Several people in our church are going to fast for a time, during the 40 days leading up to the election. I think this is a good idea. Did you know that there are other things to fast besides food? In the Bible, married people may separate themselves from intimate acts for a short time for the purpose of prayer and devotion.
I like to give up the radio as a fast. I enjoy hearing the voices in the background while I'm working. It keeps me company. I just quit listening to it as a gift to God so I can get a new perspective from Him. I often fast during the church seasons of Advent and Lent. Also, if I find myself too drawn to something, I'll give it up as a fast. That usually breaks the wrong attachment to the ojbect so I can enjoy it later and not be so dependent on it.
Often I give up sweets as a fast. Once my daughter and I fasted magazines. Here is what often happens. Just when you give something up, you get tempted to break the fast. I see my favorite dessert at a restaurant or a special guest is going to come on the radio.
The more you give up as a sweet sacrifice to God for His purposes, the more you will receive - even if only God's nearness and that is a lot. Spend the time praying for the election. Let the process purge self attitudes. It can be powerful.
This is not like a diet where you goof and -oh well. When you give something up, you do it. If you should slip, get forgiveness and go back on your fast until your time is up. God actually works with you to help you. Write down the things you have learned from your fast.
Give up the thing you love. David said, "...nor will I offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God with that which cost me nothing." 2Samuel 24:24 Don't give up TV if you don't watch it. The greater the sacrifice, the greater the blessing. We're talking spiritual blessings, but God does hear and He knows everything we need.
Items you may want to fast besides food: radio, TV, books, sweets, pop (soda), magazines, jewelry, CDs, whatever. May God bless your fasting. May God bless America as you fast for Him and for His plans to come forth.
You make a good point. I haven't fasted for a while (any type) and I should prayerfully consider it soon. Thanks for the reminder!
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Karen
P.S. How is that little adorable granddaughter? :)
"The greater the sacrifice, the greater the blessing"...but we don't do it for ANY blessing except to align ourselves with the mind and heart of God Himself. THAT is the Great Blessing, isn't it?
ReplyDeleteNancy, I'm going to prayerfully consider if and how He might be directing me to join you in this 40 day fast. Thank you for the challenge.
Karen - She is fine, growing, and so much fun. I just got to see her Mon. and we had a great time together. Thanks for asking.
ReplyDeleteRebecca - You are absolutely right. Thank you for the comment. You said it very well.
ReplyDeleteWhat a cool concept, Nancy! Can I fast the political commercials? Ha, ha! Sorry, just kidding! Your beautiful babies are making me smile--are you a new grandma? How precious!
ReplyDeleteI have given up TV at times. I definitely feel blessed while it is gone :)
ReplyDeleteJill - Yes I am. I got a new grandson, L J, a brother to Ty, in April and a new granddaughter, Amelia, in June. I'm very busy and having lots of fun.
ReplyDeleteHi Nancy -
ReplyDeleteDue to migraines, I'm unable to fast a full day. However, I have fasted a favorite food, TV, etc.
Many people are praying and fasting for the elections. I think this is a good practice whether it's a Presidential year or not.
Blessings,
Susan :)
P.S. Do you have any new pics of the little ones? I'd love to see how they've grown.
Susan - Here are my grandchildren. Thanks for asking.
ReplyDeleteI sort of do "opposite of fasting." Instead of giving something up, I like to add something that helps me grow my relationship. For example I may add reading a certain book or commentary during the 40 days before Lent. Last year, I did a book study with my Dad where I called him every day for 40 days straight and we discussed the book together. It was really beneficial for us both.
ReplyDelete