An Invitation to Pursuit 21
Dear Friend,
Can you believe that another year is already here? Perhaps you have deep longings for the coming year—things you want God to do in your life, a loved one’s life…or your business or ministry.
There is something you can do in this first month of the year that will set the course for what God does in your life all year long– something that will bring you closer to God and release His wisdom, guidance and blessing in every area of your life.
There is no better way to begin the year than with a Biblical fast. Just as beginning our day with prayer sets the course for the rest of the day and affects anything that might happen, so beginning the year with a fast affects not only our inward relationship with God, but also circumstances and blessing throughout the entire year.
We give God the first of our day, the first of our week and the first of our income. Why not the first of the year?“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Mt. 6:33). When we give God the the first of our year in prayer and fasting…he gives unto us all year long. During April, May, June…and even into December, we receive blessings that wouldn’t be ours if we hadn’t dedicated the first to God in January with a fast.
Fasting was never meant to be the rare practice that it is today among Christians. After Jesus called his disciples, He gave them their first public teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. In it He explained to them the kingdom of God–its laws and life. He provided the pattern by which each of us is to live as a child of God. This pattern mentions three specific responsibilities: giving, praying and fasting.
In this passage Jesus said, “When you give,” “When you pray,” and “When you fast.” He made it obvious that fasting is to be a regular part of the Christian life. He did not say “if you fast” but “when you fast.” We are to give as much focus and priority to fasting as we do to giving and praying
Jesus doesn’t expect us, His modern day disciples, to do something He didn’t do. If the Word of God—the One who spoke this world into being—found fasting necessary in God’s economy, then who are we to try to live by any other standard? Who are we to think that we can attempt to live without it? In Fasting, Jentezen Franklin asks a poignant question:
“If Jesus could have accomplished all He came to do without fasting, why would He fast? The Son of God fasted because He knew there were supernatural things that could only be released that way. How much more should fasting be a common practice in our lives.”
Jesus said in John 13,”You address me as ‘Teacher’ and ‘Master,’ and rightly so. That is what I am … I’ve laid down a pattern for you. What I’ve done, you do…If you understand what I’m telling you, act like it – and live a blessed life.”
I want to live a blessed life, don’t you? And blessings are released in the supernatural realm when we fast. He gives us wisdom and insight about His plan for our lives…and the specific actions that will bring it about. The bondage of sin is broken. Relationships are restored. Heavy burdens are lifted. Obstacles are surmounted. We experience financial blessing…supernatural healing…and so much more! An anointing of God’s presence descends upon the entire year!
I would like to personally invite you to join me for Pursuit 21—twenty-one days of prayer and fasting, giving God the first of the year. I believe God wants to do something special in your life that will not occur apart from fasting and prayer. “This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting” (Mt. 17:21). I encourage you to join me in Pursuit 21, a powerful, unrivaled spiritual launching pad for the new year.
I have already begun praying for you, that you will hear the Holy Spirit’s voice as to how He wants you to fast. You might like to visit our Pursuit 21 web pages for helpful information about the different kinds of fasts…and for teaching and encouragement.
Don’t panic! You don’t have to go without food the entire 21 days…unless you choose. Regardless of whether you have fasted before, I believe the Holy Spirit will enable you to fast in some manner, either partially or in full, (or a combination of both) for these 21 days. Just begin seeking His will and respond in obedience…trusting that He will give you the ability. And He will!!
Fasting with friends is powerful…and so much easier as well. Just knowing that others are fasting with you is incredibly helpful! That’s why I believe this is the perfect opportunity for us to fast together—to reap spiritual benefit and have the support system of fasting with friends.
I am excited for what God has in store for us individually and corporately as we begin the year with fasting and prayer! I’ve already heard from many who have been following my tweets and Facebook posts about Pursuit 21! Holy anticipation is in their hearts as we seek God diligently, knowing He will reward openly…all year long!
“…for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” Hebrews 11:6 (emphasis added).
Your Sister in Christ,
P.S. Don’t forget there is more Pursuit 21 information online – including information about the different types of fasts and helpful tips as well.
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Just started a 21 day fast and found your blog posts regarding fasting. Looking forward to using them along the journey. Thank you!
Thanks, Chris! I pray the content will be helpful to you. May God draw near to you as you draw near to Him through this season of fasting! May He give you the strength and grace needed to keep your fast, and may He speak to you and reveal Himself to you like never before!