Sunday 6 September 2015

1 Peter 4:1-2 « Therefore, since Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same attitude (for whoever suffers in the flesh has broken with sin), so as not to spend what remains of one’s life in the flesh on human desires, but on the will of God. » (NAB)

Welcome to the Daniel Fast of 2015.  The theme this year is Conquer the Forbidden Fruit.  And we are sure that this fast will be the most significant you have ever done.  So we want to take this first day of the fast to prepare your heart for what the Holy Spirit will be doing in your life over the next three weeks.

STEP 1: What do you believe God wants to do in your life over the next three weeks?  Without a target, your faith won’t know what to shoot at.  So you need several personal objectives for this time of seeking the face of God.  You should establish at least three personal goals for these 21 days of prayer and fasting.  Think about what you would like to see changed in your life spiritually.  Perhaps you want to get closer to God.  Perhaps there is a cyclical sin in your life you want to get victory over.  You might have other goals that are more material, emotional or even financial.  Remember, God wants to change everything in your life, not just your time in the word and prayer.  Get a pen right now and turn to the blank pages at the end of this prayer guide and write down your personal objectives.

STEP 2: If you have not already decided how you are going to honor the Lord in this fast you should do that now.  What foods are you giving up during this period?  What sources of entertainment are you giving up?  What appointments with God are your going to establish.

STEP 3: There is such power during this fast because the entire church is doing it.  Find a friend, a brother or sister in Christ, or a family member and fix a time every week to pray together about what God is doing in your lives.

STEP 4: Mark on your calendar the prayer meetings for the entire church.  And make every effort to be physically present.  If you cannot get to the church building you can connect to the prayer meeting on line.  Check times and settings in the announcement insert.