‘Prayer and Fasting’ – 1.22.2023

January 22, 2023
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16 “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. 17 But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. 18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.”  Matthew 6: 16-18 NLT

Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23 NIV

His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” John 2:5 NIV

All of us, like sheep, have strayed away.  We have left God’s paths to follow our own.  Isaiah 53:6 NLT

Fasting: Denying self of the natural to experience the supernatural; abstaining with spiritual goal in mind.

Jesus expected His followers would regularly fast.

Jesus replied, “Do wedding guests mourn while celebrating with the groom? Of course not. But someday the groom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast. Matthew 9:15 NLT

Fasting is an outward expression of inward humility.

… I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God… Ezra 8:21 NIV

So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 1 Peter 5:6 NLT

What Fasting is Not:

  • Display of Piety (Matthew 6:16-18)
  • Obligation: Done out of ritual/tradition (Matthew 15:8)
  • Substitute for disobedience in other areas (Isaiah 58:3)
  • Coercing God to yield to our will (Matthew 6:10)

Purpose In Fasting: (abstaining with spiritual goal in mind)

  • Intimacy with God

        Come close to God, and God will come close to you … James 4:8 NLT

  • Repentance

        That is why the Lord says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts.  Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning.” Joel 2:12 NLT

  • Spiritual Breakthrough

        Then, after doing all those things, I will pour out my Spirit upon all people… Joel 2:28a NLT

Types of Fast:

  • Selective (abstain from sweets, meat, etc.)
  • Partial (certain hours of day)
  • Behavioral (social media, TV, etc.)
  • Complete (liquid only)

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

Next Steps…

  • Begin a relationship with Jesus Christ.
  • Seek God’s direction incorporating disciplined fasting.
  • Act on the area you just need to “Do whatever He tells you”.
Next Steps

Handbook & Welcome Packet

•    The parent must complete the necessary registration forms and pay a non-refundable Annual materials fee. This covers registration fees, book, and materials for class.

•    The parent must provide the center with a pre-school/child immunization certificate, or Blue Slip. This is to be kept updated, if it is not, the center will send out a notice stating that the required immunizations are out dated. The form can be obtained through the health department or your pediatrician.

•    The parent will receive a copy of the policies and procedures and will go over them thoroughly. The parent will sign the Parental Agreement form which indicates policies and procedures and agreed upon fees.

•    All enrollment forms, including a Schedule Information Form, must be completed by the parent and returned to the center by the first day of attendance.

•    Parents of children with special needs or handicaps must inform the director of the child’s condition(s) prior to enrollment so it can be determined if the center can adequately meet the needs of the child. This is necessary for the well being of the child.

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