Committing to a Fast
Beginning a Fast
There are different kinds of fasts: a total fast from foods and liquids for a short interval of time; a liquid fast, in which only water may be drunk; a juice fast, which involves drinking water and a given amount of juices at normal mealtimes; a fast from meats, in which only fruits and vegetables may be eaten.
It is important to understand the effects of fasting on the spirit, soul, and body. Before committing to a fast, I encourage you to study the Word of God and to read books that provide important nutritional and other health information. Understanding will help to avoid harm and injury—both physically and spiritually.
Do not flaunt your fast, but do talk with your family and close associates if necessary to let them know what you are doing.
(Personal note: During times of fasting I continue to prepare meals at home for my family.)
Prayer
Father, I consecrate this fast to You and set my mind to gain understanding in these matters for which I am concerned. (Write your concerns out and keep them before your eyes. Do not lose sight of the reason for your fast.)
I humble myself before You, Most High God. In accordance with Daniel 10:1-3, I will eat no __________ for the period of ________.
I obey the words of Jesus by putting on festive clothing, so that no one will suspect that I am fasting.
Father, You know every secret, and I look to You for my reward. I am assured that You hear me when I pray according to Your will, and I know that I shall have the petitions that I desire of You.
Father, I delight myself in You, and You cause my desires to be agreeable with Your will.
I choose the fast You have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke. I share my food with the hungry and provide the poor wanderer with shelter. When I see the naked, I will clothe him, and I will not turn away from my own flesh and blood. Then my light will break forth like the dawn, and my healing will quickly appear; then my righteousness will go before me, and Your glory, Lord, will be my rear guard.
Father, thank You for cleansing me—spirit, soul, and body. All my ways seem innocent to me, but my motives are weighed by You, my Lord and my Master. I commit this fast to You, and my plans will succeed. I thank You that it is You Who give the wise answer of the tongue.
Forever, O Lord, Your Word stands firm in heaven. Your faithfulness extends to every generation, like the earth You created; it endures by Your decree, for everything serves Your plans.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Ending a Fast
It is best to break a fast by eating fruit, broth, or a light salad, gradually adding other foods day by day depending upon the length of the fast.
Prayer
Father, in the name of Jesus, You are my Light and my Salvation; whom shall I fear? You are the Strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Father, You have given me the desires of my heart. You have heard and answered my prayers. To You be the glory! Great things You have done!
I rest in You, awaiting the manifestation of all that I required and inquired of You.
I thank You for giving me Your strength to face each day full of sap [of spiritual vitality]. Today I break this fast as You have directed. I thank You for this food because it is consecrated by Your Word and prayer.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
