Prayer and Fasting Guide Lent 2020 - Wilson...
Transcript of Prayer and Fasting Guide Lent 2020 - Wilson...
Prayer and Fasting Guide Lent 2020
Lent and Fasting
Lent is a special season within the Christian calendar year which provides a
period of time for reflection, repentance, and preparation. Lent is also an
ideal time for prayer and fasting. It is a season of spiritual preparation in
which we remember Christ’s temptation, suffering, and death. Historically,
the church has celebrated Lent as a 40-day period beginning on Ash
Wednesday (which begins February 26th) and concluding the day before
Easter. It is observed in many Christian churches as a time to
commemorate the last week of Jesus’ life, his suffering (Passion), and his
death, through various observances and services of worship.
Many Christians use the 40 days of Lent as time to draw closer to the Lord
through prayer, fasting, repentance, and self-denial. In a culture of fast
food, instant gratification, and self-centeredness, one of the best ways to
get our eyes off of ourselves and back onto the Lord is through the
discipline of fasting. However, fasting has largely been disregarded and
forgotten in the comforts of the modern church and its people.
We want to change this this Lenten season.
So, What Is Fasting?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, fasting means to abstain from food;
especially to eat sparingly or not at all or abstain from certain foods in
observance of a religious duty or a token of grief. Fasting and religious
purposes cannot be separated because they are intricately intertwined. The
Bible gives us numerous references to individual and corporate fasts. There
were even certain days that were designated each year for fasting and
prayer. Fasting is a gift that God has given to the church in order to help us
persevere in prayer. Fasting draws us closer to God and gives power to our
prayers.
Reasons for Fasting
People have been fasting since the ancient days of the Bible. The Bible
records numerous accounts where people, cities, and nations have turned to
God by fasting and praying: Hannah grieved over infertility “wept and did
not eat” (1 Samuel 1:7); Anna, who was an elderly widow, saw Jesus in the
temple and “served God with fasting and prayer” (Luke 2:37). Saul
encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus, “was three days without sight,
neither ate or drank.” (Acts 9:9). Cornelius told Peter, “Four days ago I was
fasting until this hour…” (Acts 10:30). Most people fast for religious and
spiritual reasons, while others choose to fast for health reasons. There are
several specific reasons that the Bible tells us to fast.
1. To be Christ like. (Matthew 4:1-17; Luke 4:1-13).
2. To obtain spiritual purity. (Isaiah 58:5-7).
3. To repent from sins. (See Jonah 3:8; Nehemiah 1:4, 9:1-3; 1 Samuel
14:24).
4. To influence God. (2 Samuel 12:16-23).
5. To mourn for the dead. (1 Samuel 31:13; 2 Samuel 1:12).
6. To request God’s help in times of crisis and calamity. (Ezra 8:21-
23; Nehemiah 1:4-11).
7. To strengthen prayer. (Matthew 17:21; Mark 9:17-29; Acts 10:30;
1 Corinthians 7:5).
Types of Fasting
In the same way that God appointed times and seasons to fast, He also
designated several types of fasts. Because of certain medical problems, and
physical needs, there are different types of fasting. Not everyone can go on
an extended 5-7 day fast; in a similar way, not everyone can totally abstain
from food and water. A person should exercise wisdom and consult their
physician if they have any medical concerns before they fast, otherwise it
could actually be harmful to your health. However, there are at least three
types of individual fasts: absolute fast, solid food fast, and partial fast.
1. Absolute Fast An absolute fast is conducted by abstaining from all food and water for a
certain period of time. This is also known as the “total fast” because an
individual chooses to abstain from all foods and beverages. There are
several Biblical examples for the total fast. Moses and Elijah both
abstained from food and water for forty days and forty nights.
(Deuteronomy 9:9, 10:10, 18:25-29; 1 Kings 19:8). Although the Bible
says they fasted for forty days, many people usually only totally abstain
from food and water for three days.
