My post-COVID-19 journey led me to stop. God led me to meditate on Isaiah 58 often and it initiated an intimate dialogue with God about fasting and justice! I share my own fasting journey on this blog and hope you leave inspired and motivated for a specific vision and a plan for action for your life. God will do the rest!
One of the hardest spiritual disciplines is to fast or deny yourself. Fast from food. Fast from a bad habit. Fast from screen-time. As someone who has tried fasting during Lent or as part of a diet program or just because I’m desperate for a change, I can relate to the cries of the Israelites.
Israelites: Why have we fasted and You do not see us? Why have we humbled ourselves and You do not notice? (Isaiah 58:3a)
God: When you fast you look for answers for your own fleshly desires, not to get My attention. I do see you. You mistreat the people in your life. I want you to be gentle and respectful to everyone, always. I don’t want a show put on for others, with sackcloth and ashes.(Isaiah 58:3b-7)
When have you felt like fasting or prayer made no difference and God didn’t see or hear you?
In the Bible, fasting is often coupled with prayer. In Isaiah 58, God adds another dimension: Humble service.
When you deny yourself, connect with God in private. But in public, continue to serve others.
Father God, You care for me and You care for Your people. Help me to choose a fast that allows me more time to reach out to You in prayer. Show me how to be gentle and respectful to everyone I meet. Amen.
happy hunger 
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