What is the longest month? This year is a leap year; so we know February gets an extra day; but it’s not the longest month. We also know that “30 days has September, April, June and November” but they can’t beat January, March, May, July, August, September, October, and December with their 31 days!
What’s the longest month? I suggest for those who entered into a 21 day fast beginning last Sunday that January may well be the longest month of the year! Time sure seems to be slowing down for me; as I’ve given up “meats and sweets” like Daniel and also caffeine. Today I’d like to dedicate my thoughts to fasting. A spiritual discipline far too few Christians practice including me.
I have gone on 3 day solid food fasts a few times in my walk with Christ and I have gone on partial fasts during Lent for most of my life; but never this type of a Daniel Fast ever! I know friends who have and found great benefit, but I guess I never wanted to deny myself to that extent. There is a real battle between our flesh and our spirit and too often I give in to the flesh. What about you? Some of you reading this right now have already dismissed even the thought of fasting; others are about to click off now. But, for those who continue I pray you will be challenged and blessed!
I want to hear from you who are fasting during this time! What are you experiencing this week? What are you discovering –beyond long days? Let’s learn from each other and encourage each other. I wrote in my journal these thoughts so far:
“Lord, Thanks for the challenge and resolve to fast for these 21 days. It is “disrupting” my routine and causing me to deny my flesh –I like to begin my mornings with a cup of hot tea, I like to have a Coke at lunch and sometimes at dinner and I enjoy my desserts –even savoring my breath mints; but I’ve given those, plus meats up these days. I suffered a mild headache the first evening and second day, but they went away by the third day (Great things often occur on the “third day” don’t they?). The days are certainly longer, so fasting does slow one down and I’m beginning to get some extra time with You. My energy level is good and I was able to run yesterday without too much difficulty. My taste buds are being renewed, as I ate a Gala apple and it tasted really sweet! I seem to be losing a few pounds as well –a benefit though not my focus. Thanks Lord for the benefits I’m already experiencing. “
Pastor Jentezen Franklin who has led his church to fast in January for the last 12 years says, “Fasting and prayer bring you closer to God.” And if you have lost your spiritual edge, “Then declare a fast and pray. God wants to supernaturally change you.” Have you lost your edge? Why not seek God today and ask Him if it’s time to do something “different” in your walk with Him. Maybe it’s time to declare a fast. You can begin any day and reap the blessings of a closer walk with Christ in 2012(If you have medical issues, please consult your doctor first as well). Blessings!
Your Pastor and fellow pilgrim on the journey,
Pastor Mark
PS – This Wednesday January 18 we begin our new six week study, “When God Speaks” by Henry Blackaby. This is an excellent time to listen to God’s voice, as we prepare for our Spiritual Life Weekend March 2-4, 2012. Come join us as we seek Christ together as The First Church Family!
Posted on
Thu, January 12, 2012
by Mark McAdow