Victory Christian Center

As we head into the final glorious week of our First Fruits Fast, let's remember the reasons why we decided to seek God in the first place.

Ezra 8:21-23 (New King James Version)
Fasting and Prayer for Protection
21 Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way for us and our little ones and all our possessions. 22 For I was ashamed to request of the king an escort of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy on the road, because we had spoken to the king, saying, “The hand of our God is upon all those for good who seek Him, but His power and His wrath are against all those who forsake Him.” 23 So we fasted and entreated our God for this, and He answered our prayer.Throughout 2009 we are going to have times when we have to make important decisions. About our families, our jobs, our finances.

The vision verse for the fast is here in Ezra 8. We are seeking God for direction, protection, and provision. I know that there will be many times this year when I need help from the Lord to make the right decision. I want my spirit to be sensitive to hear from Him.

Romans 8:13-14 (New King James Version)
13 For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

The Holy Spirit wants us to be sensitive. I believe with all my heart that every born again believer wants to hear clearly from God. But we have to fight for that sensitivity. We are distracted by the world and tempted when we are drawn away by our own lusts (James 1:14). Prayer and fasting is how we fight for our spirits to be led by the Spirit of God.

Practical Tip

This time of prayer and fasting can serve as inspiration for the whole year. Any time you find yourself in a crisis, or you know you must hear from God about a decision, you will know you can fast and pray and fight for your spirit to be sensitive. Praise God for His faithfulness to us. His desire is for us to stay close to Him and walk in His perfect will.