21 Days of Prayer and Fasting

21 Days of Prayer and Fasting: Why & How
The start of a new year is a sacred opportunity—a moment to pause, reflect, and set the tone for what lies ahead. 21 days of prayer and fasting is about more than just starting the new year well; it’s about intentionally making space for God to work in our lives. This dedicated time of seeking Him is a powerful way to reset our hearts, refocus our priorities, and renew our commitment to His plans and purposes.

Why Are We Doing 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting?
So why devote 21 days to prayer and fasting? This isn’t just about a practice or discipline—it’s a spiritual journey. These 21 days are a time to step back from the noise of life and lean into God’s presence. Prayer connects us to God, while fasting helps us disconnect from worldly distractions.

By choosing to fast, we’re not just giving something up; we’re creating space for something far greater. Whether you’re seeking guidance for the year ahead, praying for a breakthrough, or simply longing to draw closer to God, this is a time to recalibrate. As we intentionally focus on Him, we’re reminded of His promises and faithfulness.

Biblical Foundations for Prayer and Fasting
The Bible offers countless examples of prayer and fasting, highlighting how these practices draw people closer to God and align them with His will:

• Seeking Guidance: "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." (Jeremiah 33:3) God invites us to seek His wisdom and direction. When we’re unsure of the path ahead, prayer and fasting open our hearts to His leading.
• Cultivating Intimacy: Jesus Himself fasted and prayed, modeling dependence on God. "But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Matthew 6:17-18) This reminds us that fasting is not about outward appearances but about a sincere heart seeking intimacy with God.
• Returning to God: "Yet even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning." (Joel 2:12) Fasting is a way to return to God with humility and repentance, aligning our hearts with His.

What Does Prayer and Fasting Look Like?
Prayer and fasting can take many forms. The key is to approach it with intentionality and a heart open to God. Here are a few ways to structure your 21 days:

1. Choose Your Fast: Fasting doesn’t always mean abstaining from food entirely. You might choose a partial fast (like skipping certain meals or foods), a Daniel fast (eating only fruits and vegetables), or a media fast (stepping away from social media, TV, or other distractions). Whatever you choose, let it be something that helps you focus on God.
2. Set Aside Time for Prayer: Whether it’s morning devotions, mid-day reflections, or evening prayer, carve out consistent time to talk to God. Use this time to thank Him, confess, seek guidance, and intercede for others.
3. Meditate on Scripture: Let God’s Word be your guide during this season. Reflect on passages like Isaiah 58:6-12, Matthew 6:16-18, or Psalm 63:1. Journaling your thoughts can deepen your understanding and make your prayers more focused.
4. Engage in Worship: Worship is a vital part of prayer and fasting. Play worship music, sing praises, or simply sit in awe of who God is. Worship aligns our hearts with His and reminds us of His greatness.

Why Is Prayer and Fasting Important?
Fasting, paired with prayer, is a tool for personal transformation and spiritual growth. Here’s why it matters:

• It Realigns Our Priorities: When we fast, we’re reminded that our ultimate satisfaction comes not from what we consume but from God alone. "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4)
• It Builds Our Faith: Fasting strengthens our dependence on God. When we deny ourselves, we make room for Him to move in powerful ways. This act of surrender is a declaration of trust.
• It Positions Us for Breakthrough: Throughout Scripture, fasting is often connected with breakthrough moments—whether it’s deliverance, protection, or healing. When we fast, we’re not twisting God’s arm; we’re aligning ourselves with His will and making space for Him to work.
• It Deepens Our Relationship with God: Prayer and fasting create an environment where we can hear God’s voice more clearly and experience His presence more profoundly.

As we enter these 21 days of prayer and fasting, remember that you’re not walking this journey alone. Together, as a church family, we’re seeking God’s direction and strength. Let’s encourage one another, share our experiences, and celebrate what God is doing in our lives.

Take these 21 days one step at a time. Whatever your experience with fasting is, God honors your heart and your desire to draw near to Him. He sees your sacrifice and your prayers, and He promises to meet you in this sacred space.

Let’s approach this season with expectancy, knowing that the same God who moved mountains in Scripture is still moving today. Together, let’s reset, refocus, and renew—trusting that He has incredible plans for each of us in the days ahead.