in Silence, Scripture, Sabbath, and Stewardship

Bible Reading:
1. Luke 11:1-4
2. Matthew 6:16-18
3. Psalm 27:4

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Observation Questions:

1. In Luke 11:1-4, what specific elements does Jesus include in the prayer He teaches His disciples? How does this reflect a relational approach to God? [47:06]

2. According to Matthew 6:16-18, what instructions does Jesus give about fasting, and what is the intended focus of this practice? [01:05:35]

3. How does the sermon describe the role of pre-made prayers, such as the Lord's Prayer and the Psalms, in our spiritual life? [51:35]

4. What are some examples given in the sermon of the "constant noise" in our lives that can distract us from connecting with God? [40:49]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the relational nature of prayer, as taught by Jesus, change the way believers might approach their prayer life? [47:06]

2. What might be the significance of Jesus emphasizing the private nature of fasting in Matthew 6:16-18, and how does this relate to the authenticity of one's faith? [01:05:35]

3. In what ways do pre-made prayers help believers articulate their emotions and desires to God, especially during times when personal words are hard to find? [51:35]

4. How can the practice of fasting help believers recognize their dependence on God and bring clarity to their priorities? [01:03:50]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your current prayer life. How can you incorporate the relational aspects of prayer, such as talking with and listening to God, into your daily routine? [48:53]

2. Consider the "noise" in your life that distracts you from connecting with God. What specific steps can you take this week to create moments of silence and solitude? [40:49]

3. Have you ever used pre-made prayers in your spiritual practice? If not, how might incorporating them, like the Psalms or the Lord's Prayer, enhance your prayer life? [51:35]

4. Fasting is described as a way to create space for God. What is one thing you can fast from this week to deepen your spiritual focus and connection with God? [01:03:50]

5. The sermon invites us to participate in intentional rhythms of prayer and fasting. What specific rhythm or routine can you establish in your life to ensure regular engagement with these spiritual disciplines? [01:09:18]

6. How can you encourage others in your community or small group to explore and practice these spiritual disciplines together? What role can you play in fostering a supportive environment for this exploration? [01:02:54]

7. Reflect on Psalm 27:4. How does the desire to dwell in the presence of the Lord resonate with your current spiritual journey, and what changes might you make to align more closely with this desire? [01:12:16]

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing Silence and Solitude
In the midst of life's constant noise, we are invited to find Jesus in silence and solitude. These moments allow us to encounter God, listen to His voice, and be transformed by His love. Solitude is not about isolation but about creating intentional space to meet God in our pain and joy. In a world filled with distractions, finding time for silence and solitude can be challenging, yet it is essential for spiritual growth. By stepping away from the chaos, we open ourselves to the gentle whispers of God's Spirit, allowing His presence to fill our hearts and minds. [42:27]

Isaiah 30:15 (ESV): "For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, 'In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.' But you were unwilling."

Reflection: What specific time and place can you set aside this week to intentionally seek silence and solitude with God, allowing Him to speak into your life?


Day 2: Prayer as a Relational Practice
Prayer is more than a ritual; it is a relational practice that involves talking to, talking with, listening to, and being with God. Jesus taught His disciples to pray to a loving Father, emphasizing a close and personal relationship with God. This relational approach to prayer transforms our understanding and experience of God's presence. By engaging in prayer as a dialogue, we deepen our connection with God, experiencing His love and guidance in our daily lives. Prayer becomes a space where we can be honest, vulnerable, and open to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. [47:06]

Jeremiah 29:12-13 (ESV): "Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."

Reflection: How can you make your prayer time more relational this week, focusing on both speaking to and listening for God's voice?


Day 3: The Power of Pre-Made Prayers
Pre-made prayers, such as the Lord's Prayer and the Psalms, can be powerful tools in our prayer life. They help articulate our hearts to God, especially when words fail us. These prayers connect us to the experiences of others and guide us in expressing our deepest emotions and desires to God. By using pre-made prayers, we join a chorus of voices throughout history, finding solidarity and strength in shared expressions of faith. These prayers can serve as a foundation, helping us to articulate our own thoughts and feelings as we grow in our relationship with God. [51:35]

Psalm 19:14 (ESV): "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."

Reflection: Choose a pre-made prayer or Psalm to incorporate into your daily routine this week. How does it help you express your heart to God?


