Why We Pray & Fast

Here's a more detailed look at the reasons why we partake in intercessory prayer:

Following Jesus' Example:

Intercessory prayer mirrors Jesus' own actions, as he is described as an intercessor for humanity. Christians are encouraged to emulate his example by praying for others. 

Demonstrating Love and Compassion:

Intercession is a tangible way to express love and care for others by bringing their needs before God. 

Participating in God's Work:

We believe that intercessory prayer allows believers to participate in God's plan for the world, acting as channels of his grace and mercy. 

Strengthening Faith:

Intercession strengthens our faith by acknowledging dependence on God's power and sovereignty. 

Fostering Unity:

Intercessory prayer strengthens the bonds between believers as they unite in prayer for their community. 

Experiencing God's Presence:

Intercessory prayer brings a deeper awareness of God's presence and power. 

Strengthening our relationship with God:

Intercessory prayer builds a stronger relationship between ourselves and God as we are witnesses to his work through our prayer.

Standing in the Gap:

Intercessory prayer is a form of "standing in the gap" for others, offering support and protection through prayer. 

Encouraging Others:

Others receive encouragement from the Holy Spirit as those around them are praying for them.

Here's a more detailed look at the purposes of fasting in the Bible:

1. Seeking God's Guidance and Direction:

Fasting was a common practice when seeking God's will, especially in times of uncertainty or when facing difficult decisions.

Examples include Nehemiah's fast to seek favor from the king for rebuilding Jerusalem (Nehemiah 1:4).

Example: In Judges 20:26, the Israelites fasted and sought God's direction before going to war.

2. Expressing Repentance and Humility:

Fasting, often accompanied by other expressions of humility like mourning and wearing sackcloth, shows a sincere desire to turn away from sin and return to God.

Example: King David humbled himself with fasting after committing adultery with Bathsheba (Psalm 35:13).

3. Seeking Deliverance and Protection:

Fasting was a way to plead with God for protection from enemies or deliverance from difficult circumstances.

Example: The people of Judah fasted and prayed when facing an invasion from Moab and Ammon (2 Chronicles 20:3-4).

4. Strengthening Prayer:

Fasting can intensify prayers and demonstrate a sincere desire for God's intervention.

Example: Ezra led a fast to seek God's protection for the returning exiles and their journey back to Jerusalem (Ezra 8:23).

5. Expressing Grief and Mourning:

Fasting was a way to express deep sorrow and grief over loss or tragedy.

Example: David and his men mourned and fasted for Saul and Jonathan after their deaths (2 Samuel 1:12).

6. Denying Self and Focusing on God:

Fasting can be a way to deny physical desires and focus on spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God.

Example: Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, demonstrating his dependence on God and his commitment to God's will (Matthew 4:1-11).

7. Expressing Worship:

In some cases, fasting was a way to express love and devotion to God.

Example: Anna, the prophetess, worshipped God by fasting and prayer in the temple (Luke 2:37).

Important Considerations:

Not a Performance:

Jesus warned against fasting for show, emphasizing the importance of a sincere heart (Matthew 6:16-18).

Not a Means of Manipulation:

Fasting is not intended to manipulate God or force Him to act in a certain way.

Focus on Spiritual Transformation:

The ultimate goal of fasting is spiritual growth, a closer relationship with God, and a transformed life.