Day 11 Devotional: Fasting for Powerful Prayer
Day 11: Fasting to Be Powerful in Prayer
Now when Daniel learned that the document was signed, he entered his house (and in his roof chamber he had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and offering praise before his God, just as he had been doing previously. (Daniel 6:10)
In the Bible, fasting is always mentioned hand-in-hand with prayer. Without spiritual purpose and sustenance, fasting is just a diet and a work of physical discipline. But when people were moved to fast in the Bible, they also cried out to God in prayer.
Yesterday we talked about the armor of God and a passage of scripture ending with Ephesians 6:18 which says, “With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be alert with all perseverance and every request for all the saints.”
We fight and win the spiritual battle through PRAYER!
Daniel was particularly mighty in prayer. In Chapter six, he had risen in influence and King Darius appointed him as one of three commissioners in his kingdom (one of the top seats in government). Not everyone was pleased, however, and the other jealous officials plotted against him.
They were able to set a trap for Daniel based on his faith, knowing that wouldn't compromise his values and spiritual practices, one of which was to pray three times a day facing Jerusalem.
Even under threat, Daniel continued to pray, give thanks and make petition and supplication before his God. (Daniel 6:10-11) Other translations say he offered praise before God and implored favor.
Prayer is a discipline and a work of faith.
It took intention for Daniel to stop what he was doing three times a day, go home, and pray with deliberate focus. Can you imagine doing that every day?
When coupled with fasting, our prayers become even more powerful. As we turn away from the world, remove distractions, and press into God, our spiritual senses grow sharper.
Jesus’ disciples asked Him how to pray, and He gave them what we call “The Lord’s Prayer”. This is not a formula to be repeated verbatim, but principles for the manner in which to pray. Notice that Daniel gave thanks and made petitions and supplications (this second part is what we tend to jump directly to . . . asking God to give us what we want).
Does your prayer life highlight problems, or focus on God and the victory He ensures?
Let your prayer time not only be full of requests, but full of God’s presence. Invite Him in with worship and thanksgiving, let your soul be refreshed, and create a place of stillness to hear His voice.
Your Journey
Based on Matthew 6:5-14, we see that in powerful prayers we . . .
Give thanks to God
Worship and praise God for who He is, our Father
Confess our sins and unforgiveness
Ask for forgiveness and healing
Pray for the kingdom to come and GOD’S WILL to be done
Song: Our Father by Bethel (YouTube)
Daniel 6:10-11
2 Kings 19:14-19
Matthew 6:5-14
You can utilize the Daniel Fast Journey book (available on Amazon) for more information about the Daniel Fast along with a 21-day meal plan and recipes.