Background About Fasting

OK, you've said some prayers for Adam. Now, you may be thinking, "Why do I need to fast?" You are not alone. I thought that way for about 50 years. I used to say, "I might get headaches. I might get dizzy. I might not be able to concentrate on my work. Holy cow, I might get hungry!"

I can say that it is challenging, but not impossible. In my experience, I have found fasting to be much easier than I thought before actually trying it.

What is fasting?

Fasting is the act of abstaining from food. There are various types or ways to fast. You can simply not eat or drink anything but water. A popular type of fast used during World Vision's 30-Hour Famine is a juice fast.

Why Fast?

It’s an opportunity for us to focus our thoughts, prayers and efforts on things most important to God. It’s a way to draw near to God. Practically speaking, it also provides some time for dedicated conversation with God. Instead of spending time eating, spend that time in prayer.

You will feel real hunger. When those pangs of hunger strike, send up a prayer. It may be one to thank God for all the wonderful provisions that we enjoy — that we don't have to experience hunger on a regular basis. Also, talk to God about Adam and his immediate family.

When you feel hunger, it is a reminder to stop and pray. Remember that this small sacrifice of not eating is an opportunity to more diligently pray for Adam's healing.

Alternatives to Fasting

Fasting should be a personal choice. If, for any reason (medical or otherwise), someone cannot participate in a fast this Thursday, please give careful consideration to one of these alternatives:

• Partial Fast - skip a meal (or two)

• Abstaining from something - skip the coffee (not sure if that's possible!:-), soda, or other daily indulgence

• Avoid talking for a period time (skip the breakroom chat)

• Fasting from media (no TV, movies, videos, radio, music, etc.)

The point is to sacrifice something, and use the extra time to pray. Just imagine, people from all across the country, lifting up Adam in prayer.

What the Bible Says about Fasting

Jesus fasted

Matthew 4:1-2

1Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. 2After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry.

Jesus fasted for 40 days. Surely we can make it through one day!

The early church fasted

Acts 13:1-3

1In the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen and Saul. 2While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." 3So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

We learn from the early church that fasting and prayer go together.

Do it so that nobody notices - keep it between God and you

Matthew 6:16-18 (Jesus speaking)

16"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 17But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Keep a smile on your face and go about your day as usual. When it comes time for lunch, for example, you might tell your co-workers that you have an important errand to do (you do). Go find a quiet place, such as a park, in your car (parked, not moving), or other place with no distractions (turn off cell phone). Spend that time reading some scripture, praying to God, and meditating. You will return to work more refreshed than by chowing down a sandwich and gulping down a Grande Frappacino.

What can our prayers accomplish?

Matthew 17:20-21

20He (Jesus) replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."