This morning I am just thinking about the peace and freedom from anxiety that Jesus promised us. That is part of the blessing of fasting and praying. When we are spiritually minded we will have peace.
Romans 8:5-7 (New King James Version)
5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.
Last year as part of my studies on fasting I read a book by Pastor Bob Rodgers (Evangel World Prayer Center, Louisville, KY) titled 101 Reasons to Fast. Here are some points from his book:
Reason #13 FASTING WAS A PATTERN JESUS SET BEFORE US
After Jesus was baptized in the Holy Spirit, He fasted for 40 days in the wilderness. He also taught on fasting in Matthew 6, 9, and 17; Mark 2 and 9; and Luke 5 and 18.
Jesus set the pattern for all believers to follow by seeking God with fasting.
Reason #17 JESUS SAID FASTING GIVES BELIEVERS POWER TO CAST OUT DEVILS
"This kind comes forth by nothing but by prayer and fasting". Mark 9:29
Reason #26 FASTING BRINGS BLESSING TO THE WHOLE CHURCH
When one fasts privately there is an anointing for whatever the individual's need is. However, if one fasts with a body of believers there are many needs represented-sickness, financial crisis, family problems, etc. There is now an anointing for all these blessings to manifest to the entire church body. There are greater spiritual, physical, and financial blessings in the church than before.
Reason #27 FASTING BRINGS A CHURCH INTO UNITY MORE THAN ANY OTHER METHOD
Reason #38 FASTING HELPS ONE GET THE VICTORY OVER SINS OF THE FLESH
The precious blood of Jesus cleanses us from all our sins. However, often there are sins of the flesh such as uncontrolled anger, lust, and other habits that must be conquered. Fasting helps get the victory over these sins of the flesh.
THE FOLLOWING PASSAGE IS FROM PASTOR RODGERS' FASTING MESSAGE THIS YEAR:
"It is our right to have a supernatural relationship with God. This relationship in its fullest requires the discipline of fasting. Fasting is at one level, simply abstaining from food. At a higher level, however, it is a tool given by God to His people to position them for the release of His supernatural power. I invite you to join with me, with miraculous consequences in mind, to make this covenant before God for 21 days faithfully seek His will, His power and His presence for your life through prayer and fasting".
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