#First21/Day 1

Let me begin by saying “thank you” for participating in 21 day prayer/fast we are going on over the next several weeks. Everything we will be doing is designed to focus our sights on God, His Word, and His desire for us both individually and as the body of Christ. I encourage you to read the book of Daniel this week. It contains 12 powerful chapters in which you will quickly notice God’s followers lived differently from the world around them!

“In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were ful- filled.” Daniel 10:2, 3

Purpose of Fasting

Fasting is done for spiritual reasons. Fasting always has a purpose. Since that purpose is spiritual, it is crucial to keep your focus and activity centered on the Holy Spirit. That means setting aside time for regular worship, Bible study, and prayer—especially around meal times. Otherwise, fasting simply becomes an empty ritual or an ineffective diet plan.

Prayer and fasting are not just about connecting to God but also about disconnecting from the world. While fasting typically refers to refraining from specific food items, you may also find it extremely beneficial to fast from a regular activity or habit. This might include things such as television, social media, and the like. Try to tune out some of the regular distractions from your day as much as possible. Replace that time with things that will nourish you spiritually.

Often individuals fast with the intention of moving the hand of God. However, fasting does not move or change God, it is meant to change us. And it is for that change that we come before Him and choose to seek His face. That we may KNOW Him.

Bible Reading Day 1: Daniel Chapter 10 Daniel, a young Hebrew boy, under Babylonian captivity chose in his day to stay steadfast and focused. He chose to keep the law of the Word of Jehovah rather than succumb to the law of the land.

Does that mean that Daniel became a criminal? Not as we would think but what he did choose to do shows us what we must do in the face of lawlessness and ungodly laws and authorities in the land....Daniel prayed. Daniel fasted. Daniel chose to continue to walk in God's way. Although he did not hear from God immediately, scripture shows us that from THE FIRST DAY that Daniel purposed to seek the Lord and humble his heart, God HEARD and sent the response. As we set apart these three weeks to seek God, know that God has already heard your prayer. He is already at work on your behalf. Spend time praying for God to speak to you and give you strength to stand fast and persevere.

Prayer: Instead of coming with a list of requests, let us simply pursue His presence each day. Make it your main priority to become more aware of the voice of God. Hear Him speaking to you.

As you pray, ask God to reveal to you any area of your life that needs to be cleansed. Ask Him to show you any unconfessed sin. And be bold in asking Him to increase your influence with your friends, family and co-workers so that you can have a positive impact on them for Jesus Christ. Reflection/Journal: What specific clarity of vision are you seeking from God during this time? Write down your prayer so you can reflect on it at the end of the 21 days.