
A Note From Our Pastors Regarding Prayer & Fasting
We love the fresh start of a new year and the excitement of the possibilities it brings. That’s why we like to begin each New Year with our annual, corporate 21 Day Fast. Fasting at the beginning of the year is like praying first thing in the morning. It sets the tone for what follows. Just like starting your day with prayer and God’s Word can establish God’s will for your day and impact what happens for the rest of that day, prayer and fasting at the first of the year can establish God’s will for your year and profoundly impact what happens for the rest of that entire year. God promises that when we make Him the priority above all things, He will take care of every one of our needs. (Matthew 6:33).
Fasting lets God know that we are serious about wanting to see and experience change. When we pray and fast, we are doing something in the natural (physically), that produces supernatural results. Simply put, fasting is abstaining from food for a spiritual purpose. When we fast, we set aside time every day to seek God. We get in His presence and worship, pray, read our Bible, and meditate on His Word. When we do this, we are transformed from the inside out. Everything changes for the better when our priorities are in order. Prayer and fasting helps us do just that.
As you begin the fast, it is important to start with a clear goal in mind. That’s why encourage you to target your prayers during the fast. This year, the specific areas we will be focusing on together as a church are leadership, finances, spiritual growth, discipleship, team building, and expanding our reach. Also, be sure to ask God to show you the areas you’re to target personally. Then decide on the type of fast you will do, and stick with it.
This is a commitment between you and God, and the results you will experience for seeing it through will be life changing. This can be Rescue Church’s best year ever, so far! This can be your best year ever, so far! We are so glad you have decided to start this year off right by joining us on this year’s 21 Day Fast.
Blessings,
Pastor Paul and Becki Stieb
What Is Fasting?
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Fasting is a spiritual discipline designed to better connect us with God. Simply put, it’s refraining from food for a spiritual purpose. It’s about aligning ourselves with God and what He really wants to do in and through our lives. As a church, we are fasting together in order to deepen our relationship with God, as well as get in step with His plan and purpose for us during this coming year. Over the next 21 days, we will substitute our regular food intake with disciplines that help us better connect with God—reading the Bible, praying, and journaling. The overall goal is to experience a genuine hunger for spending time with God. Remember: the idea is to be realistic, not legalistic. Focusing on the details of connecting with God, rather than the details of the menu, will help you discover the blessings of fasting. If you have medical conditions that hinder your ability to fast, you may fast other things besides food such as tv, social media, etc. If you are unsure, consult your physician. Remember to use wisdom. God sees your heart and will honor your efforts.
Types Of Fasting
There are several types of fasting. The one you choose is between you and God. He will honor your best sacrifice.
FULL FAST
Drink only liquids (you establish the number of days).
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THE DANIEL FAST
Eat no meat, no sweets, no dairy products, and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables.
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3-DAY FAST
This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast, or you can give up at least one item of food.
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PARTIAL FAST
A partial fast is from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm or from sun up to sundown. You can select from three types of fasting —a Full Fast, Daniel Fast, or you can give up at least one item of food.
Quick Tips
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HOW TO BEGIN
Start with a clear goal. Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, or restoration in your marriage or other relationships? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Pray daily and read the Bible.
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DECIDING WHAT TO FAST
The type 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.
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DECIDING HOW LONG
We fast for 21 days. You may fast as long as you like. Most people can easily fast 1 to 3 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.
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HOW TO END
Don't overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually, with small portions or snacks.
