Advancement in life and purpose is tied directly to empowerment. Without empowerment, there can be no meaningful progress. It takes power for things to work, and when power goes out, everything seems to stand still. This principle applies not only in the physical realm but also in the spiritual.
Prayer and fasting are essential tools for maximizing empowerment. In fact, during seasons of power and divine help, fasting and prayer become indispensable.
The Necessity of Prayer and Fasting
In Matthew 9:14-15, Jesus emphasized the need for fasting during specific seasons. Similarly, Matthew 17:15-21 reveals the limitations of human effort without the backing of spiritual power, which comes through prayer and fasting.
There are certain challenges, referred to as “this kind” in Matthew 17:21, that only yield to the combined force of prayer and fasting. This spiritual adventure connects you to divine power and fire, equipping you for victory and breakthrough.
Power: The Key to Rulership
According to Psalm 110:1-2, power is designed for rulership. To lead effectively, you must be spiritually empowered.
To preach well, you must pray well.
To encounter power, you need persistent prayer.
How you speak to God is far more critical than how you speak to men. Your relationship with God outweighs public relations.
The secret to greatness is God with you. Prayer presses your desires into God's hands, while fasting amplifies the results.
The Benefits of Fasting and Prayer
Fasting is a spiritual catalyst that accelerates your answers. Whatever prayer can achieve, fasting facilitates. Here are some key benefits:
1. Spiritual Renewal:
Just as devices need to be recharged, your spiritual battery requires renewal. Isaiah 40:31 describes waiting on the Lord as a platform for renewing strength.
2. Spiritual Empowerment:
Fasting enhances your spiritual power bank, increasing your capacity for divine exploits.
3. Mental Soundness:
Fasting sharpens your mind and improves mental clarity. In Daniel 1:20, we see that Daniel and his companions were ten times better in wisdom because of their disciplined lifestyle.
4. Revelation Knowledge:
On the altar of prayer and fasting, hidden things are revealed, and mysteries are unlocked. This is evident in Daniel’s life, where he gained insight into the thoughts of others through consistent prayer.
Making Your Fasting and Prayer Profitable
For fasting and prayer to be effective, they must be approached with the right mindset and preparation. Here are steps to ensure profitable engagement:
1. Define Your Goals:
Clearly outline your objectives for fasting and prayer. Proverbs 16:1 reminds us that planning comes from the heart, but God establishes the results.
2. Engage Your Heart in Prayer:
Come before God with a list of prayer points and focus your heart on His presence.
3. Confess and Forsake Sin:
Sin disconnects us from God. Before approaching Him, confess your sins and seek forgiveness. God does not store prayers; He processes them, but only if the connection is intact.
4. Approach God with Boldness:
Approach the throne of grace with confidence, not as a beggar. Hebrews 4:16 and 1 John 5:14 emphasize the importance of boldness in prayer.
Conclusion
The results of your fasting and prayer should be evident in your life. When approached correctly, fasting and prayer will empower you spiritually, renew your strength, sharpen your mind, and accelerate answers to your requests.
Embrace this spiritual discipline today and watch as God moves swiftly in your direction!
