Prayer & Fasting 2022 // Day 1

Pastor Stephen Perumalla

January 17, 2022

“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 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 6:16-18 (ESV)

I’ve had a practice in my life since becoming a Christian 22 years ago of starting the new year off with an extended fast. This has been a key discipline that I am convinced has brought about blessings, breakthrough, and protection throughout the year. It has been a source of spiritual protection against the attacks of the enemy in the unseen realm. I am certain there are many good things that I am unaware of that have happened in my life because I’ve started the year with a rhythm of prayer and fasting.

Jesus’ language here in this passage suggests that fasting ought to be a regular spiritual discipline for the believer. Notice that He doesn’t say if you fast, He says, “when you fast…” In fact, He says it twice to emphasize it even more. There is an assumption here that fasting is a regular rhythm in the life of the believer. Unfortunately, fasting is the secret weapon in the believer’s arsenal that is rarely used. 

If you’re on the fence about whether you want to join us for our 10 days of prayer and fasting, seeing in this passage how Jesus felt about it might be the necessary prod that you need in order for you to go for it! If you’ll commit to joining us on our fast the next 10 days, I believe that you are going to see God move in your life in incredible ways! Dan Thurmon said, “If you limit yourself to what is comfortable, you’ll deny yourself what is possible.” I believe this principle is true for you when it comes to this fast. It’s up to you to choose whether you want to stay comfortable or see what’s possible as you trust the Lord in a new way this year. 

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Stephen