Is this the Fast....Day 1- Fasting Brings Balance

Isaiah 58 is a chapter that outlines the fast of the Lord. When a fast is called something should happen. First to each individual, to the corporate body and then spill into the nation.

Fast are called to turn our attention back to God. It is during that time that we seek God, and intercede for ourselves and others. There is also one area that I think we often neglect or do not consider when fasting; and that is fasting brings us to balance.

Balance can be defined as bodily equilibrium, mental and emotional stability; harmony.

Fasting will bring us back to balance physically, mentally and emotionally. It will bring harmony and center us once again. So many people in the body of Christ are off balance and out of sync spiritually and physically because of over indulgence of food and drink. We are intaking larger quantities of processed and sugary foods, and consuming large amounts of salt. We have sent our hearts, kidney and pancreas into overdrive.

By fasting we allow our bodies time to rest, our organs to rest, our intestines to heal and cleanse, our minds will rest and all the pollutants to empty out of us. I'm convinced that too much toxins in our body is causing many to be depressed, sick, and worn down.

• Isaiah 54:8 says your light shall spring forth- clarity of mind. Fasting will draw us out of our depressive state and fogginess of mind.
• Isaiah 54:8- your healing will spring forth- the body is designed to heal itself. It has been documented that fasting for at least three days (total) causes the body to begin healing itself. Fasting will regulate the body and bring it back to harmony and balance as the organs have a chance to heal and rest.
• Isaiah 54:11- And strengthen your bones- many in the body of Christ are experiencing arthritis and deterioration of their bones. Fasting will bring strength to the bones and healing to the joints and marrow.

It is God's desire that as we seek him during our time of fasting, that we will be healed and made whole spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally.

SELAH!            

Instructions for 40-Day Fast- Beginning January 2, 2012- February 10, 2012

Read: Isaiah 58:1-13- The Fast of the Lord;
Sanctify yourself- 2 Timothy 2:21; Exodus 19:22

• The fast is 40-days from 6 am until 6 pm.
• No pork or beef to be eaten during this time. Meats you can have are chicken, fish and turkey.
• No dairy products: milk, cheese, yogurt, etc. You may use eggs and butter (margarine)
• No sugary foods, drinks or snacks.
• Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables.
• Any food or beverages you purchase should have 10g of sugar or less.
• No watching t.v. or listening to secular music. There should be time dedicated for prayer, meditation and study of God's Word daily. We encourage you to watch Christian videos, programs and to listen to Christian music.
• You can drink water or juice during the hours of the fast to stay hydrated.
• If you are pregnant or taking medications, please use wisdom. Keep crackers or fruit handy.
• This is a time to draw near to God and time of sanctification. Time of breaking through, deliverance and healing. Be specific in your prayer time about what you want.
• Keep a journal noting what you prayed, God's reponse to you after you prayed, answers to prayer, dreams that occur during this time, your thoughts, inspiration, etc.

There is no "fast police". Do as much as you can for as long as you can. But, whatever you do, do it unto the Lord.