Jesus said, his followers would fast. I’ve often thought that Isaiah 58 was what he had in mind. The kind of fast that through self denial brings deliverance to those who are oppressed. If our motives are pure God is glorified in His Church, people are helped, and we can anticipate answers to our prayers. After 40 days of fasting and prayer you come out a stronger and more disciplined man or woman.  “This is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free, and remove the chains that bind people.” (Isaiah 58:6, NLT)

There will be times that you will be tempted to give in to your desire for whatever you have given up. If it’s chocolate, you will see chocolate everywhere. If it’s social media you will want to check Facebook for just a quick look. If you choose a day to fast from food everything will look delicious. Stay focused, ask God for strength, and discipline for the duration of the fast. You’ll be glad that you did!

God says when we call he will answer! “Then when you call, the Lord will answer. ‘Yes, I am here,’ he will quickly reply.” (Isaiah 58:9, NLT) It is the better part of wisdom to remember our Lord said his followers would fast. We aren’t fasting to be ascetic; we are participating in the kind of fast that God said would honor him, by removing yokes of oppression, stop the spread of vicious rumors, and feed the hungry. Then the Lord will answer, guide, and restoring you.

Peace!