đClick and listen to this training as you get ready or drive somewhere.
In the face of uncertainty, when the path ahead seems unclear and decisions loom large, we often find ourselves asking, âWhat should I do?â Itâs in these moments that we must turn to the foundational practices of our faith: prayer and fasting.
These spiritual disciplines are not mere rituals but powerful tools that connect us directly with God, allowing us to seek His guidance and wisdom.
Prayer is our lifeline to the Almighty, a direct communication channel through which we can express our deepest concerns, fears, and desires.
âThe Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.â (Psalm 145:18, NIV)
This verse reminds us that God is not distant or unreachable. He is near, ready to listen and respond when we approach Him with sincerity and truth.
However, prayer is not just about speaking; itâs also about listening. As we pour out our hearts to God, we must also create space to hear His voice. This two-way communication is essential for receiving divine guidance.
âThe right way to pray is to stretch out our hands and ask of One who we know has the heart of a Father.â [1] âDietrich Bonhoeffer
While prayer connects us with God, fasting helps us clear away the distractions that often cloud our spiritual vision. By voluntarily abstaining from food (or other things), we create space for increased focus on spiritual matters. Jesus Himself practiced fasting, setting an example for us to follow:
âWhen you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward youâ (Matthew 6:16-18, NIV).
This passage not only affirms the practice of fasting but also emphasizes the importance of the right attitude and motivation. Fasting is not about impressing others or earning Godâs favor; itâs about creating space for deeper communion with Him.
When prayer and fasting are practiced together, they create a powerful synergy that can lead to spiritual breakthrough and clarity. Consider the example of the early church leaders in Acts:
âWhile they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, âSet apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.â So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them offâ (Acts 13:2-3, NIV).
This passage illustrates how prayer and fasting can lead to clear divine guidance and direction. The fast of the city of Nineveh serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of prayer and fasting. When the prophet Jonah warned the people of Nineveh about Godâs impending judgment, their response was remarkable.