Focusing on fasting – Verses for mediation

Joel 2:12–13 (NLT)

¹² That is why the Lord says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. ¹³ Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.” Return to the Lord your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish.

Matthew 6:16 (NLT)

¹⁶ “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get.

Acts 13:2–3 (NLT)

² One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” ³ So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.

Prayer Prompts:

Ask God to show you if you should fast during this season of prayer.

Ask God to show you how you should fast.

Option 1: Abstain from food for a meal, for one day a week, etc.

Option 2: Adopt a restricted diet for a period of time.

Option 3: Abstain from a specific activity to free up time for prayer.

If you are fasting, ask God to guard your heart from pride.

What is God saying to me?