Pursuit 21
January 14 – February 4, 2010
21 Days of Prayer & Fasting
Dear Friend,
We here at Shades of Grace believe the best way to begin the New Year is by honoring God with a 21-day fast. “I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship” (Romans 12:1).When we minister to God through fasting and prayer, He meets us in special ways.
Perhaps you have deep longings for 2010–things you want God to do in your life, a loved one’s life…or your business or ministry.
Fasting during this first month of the year sets the course for what God does in your life all year long. It brings you closer to God and releases His wisdom, guidance and blessing in every area of your life. Just as beginning our day with prayer sets the course for the rest of the day and affects anything that might happen, so beginning the year with a fast affects not only our inward relationship with God, but also circumstances and blessings throughout the entire year.
We give God the first of our day, the first of our week and the first of our income. Why not the first of the year? “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Mt. 6:33). Beloved, when we give God the the first of our year in prayer and fasting…he gives unto us all year long. During April, May, June…and even into December, we receive blessings that wouldn’t be ours if we hadn’t dedicated the first to God in January with a fast.
Fasting was never meant to be the rare practice that it is today among Christians. After Jesus called his disciples, He gave them their first public teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. In it He explained to them the kingdom of God–its laws and life. He provided the pattern by which each of us is to live as a child of God. This pattern mentions three specific responsibilities: giving, praying and fasting.
In this passage Jesus said, “When you give…”, “When you pray” and “When you fast.” He made it obvious that fasting is to be a regular part of the Christian life. He did not say “if you fast” but “when you fast.” We are to give as much focus and priority to fasting as we do to giving and praying
Jesus doesn’t expect us, His modern day disciples, to do something He didn’t do. Before launching His ministry, Jesus spent time in fasting and prayer. How can we expect to launch into 2010 without the same? If the Word of God–the One who spoke this world into being–found fasting necessary in God’s economy, then who are we to try to live by any other standard? Who are we to think that we can attempt to live without it?
Jesus said in John 13,”You address me as ‘Teacher’ and ‘Master,’ and rightly so. That is what I am…I’ve laid down a pattern for you. What I’ve done, you do…A servant is not ranked above his master…If you understand what I’m telling you, act like it – and live a blessed life.”
Beloved, I want to live a blessed life, don’t you? And blessings are released in the supernatural realm when we fast. We come to know God in deeper, fuller, more intimate ways! He gives us wisdom and insight about His plan for our lives…and the specific actions that will bring it about. The bondage of sin is broken. Relationships are restored. Heavy burdens are lifted. Obstacles are surmounted. We experience financial blessing…supernatural healing…and so much more! An anointing of God’s presence descends upon the entire year!
Making prayer and fasting a regular, habitual part of our lives is central to a life full of the Holy Spirit. “24And those who belong to Christ Jesus (the Messiah) have crucified the flesh (the godless human nature) with its passions and appetites and desires. 25If we live by the [Holy] Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit” (Galatians 5:24-25, emphasis added).
Isaiah 58:6 declares that the chosen fast will “set the oppressed free and break every yoke.” As we are living in tough economic times, I know that many people are under tremendous financial burden. As we come together to fast and pray, I am believing God to lift your burdens and release financial blessing into your life in 2010.
I am excited that you have decided to experience the life-changing principle of fasting. Seek the Lord and let your decisions about your fast come from Him. Ask Him to show you areas to target during your time of fasting and prayer. Have a clear goal before you begin as to the length and type of fast…and enter it determined to remain committed. Be ready to grow in your walk with Christ and experience Him like never before.
Please take a moment to let me know that you are participating in Pursuit 21. I want to lift you up in prayer as you fast. You may also choose to receive inspirational messages and devotions to encourage you in your commitment. I’m looking forward to pursuing Christ with you these 21 days and experiencing God’s promised reward: “He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” Hebrews 11:6.
P.S. We will launch Pursuit 21 at Passionate Pursuit, January 14th. The fast will conclude with a powerful evening of worship and celebration of what God has done during the fast – February 4, 2010. I hope you can join us!
