MARCH 10, 2024
Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish. - Esther 4:15-16
While engaging in voluntary fasting, partakers choose to abstain from food for spiritual purposes. It transcends a mere discipline but is also a wise choice in our journey of faith. It allows us to focus our attention on seeking the face of the Lord while aligning our hearts with His purpose. Like Esther voluntarily fasted before approaching the King, we too can opt to fast as a means of seeking God's guidance, intervention, and presence in our lives.
When we fast, we set aside earthly pleasures and distractions to prioritize our spiritual hunger for God.
In Jonah 1:17, we see an example of involuntary fasting as Jonah finds himself in the belly of a large fish for three days and three nights. There may be times when we find ourselves in situations beyond our control – illness, loss, or unforeseen situations that lead to involuntary fasting from certain comforts or pleasures. In these moments, it is essential to recognize that God can use even the most difficult circumstances to bring about His purposes and draw us closer to Him.
Fasting is not merely about depriving ourselves of food; it is a deliberate swapping of appetites. When we fast, we set aside earthly pleasures and distractions to prioritize our spiritual hunger for God. It is a tangible way of demonstrating our dedication to prioritizing His will above everything else.
During fasting, we exchange the satisfaction of physical desires for the fulfillment found in communion with God. We learn to condition our happiness and joy on His presence rather than on temporary indulgences. By voluntarily fasting, we declare to God that we are earnestly seeking Him, willing to sacrifice earthly pleasures for a deeper encounter with Him.
As we partake in voluntary fasting, let us consider what other desires or distractions we may need to set aside. Whether it be entertainment, leisure, or even intimate pleasures, fasting calls us to redirect our focus solely on God. It is a time of consecration and surrender, where we lay aside everything else to pursue a deeper relationship with our Maker.
May we truly embrace the wisdom and purpose of voluntary fasting, knowing that as we seek God wholeheartedly, He will commune with us and reveal His glory in our lives.
Song of Worship
I love you, Lord, And I lift my voice, To worship you
Oh my soul rejoice
Take joy, my king In what you hear
May it be a sweet sweet sound, In your ear
Prayer- Heavenly Father, I thank You for the wisdom and purpose of voluntary fasting. Help me to approach fasting with a sincere heart and a desire to seek Your face above all else. Teach me to put away earthly pleasures for the fulfillment found in communion with You. May my fasting be pleasing to You and lead to a deeper intimacy with You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Bible in 1 year: Deuteronomy 13-15