Fasting and Prayer

“Then I proclaimed a fast … to humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him a safe journey for us, our little ones, and all our possessions.” – Ezra 8:21 NASB

Ezra was called to travel to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. The journey was long and dangerous. Ezra knew that, if necessary, he could request armed protection. But he was determined to demonstrate that God would protect and provide for them. He didn’t want to take God’s blessings for granted. Ezra committed their journey to Him.

So Ezra gathered his traveling companions and proclaimed a fast. His first goal was to humble himself before God. He knew from Israel’s history how often pride and a haughty spirit had led to ruin. They needed to demonstrate that they were depending on God. They also fasted to seek “a safe journey.” God listened and answered. And they arrived safely in Jerusalem.

Jesus taught a similar lesson when the disciples could not drive out a demon. He told them, “this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting” (Matthew 17:21 NKJV). They needed the spiritual power and sensitivity that comes from prayer and fasting.

When you face serious problems, remember the benefits of prayer and fasting. Pray and fast when you don’t know what to do, when you face challenges and opposition, and when you want to be sure you know God’s will and have His blessing, anointing, and favor.

The Bible provides assurance that God is by your side, ready to hear you, bless and protect you, guide and provide for you. Call on His name. Pray and fast.