Today’s Scriptures: “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness; to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh? Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the LORD shall be your rearguard” - Isaiah 58:6-8

Lent is here again! This is a period to fast and pray for God’s intervention in our life as well as to pray for His reconciliation. Although we fast individually at different times, coming together to fast as one family of God’s children is unique. There is strength and power in our prayer when we are thus united at the same time. When we fast, we ought to voluntarily withdraw from food and/or drink, or other fleshly appetite, and physical desires for a specified period of time. There are several reasons we fast, the chief reason being to reconcile with God, get closer to Him and make Him help us through our needs. Moses fasted, Jesus and his disciples fasted and so many prophets and Apostles of Christ fasted. This Lenten period is an opportunity for us to come together as one family in Christ to fast and to pray. We derive great benefits from fasting, if done along with prayers.

Spiritual fasting is key to life. The word of God today reminds us of the several benefits of fasting and prayers. Do you have problems of addiction; a problem to solve; needing a spiritual revival; needing to conquer some mental and emotional problems; helping someone to overcome physical, moral and spiritual needs; needing a clearer insight in decision making? Do you want to achieve a more righteous life and influential testimony? Do you need the glory of the Lord, to protect you from the evil ones? This is the time to pray and fast together. Remember, fasting does not give you a blank cheque from God. Fasting will make us receive God’s will and Grace. Without faith, it is difficult to please God. Therefore, when we fast, we leave the result in God’s hands, and accept the results as His will.

Father in the name of Jesus Christ, I submit to you throughout this season of fasting and prayers. I need your Grace and miracle in my life and in my family. Touch us in a special way and let your will be done in our life. AMEN.