(SPECIAL DEVOTIONAL FOR THE LENTEN SEASON NOS. 1)

LIVING WATERS MISSION

 SUNDAY 25^TH FEBRUARY 2024

AUTHOR: MARY LAWRENCE – DOKPESI

TOPIC: THE BENEFITS OF FASTING: NOURISHING BODY AND SOUL

TODAY’S SCRIPTURES:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

THE BENEFITS OF FASTING: NOURISHING BODY AND SOUL

As we embark on the journey of Lent, a season of reflection and renewal, the practice of fasting takes centre stage. While often associated with abstaining from food, fasting goes beyond mere physical sacrifice. It’s a powerful tool for nourishing both our bodies and souls, drawing us closer to God and ourselves.

The Bible provides ample evidence of the transformative power of fasting. In 1 Corinthians 9:27, Paul writes, “I discipline my body and bring it under strict control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” Fasting, like physical training, disciplines our bodies, allowing us to refocus our attention on spiritual matters.

But the benefits extend far beyond self-control. Isaiah 58:6-7 beautifully describes the essence of true fasting: “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to shelter the poor wanderer—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?”

Fasting becomes a conduit for compassion, urging us to share blessings and alleviate suffering. It’s not just about denying ourselves, but about creating space for others in our hearts and actions.

Physically, fasting can offer numerous benefits. Studies suggest it improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and promotes cellular repair. Fasting, coupled with a healthy diet, can be a step towards physical well-being, aligning with God’s desire for our wholeness.

Ultimately, the true essence of fasting lies not in restriction, but in transformation. It’s a journey of introspection, letting go of worldly distractions to rediscover our connection with God and our true selves.

PRAYERS

 Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, as I embark on this Lenten journey, guide me in fasting. Help me go beyond mere abstinence and embrace the transformative power it holds. Open my heart to compassion, guide me to share my blessings, and lead me closer to your divine presence. Amen.

FURTHER READING:

 Joel 2:12-14: “Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your hearts, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.”

Matthew 6:16-18: “Whenever you fast, do not put on a gloomy face as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have already received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in heaven, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”

Luke 18:9-14: To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all my income.’ But the tax collector stood at a distance, unwilling even to lift up his eyes to heaven, and beat his breast, saying, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner!’ I tell you; this man went down to his home justified, but not the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”