Day 4: Fasting as a Spiritual Discipline
Fasting is not just about abstaining from food but about creating space for God in our lives. It helps us recognize our dependence on God and brings the right perspective to our priorities. Fasting is a private act of devotion that aligns our hearts with God's will and allows us to hear His voice more clearly. By setting aside physical needs, we make room for spiritual nourishment, drawing closer to God and gaining insight into His purposes for our lives. Fasting becomes a powerful tool for spiritual renewal and transformation. [01:05:35]

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: Consider fasting from something specific this week to create space for God. What might you learn about your dependence on Him through this practice?


Day 5: Intentional Rhythms of Prayer and Fasting
Incorporating intentional rhythms of prayer and fasting into our lives helps us go beyond the noise and connect with God. These practices are not about adding more tasks to our busy lives but about creating space for the Spirit of God to transform us. They invite us to participate in the life and love of God, drawing us into a deeper relationship with Him. By establishing regular patterns of prayer and fasting, we cultivate a lifestyle that prioritizes spiritual growth and intimacy with God, allowing His presence to shape our thoughts, actions, and desires. [01:09:18]

Colossians 4:2 (ESV): "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving."

Reflection: What specific rhythm of prayer and fasting can you establish in your life to deepen your relationship with God and allow His Spirit to transform you?

Quotes


And so this month we're taking this time to go beyond the noise of daily life and find Jesus in the silence. In Scripture, in Sabbath, and in stewardship, we're going to take this whole month to go through this series. And I've titled it Beyond the Noise because this is an invitation to each and every one of you to explore this deeper connection with God through the practices of Jesus. [00:42:27] (27 seconds)


And so over the next four weeks, we're going to do a deep dive into the spiritual disciplines or the practices of a follower of Jesus. And these are just some, this is not all. And so the four that we're going to look at is silence through prayer and fasting, through Scripture, through Sabbath, and through stewardship or generosity. [00:42:59] (24 seconds)


These practices, they're not meant to add to the tasks that we already have in our busy lives, but actually they're designed to slow us down and create space for the Spirit of God to transform us. These practices, they're a means to an end. And the end being this, so that we can participate in the love and the life of God himself. [00:43:50] (28 seconds)


And in our busy lives, we may find it difficult to hear God's voice. And so this is actually an invitation to follow Jesus into the quiet place. And it requires intent on our part. And it requires us to actually accept God's invitation into this space. And so today, we're going to focus, on prayer and fasting. [00:44:59] (29 seconds)


And if you notice this, Jesus taught his disciples to pray to Father, to Father God, right? Showing that this is much more than just a God who is out there, who is distant, but one who is close, one who loves us as close as a father. And then in our English, it says hallowed. Hallowed meaning may your name be kept holy. Or may you be honored as holy, right? So that's the prayer. [00:47:06] (35 seconds)


And so if I can simplify prayer as really being four dimensions, prayer as being four dimensions, the four being talking to God, talking with God, listening to God, and being with God. And when we begin to pray, when you, like if you remember back to, for many of you, remember back to the first time you prayed, it's often a one-way conversation, isn't it? [00:48:53] (35 seconds)


And I learned that sometimes it's actually good to use what I would suppose call pre-made prayers. It can be super helpful because others can express prayers or words and feelings that sometimes we don't really know how to pray. The prayer that Jesus taught that we often refer to as the Lord's Prayer that we just learned, that we just read, is an example of a pre-made prayer. [00:51:35] (29 seconds)


And so some of these pre-made prayers are helpful. Right? When you're first learning to pray, you're not quite sure how to pray. And so you learn from others. You might do it when you're traveling and away from your daily prayer rhythm. Right? You're maybe on a plane or a hotel. Some things might be happening in your life. [00:55:31] (18 seconds)


Another spiritual discipline that goes along with prayer is fasting, right? Fasting. Fasting is not just about denying, not just about denying food, and it is, but also about denying ourselves in order to draw closer to God. Fasting can help us recognize that we need God. And fasting can help us to hear God's voice. [01:05:35] (29 seconds)


And so as we go beyond the noise, the invitation is for us to learn the life of Jesus because we are His apprentices, not just His followers, not just His disciples. We actually want to be apprenticed by Jesus Himself. And so prayer and fasting are powerful ways to encounter Jesus to steward our inner lives. [01:11:56] (25 seconds)


In the silence and in the solitude through prayer and fasting, this is where we can discover our deepest needs are actually met by God. And through these practices, we can get beyond the noise to hear God more clearly. Amen. Let's pray. You know, in our complex world, Jesus invites us to simplicity, to be with Him. [01:12:34] (31 seconds)


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Transcript
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