21 Day Fast Day 4

Today is day 4 of our 21 Day Fast, January 11, 2024. I had someone tell me years ago that he believed that fasting was a way to get God to do what we wanted him to do for us. I whole heartedly disagreed! Fasting is not a bargaining chip. It is one of the ways we open our hearts to hear what he wants to tell us. God calls fasting humbling ourselves. We’re letting go of our agendas and waiting on the Lord to direct us. Expect God to speak to you during this fast. Be sensitive to dreams and visions he may bring you.When you wake up, don’t just jump out of bed in a hurry. Take time to reflect and ask yourself if you had one. Dialogue with the Lord. Ask him questions about what you’re feeling. Remember he is for us not against us. He delights in us and is taking note of our progress. If you’re struggling, talk to him about it. He is there for you! You can also just reply to this email and let us know. We’re a family!

Look at what took place in the early church. Acts 13:1-3 (NIV) 1 In the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul. 2 While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

How exciting is that the God of all creation dialogues with his people. That has not changed. He is the same, yesterday, today and forever! In Acts 15:28 it says, “It seemed good to us and the Holy Spirit and to us…” God wants a two-way conversation. But it does take effort on our part. God bless you and fill you!

Love in Christ,
Pastor Ray
 
(Keep reading these verses. They’ll get inside you and be part of your arsenal.)
 
Deuteronomy 31:6 Be strong and courageous

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding

Psalm 34:6 Taste and see that the Lord is good

Ephesians 6:2   "Honor your father and mother"

Philippians 4:1 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
 
Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.