2. Solid Food Fast A solid food fast is where an individual may drink juice and water, but
chooses not to eat solid food. Certain scholars and theologians think that
Jesus may have drank water while in the wilderness since the Bible doesn’t
say that he was thirsty after his forty day fast (see Matthew 4:2). Drinking
water while fasting for several days can actually be therapeutic for your
body. In any case, you should not fast for more than a week unless you
consult a doctor.
3. Partial Fast To fast simply means to “abstain” from something. A partial fast is where
you choose to abstain from certain foods and drinks instead of complete
abstinence of food or drink. The Bible tells us that Daniel abstained from
bread, water, and wine for twenty-one days (Daniel 10:3). Others may
choose to fast from television, computer, newspaper, and hobbies. This will
help you free up some time to spend in prayer and reflection.
What Jesus Said About Fasting
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught a lesson about how to fast and
how not to fast:
“Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad
countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to
men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so
that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your father who
is in the secret place; and your father who sees in secret will reward
you openly.” (Matthew 6:16-28)
We see that it is important not to brag or boast to others about fasting. The
Jews of Jesus’ day used fasting and giving to make everyone think that
they were more spiritual than others. But Jesus tells us that fasting should
be done in secret so that it can’t be used as a way of bringing glory to
ourselves.
Practical Steps for Fasting
There are several practical steps that you should follow before you begin
fasting:
1. You should decide which fast is better for you. As we said earlier,
due to health reasons not everyone can do a total fast, for example.
Also, sometimes work schedules and other duties may prevent an
individual from a certain type of fast. You may want to begin with a
partial fast and work your way to a total fast. Ultimately, you should
pray and ask God what His will would be for your fast.
2. Decide how long you want to fast. People in the Bible often chose to
fast for a certain period of time. To prepare their hearts for the
seasons, the early church would fast before Christmas and Easter.
3. You should consult a physician before you go on an extended fast. If you have any physical problems then you will certainly want to
follow this advice. Fasting can be healthy to the body when it is done
right, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t exercise wisdom.
4. Make sure that you take the time to pray. Although some people
fast for health reasons, it will not do you any spiritual good if don’t
allow yourself time to pray. It might be helpful to think of your
fasting time as an exploration in finding alternative sources of
sustenance (as you meditate on God’s word and pray with the aim of
listening for God’s voice).
5. Just do it! Many people never fast because they are afraid to do it or
because they have never done it before. Don’t let fear or inexperience
stop you from experiencing one of God’s greatest blessings. Probably
all of the great heroes of the faith spent many hours fasting and
praying unto the Lord.
Using This Prayer & Fasting Guide
Through the use of this Prayer and Fasting Guide, we will be encouraging
everyone to pray daily and fast each Wednesday of Lent. Each week you
will be provided a guiding prayer for you to pray each day that relates to
that week’s series focus. You will also be provided with several suggested
prayer topics to help you pray. Again, these are just suggestions. You
might find God leading you to pray for only one or two things on the list
that week, or you might add something of your own. We just want you
praying!
Each Wednesday you will be provided with a scripture passage [or
passages] that are meant to be your “daily bread” as you fast that day. Take
these and read them slowly as you start your day – listening for, and
expecting to hear from, God. Ask Him to search your heart and reveal what
needs healing and/or addressing. At lunchtime read the passage[s] again a
few more times, making note of words or phrases that stand out. As those
surface, pray to God asking him to speak, guide, nudge, encourage, and/or
challenge you. Take time to write what you hear God saying and begin to
act on those leadings. Be sure to pay attention to the circumstances and
conversations you have throughout the day (especially those in the Body of
Christ), as God may choose to speak through them as well.
Regarding how you fast on Wednesdays, we leave it to you to determine
your strategy. You might choose to fast dinner-to-dinner (skipping
breakfast and lunch on Wednesday), or you could skip lunch on
Wednesday. Or you might choose another form altogether. The invitation is
to intentionally set aside time for prayer and scripture reading, reflection,
and listening when you’d normally be eating or preparing meals.
Additional Fasting Resource!
Join our very own Dr. Susie Rivard on Sunday evenings at 7:30 pm
(February 23 and March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) on our church’s Facebook page
for a live stream event. Each week she will cover Biblical and scientific
issues of fasting. She will also give tips, offer advice, and answer your
questions.
