Faith Christian Center
WHY ARE YOU FASTING?
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; Luke 17:3-4). Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2).
You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship music. Refrain from listening to secular music. Pray as often 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.
PREPARING PHYSICALLY
If you have health concerns, consult your doctor prior to beginning a fast and explain what you plan to do. This is especially important if you take prescription medications or have a chronic ailment. Some people should never fast without professional supervision.
HOW TO BEGIN
Start with a clear goal. Whether you are beginning a private fast, or fasting corporately as we will be doing at Faith Christian Center you should know why you are fasting. Listed in the Special Instructions for Faith Christian Center section are the purposes for this corporate fast.
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. And naturally, you will have hunger pangs. Limit your activity as much as possible, and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results.
DECIDING WHAT TO FAST
What you fast is up to you. It may be a full fast in which you only drink liquids, or you may desire to fast like Daniel, who only abstained from breads and meats, and drank only water. There is no power in the foods eaten or not eaten. The power is in consecrating our body, soul and spirit unto the Lord for a focused time of prayer and fasting. There are a few other things to focus on during this time that will help you maintain a "clean vessel." For example, you should refrain from critical speaking, spreading negative words about or to anyone else. Also, consider limiting how much you watch TV, and how much time you spend on things that are distracting. Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study. That time with Jesus will produce dramatic change in your life.
HOW TO END
Don't overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid foods gradually and eat smaller portions or snacks.
[1] Information taken from Jentezen Franklin’s Magazine Article “Fasting Quick Tips”.
Note: Pregnant women, nursing mothers, young children, athletes, and those on a medically monitored diet should NOT participate in this fast without written permission from your physician or dietician.