DEVOTION ~ WHY DO YOU FAST?

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Theme: Why Do You Fast? 

Text: Mark 2:18

18 The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were fasting. Then they came and said to Him, “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?”



Do you fast alone or join a corporate fast? What is your reason for fasting and what is your reaction when others fail to fast? The disciples of John the Baptist did not understand why the disciples of Jesus never fasted like how they did with the Pharisees. To clear the air they decided to ask Jesus. Fast is an essential tool in the Christian walk with the Lord because the spiritual strength of the believer is empowered when he denies himself to have communion with God. Self-denial ranges from reducing or not watching television, fidgeting with phones, playing games, and giving up coffee, amongst other habits that consume our time and we are unable to have fellowship with God. The aim is not just to show how genuine we can be in denying ourselves these pleasures but how well we can align our ways to the path of truth and in the will of God. 

When we deny ourselves, it should also have an impact on our attitudes even after the fast so that we can have ceaseless fellowship with God. Often we are discouraged when we see others not fasting while we are all on the same page to journey with the Lord. Let not the actions of others deter you from continuing your fast. Although a corporate fast, each one is accountable to God. Do not be judgmental when others are not fasting but rather encourage them in a godly way to draw closer to God through fasting. Do not also announce your fasting to the world let it be between you and God. 



PRAYER: Almighty God, give me more insight on why I must fast, and how best I must go about it for Your glory. May I not take offense when others around me fail to fast but rather encourage them to do it. I surrender my life totally to You Lord, where I have failed to surrender to You, I pray the Holy Spirit to help me overcome it. This I ask in the Name of Jesus Christ. AMEN!           

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