21 Day Fast: January 2-22, 2012

“Cutback to Care” 
Isaiah 58:6-7  

Matthew  6 mentions three duties of every Christian: to give, to pray and to fast. The results are a manifestation of God’s power and  presence in our lives. During our 21 Day Fast, God is going to show us  direction and guidance during prayer that will affect our finances, our faith and our families.

 Biblical fasting takes a lot of discipline and strength—strength and grace which we can only receive from God.  Our private discipline will bring us the public rewards of Heaven.

As we begin 2012, we recognize the principles of First Fruits.  For example, when I pray in the morning, I set the course for the rest of the day.  As we begin 2012 with a 21 Day Fast and consecration, we are setting the course for the entire year. We are determining to be compassionate to the poor and those in need of the Gospel in our city, nation and world. Join us in seeking God in prayer, and cutting back on entertainment. The time and monies you would have spent on these, give to the Lord through mission support.                                                                       

                                                                                                                                       Pastor Walter Harvey

Fasting Facts 

What is a Fast?

Simply stated, biblical fasting is refraining from food for a spiritual purpose.

Why Should I Fast?

There is never a “good time” to fast.  I suggest that you just fast and everything will work out.

Blessings will happen for you and your family throughout the year because you fasted in January.  God will bless you in May, August or in October.  You will still receive blessings because you fasted at the beginning of the year. 

You release the Matthew 6:33 principles, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness: and all these things will be added unto you.”  You are seeking God at the first of your year.  Now get  ready for “things” to “be added unto you.”

When you participate in a 21 day fast, there are thousands and thousands of believers all over the world who are fasting at the same time.  When you begin to fast and “link” with them spiritually, the same blessings that are upon them and the same answers to prayer and spiritual
breakthroughs that they receive, you receive also.

What Should I Focus On While I Am Fasting?

Are you in need of healing or a miracle?

Do you need the tender touch of God in your life?

Is there a dream inside you that only He can make possible?

Are you in need of a fresh encounter of His presence?

Do you desire a deeper, more intimate and powerful relationship with the Lord?

Are you ready to have heightened sensitivity to the desires of God?

Do you need to break away from bondages that have been holding you hostage?

Is there a friend or loved one that needs Salvation?

Do you desire to know God’s will for your life?

Ask the Lord to show you areas to target during your time of fasting and prayer.  We believe that, as we pray and seek God and give Him our best at the first of the year, He will bless our entire year (Matthew 6:33)

What are the Different Types of Fasts?

The one to choose is between you and God.  He will honor your best sacrifice.  If you are in poor health or have concerns about your physical ability to fast, please consult a physician before beginning your first fast.  Your doctor can provide advice on how you can participate on this First Fruits Fast in a way that is healthy for you.

Full Fast-Drink only liquids (you establish the number of days)

The Daniel Fast-Eat no meat, no sweets and no bread.  Drink water and juice.  Eat fruits and vegetables.

3 Day Fast-This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.

Partial Fast-A partial fast is from 6 am to 3 pm or from sun up to sundown.  You can select from three types of fasting—Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food. 

How Do I Begin and End My Fast?

How to Begin– Start with a clear goal.  Be specific.  Why are you fasting?  Do you need
direction, healing, restoration of marriage or family issues?  Are you facing financial
difficulties?  Ask the Holy  Spirit for guidance.  Pray daily and read the Bible in these areas.

Preparing Spiritually– Confess your sins to God.  Ask the Holy  Spirit to reveal areas of weakness.  Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 1`7:3-4).  Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you.  (Romans 12:1-2)

Deciding What to Fast-The types of fasting you choose is up to you,.  You could go on a full fast in which you only drink liquids, or you may desire to fast like Daniel, who abstained from sweets and meats, and the only liquid he drank was water.  Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study.

Deciding How Long-You may fast as long as you like.  Most can easilyfast from one to three days, but you may feel the grace to go longer, even as much as 21 to 40 days.  Use wisdom and pray for guidance.  Beginners are advised to start slow.

What to Expect?  When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins, from your system.  This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches  and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars.  Naturally, you will have hunger pains.  Limit your activity and exercise moderately.  Take time to rest.  Fasting brings about miraculous results.  You are following Jesus’ example when you fast.   Spend time listening to praise and worship.  Pray as you can throughout the day.  Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s face.

How to End-  Don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast.  Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.

What Scriptures Can I Read and Pray During My Fast?

Scriptures for fasting: Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 9:14-15, Luke 18:9-14

Relation to prayer and reading the Word: 1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18; Nehemiah 1:4, Daniel 9:3, 20, Joel 2:12, Luke 2:37, Acts 10:30, Acts 13:2

Corporate Fasting:  1 Samuel 7:5-6, Ezra 8:21-23, Nehemiah 9:1-3, Joel 2:15-16, Jonah 3:5-10, Acts 27:33-37. 

1 Timothy 2:1-2, “ I exhort therefore, that , first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of  thanks, be made for all men; For Kings, and for all that are in authority; that they may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”

Romans 12:1 “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, (which is)  your reasonable service.”

Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

Isaiah 58:6-7 “Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?” 

Remember that it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him to which God
responds with a blessing.  May God bless you as you fast! 

(This reference is supported by materials from Jentezen Franklin’s 21 Day Fast Movement and Bob Rogers Ministries)