Pride & Ash Wednesday, February 26- Saturday, February 29
Weekly Prayer:
O Model of humility, strip me of all pride and arrogance. Remind me of
my lowly state and enable me to acknowledge my weaknesses and
lingering sin. Grant that I might properly and rightly depend upon you
every moment of every day– a sinner in desperate need of your grace.
Amen.
Prayer Topics:
Hunger for God
Nation & Leaders
Give me a hunger to discover my spiritual gifts
Joy
Compassion
Show me where You want me serving
Show me how to be a better listener
Wednesday Fast: Feast on James 3:13 - 4:10 & Philippians 2:1-11
notes from my time in prayer and fasting
My observations:
How I sense God leading:
Envy &
Sunday, March 1 - Saturday, March 7
Weekly Prayer:
O Model of humility, strip me of all pride and arrogance. Remind me of
my lowly state and enable me to acknowledge my weaknesses and
lingering sin. Grant that I might properly and rightly depend upon you
every moment of every day– a sinner in desperate need of your grace.
O Exemplar of love, keep me from all envy, bitterness, discontent, and
striving. Let the grace of your love dwell in me that I may consider
others greater than myself and genuinely rejoice in the happiness and
success of others. Amen.
Prayer Topics:
To love others the way God loves them
Openness for God to challenge me to kindness
Patience for myself and others
Single parents
For those feeling loneliness
Wednesday Fast: Feast on Galatians 5:13-25 & Hebrews 12:1-3
notes from my time in prayer and fasting
My observations:
How I sense God leading:
Sloth &
Sunday, March 8 - Saturday, March 14
Weekly Prayer:
O Model of humility, strip me of all pride and arrogance. Remind me of
my lowly state and enable me to acknowledge my weaknesses and
lingering sin. Grant that I might properly and rightly depend upon you
every moment of every day– a sinner in desperate need of your grace.
O Exemplar of love, keep me from all envy, bitterness, discontent, and
striving. Let the grace of your love dwell in me that I may consider
others greater than myself and genuinely rejoice in the happiness and
success of others.
O zealous Lover of my soul, keep me from all sloth, apathy, and
indifference of mind or body. Inspire me with zeal for your glory, so that
I may delight in doing all things for you and in you. Amen.
Prayer Topics:
Give me opportunities to share my faith journey this week
Allow me to seek joy in difficulty
Grow faith in me and in others
For an opportunity to invite/share my faith with at least one person
this week
For opportunities to meet new people moving into the area this year
For those in the community who have no church to find one
Wednesday Fast: Feast on Romans 12:9-21
notes from my time in prayer and fasting
My observations:
How I sense God leading:
Anger &
Sunday, March 15 - Saturday, March 21
Weekly Prayer:
O Model of humility, strip me of all pride and arrogance. Remind me of
my lowly state and enable me to acknowledge my weaknesses and
lingering sin. Grant that I might properly and rightly depend upon you
every moment of every day– a sinner in desperate need of your grace.
O Exemplar of love, keep me from all envy, bitterness, discontent, and
striving. Let the grace of your love dwell in me that I may consider
others greater than myself and genuinely rejoice in the happiness and
success of others.
O zealous Lover of my soul, keep me from all sloth, apathy, and
indifference of mind or body. Inspire me with zeal for your glory, so that
I may delight in doing all things for you and in you.
O meek Savior and Prince of Peace, implant in me the virtues of
gentleness and patience. Let me curb the fury of anger and restrain all
resentment and impatience so as to overcome evil with good, attain your
peace, and rejoice in your love. Amen.
Prayer Topics:
Show me how to be a peace maker
Suicide- break the stronghold of hopelessness
Pray for those struggling with mental health issues
Pray for those in abusive relationships that the pattern be broken
Wednesday Fast: Feast on Matthew 18:21-35
notes from my time in prayer and fasting
My observations:
How I sense God leading:
Greed &
Sunday, March 22 - Saturday, March 28
Weekly Prayer:
O Model of humility, strip me of all pride and arrogance. Remind me of my
lowly state and enable me to acknowledge my weaknesses and lingering sin.
