The Discipline of Fasting
"Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified." – 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 NKJV
Periodically, the Lord leads us to fast so that His Spirit, rather than our flesh, can rule us. There is a constant war between the flesh and the spirit. Though the flesh should never dominate us, we face ongoing temptations. The discipline of fasting, when led by the Spirit of God, equips us to walk victoriously in this daily battle.
What our flesh desires varies from person to person. Fasting isn’t always about food or drink; for some, it might mean abstaining from watching TV, surfing the web, playing games, speaking negatively, or even specific relationships. Identifying and saying no to one area of fleshly desire can prepare us to overcome other temptations.
Regularly saying no to our stomachs or other cravings strengthens us to resist temptations in all areas of life. A beneficial fast focuses on surrendering what our body desires most to the Lord. The key is to seek His guidance on how and what to fast, whether individually or corporately. As we obey His leading, we are strengthened and empowered to walk in the Spirit— from glory to glory!
Periodically, the Lord leads us to fast so that His Spirit, rather than our flesh, can rule us. There is a constant war between the flesh and the spirit. Though the flesh should never dominate us, we face ongoing temptations. The discipline of fasting, when led by the Spirit of God, equips us to walk victoriously in this daily battle.
What our flesh desires varies from person to person. Fasting isn’t always about food or drink; for some, it might mean abstaining from watching TV, surfing the web, playing games, speaking negatively, or even specific relationships. Identifying and saying no to one area of fleshly desire can prepare us to overcome other temptations.
Regularly saying no to our stomachs or other cravings strengthens us to resist temptations in all areas of life. A beneficial fast focuses on surrendering what our body desires most to the Lord. The key is to seek His guidance on how and what to fast, whether individually or corporately. As we obey His leading, we are strengthened and empowered to walk in the Spirit— from glory to glory!
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