Fast 2023 objective
God will set the direction of our lives and church to equip and enable us to fulfil the great commission.
Consecration means to make or declare sacred (connected to God); dedicate formally to a religious purpose.
What is fasting?
Setting one’s self apart from the normal routines of daily life by abstaining from food for a specific period of time for spiritual purpose.
Biblical fasting is abstaining from food. If you’re used to a routine of “three square meals a day,” going without food as a spiritual practice may sound strange. Some Christians use the word “fast” when abstaining from pleasures besides food, like TV, internet etc. You might know people who have gone on a “social media fast” or a “screen fast” for spiritual reasons. Essentially, we are putting aside all the things that are hindering our relationship with God. We are denying our flesh so that we can sow into the spirit. Fasting is a dynamic and powerful spiritual tool that can be used to renew our relationship with God.
Why do we fast?
Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
Matthew 6:2 NKJV
“And when you pray, you shall not be like the [a]hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
Matthew 6:5 NKJV
“Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the [a]hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
Matthew 6:16 NKJV
Fasting is not…
Biblical fasting is not a hunger strike between you and God. It can be easy to think of fasting as a way to add an extra oomph to your prayers. But biblical fasting isn’t so much about how God responds to your prayers: it’s more about how you bring your prayers to Him. Fasting is not to meant to twist God’s arm. There is power in fasting when it is accompanied by prayer.
Preparing for your fast
Before you undertake a fast, there are several things to consider and a few you should do to prepare. Decide what type of fast you will do and for how long. Prayerfully make this decision upon God’s leading. As we, New Season Church, begin to prepare for our 14 day consecration, we urge you to be intentional in planning your fast this week.
Types of fasts
- Daniel fast
- Dry fast
- Liquid fast
Attitude of fasting
- Joyful
- No boastful
16 “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. 17 But when you fast, comb your hair[a] and wash your face. 18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.
Matthew 6:16-18 NLT
And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.
Hebrews 11:6 NLT
He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he is surrounded by light.
Daniel 2:22 NLT
