Day 20: Obedience to the Spirit
Fasting quiets the noise of the world so we can hear and obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit — even when it's costly. Jesus says in Matthew 6:16, “When you fast…” not IF you fast. Fasting is a spiritual discipline all Christians must appropriate into their rhythms of life. Yet, fasting is a topic that is often overlooked in Western Church culture. It is looked at as extreme or radical and not as important as other disciplines, such as tithing or praying.
In Matthew 9:15, Mark 2:20, and Luke 5:35, Jesus says that his disciples won't fast while He is with them. However, a time will come when He is taken away, and then they will fast. We are in that time. Are you remaining obedient to the call to fast? Are you remaining obedient to where the Spirit is leading you in other areas of your life?
The Word of God is the standard. Jesus is the standard. So, why do we settle for less? Why is it so hard for us to listen to His Word and what He is asking of us?
Culture, our flesh, and Satan all work to water down the weight of His commands.
To follow Jesus, we must listen and obey. We must deny ourselves and obey His Word—no matter the cost. Fasting trains our will to submit. As we yield to the Holy Spirit, obedience to His Spirit becomes less about striving and more about trusting that His way is best.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You are wonderful. You are the King of kings, ruler of the world - creator of Heaven and earth. God, thank You for the power of the cross. Thank You that Your blood shed on the cross atones for my sins so I can approach You with boldness and gladness. Your mercies are new every morning. I give You my life today. I crucify my flesh today. I ask You, Holy Spirit, to empower me and strengthen me. Help me listen to You and obey Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Join us for a 6-week online book study of Derek Prince’s “Shaping History Through Prayer and Fasting” starting July 8, 2025. We will meet each week on Zoom from 5:00-6:30pm CT. The online book study will conclude on August 12, 2025.
We want to hear your fasting testimony! Email info@triumphofhope.com to share your story.
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