The Wonders of Fasting and Prayer
Matthew 6:16-18, Luke 4:1-2, Acts 13:2-3
Introduction: Fasting and prayer are powerful tools that can bring about spiritual growth, breakthroughs, and miracles. Today, we'll explore the wonders of fasting and prayer, and how they can transform our lives and ministries.
Scripture: Matthew 6:16-18 "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
Message: Jesus teaches us to fast with the right motives and attitude, seeking God's approval rather than human recognition.
Scripture: Luke 4:1-2 "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry."
Message: Jesus' fasting and prayer in the wilderness prepared Him for His ministry and empowered Him to overcome temptation.
Scripture: Acts 13:2-3 "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off."
Message: The church in Antioch fasted and prayed, seeking God's guidance, and the Holy Spirit directed them to send out Barnabas and Saul on their missionary journey.
Prayer Points:
Lord, teach me to fast with the right motives and attitude, seeking Your approval alone (Matthew 6:16-18).
Empower me, Lord, to overcome temptation and prepare me for my ministry through fasting and prayer (Luke 4:1-2).
Guide me, Holy Spirit, as I fast and pray, and direct me into Your will for my life and ministry (Acts 13:2-3).
Thank You, God, for the wonders of fasting and prayer that bring spiritual growth, breakthroughs, and miracles.
Help me, Lord, to continually seek You through fasting and prayer, and may my life and ministry be transformed for Your glory.
Conclusion: Fasting and prayer are powerful tools that can bring about spiritual growth, breakthroughs, and miracles. As we seek God through fasting and prayer, we can trust Him to guide us, empower us, and use us for His glory. May the wonders of fasting and prayer transform our lives and ministries, and may we bring honor and glory to God.