Grant that I might properly and rightly depend upon you every moment of
every day– a sinner in desperate need of your grace.
O Exemplar of love, keep me from all envy, bitterness, discontent, and
striving. Let the grace of your love dwell in me that I may consider others
greater than myself and genuinely rejoice in the happiness and success of
others.
O zealous Lover of my soul, keep me from all sloth, apathy, and indifference
of mind or body. Inspire me with zeal for your glory, so that I may delight in
doing all things for you and in you.
O meek Savior and Prince of Peace, implant in me the virtues of gentleness
and patience. Let me curb the fury of anger and restrain all resentment and
impatience so as to overcome evil with good, attain your peace, and rejoice in
your love.
O Father of the poor, help me to avoid all covetousness for earthly goods and
give me a love for heavenly things. Inspire me to give to the needy, just as
you gave your life that I might inherit eternal treasures. Amen.
Prayer Topics:
For those experiencing homelessness and how I can be a part of the
solution
Entrust all my finances to God
For those seeking employment
Sickness/Illness
Show me how I can be a support to individuals and families with
disabilities
Wednesday Fast: Feast on Luke 12:13-21 & Matthew 6:19-24
notes from my time in prayer and fasting
My observations:
How I sense God leading:
Glustony (Lust and Gluttony) &
Sunday, March 29 - Saturday, April 4 Weekly Prayer:
O Model of humility, strip me of all pride and arrogance. Remind me of my lowly state and
enable me to acknowledge my weaknesses and lingering sin. Grant that I might properly and
rightly depend upon you every moment of every day– a sinner in desperate need of your
grace.
O Exemplar of love, keep me from all envy, bitterness, discontent, and striving. Let the grace
of your love dwell in me that I may consider others greater than myself and genuinely rejoice
in the happiness and success of others.
O zealous Lover of my soul, keep me from all sloth, apathy, and indifference of mind or
body. Inspire me with zeal for your glory, so that I may delight in doing all things for you
and in you.
O meek Savior and Prince of Peace, implant in me the virtues of gentleness and patience. Let
me curb the fury of anger and restrain all resentment and impatience so as to overcome evil
with good, attain your peace, and rejoice in your love.
O Father of the poor, help me to avoid all covetousness for earthly goods and give me a love
for heavenly things. Inspire me to give to the needy, just as you gave your life that I might
inherit eternal treasures. O Teacher of abstinence, help me to serve you rather than my
appetites. Keep me from gluttony – the inordinate love of food and drink and let me hunger
and thirst for your justice.
O Lover of purity, remove all lust from my heart, so that I may serve you with a pure mind
and a chaste body.
O Jesus my Merciful Redeemer, my Loving Savior, my Divine Healer, all this I humbly pray
and ask in confidence to be filled with faith, hope, and trust, in Your Holy and Mighty
Name. Amen.
Prayer Topics:
For self-control in myself and others
Free me from a false sense of identity
Grant me wisdom and discernment
For those suffering from addiction that they might be freed from it, and for those who
have been hurt by others with addictions.
Protect our children & youth (students) from temptation
Teachers
Our leaders
Wednesday Fast: Feast on 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 & Matthew 5:27-30
notes from my time in prayer and fasting
My observations:
How I sense God leading:
Join us for our Holy Week sermon series:
Palm Sunday, April 5
Regular worship at 9:00 or 10:30 am
Wednesday Connect Cancelled, April 8
NO regularly scheduled Wednesday evening programming.
Maundy Thursday, April 9
Worship at 7:00 pm. Child care available.
Good Friday, April 10
Join us at 6:00 pm for a meal. After dinner we will be
showing the movie, “The Passion of the Christ.”
Child friendly options will be available.
Easter Sunday, April 12
* Please note the altered worship schedule * 7:00 am sunrise service: outdoor service as weather allows.
9:00 am worship service
10:15 am – 10:45 am: Community Egg Hunt
11:00 am (NOT regular 10:30) worship service
wilsonumc.org