Day 16: Finishing Strong

We are in the final stretch of our 21 Days of Fasting & Prayer.  That news is greeted by many with great sighs of relief.  But I’ve been blessed by the many comments about how much this fast has meant.  Several have told me that this if the first time they’ve fasted.  Remember, sometimes fasting is wonderful while you’re doing it, and other times the fast itself is a prayer with the answer yet to come.  Don’t lose heart if you haven’t “felt something” or “heard a great word from the Lord.”  He’s heard you and sees you.  He’s preparing your answer right now!

My prayer is that the results of the fast would endure and not cease with our official conclusion this Sunday.  I’ve been examining my life, my priorities, how I spend my time and I’m trusting God to help me continue beyond the fast with life long improvements in my spiritual and natural habits.

How about you?  Did you discover any unnecessary distractions that you intend to manage better?  Are there any new spiritual disciplines that you can apply to your daily routine even beyond the fast?  Can you see yourself continuing to devote more time to pray and scripture throughout the year?  A.W. Tozer writes:  “Eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak.”  Your time fasting probably did just that…but will you continue in it?  I hope so.  You’ll be a more intimate worshipper and more powerful disciple of Christ…and our church will be stronger for it as well.

Another important thing to consider:  Has the Lord given you a specific direction or instruction for your life, your ministry, your church, your family or business?  Did He speak something to you that you know you must obey?  I’ve actually prayed for many of you who have gifts to teach, to love people, to possibly lead a Life Group or a Bible Study.  I’ve prayed for some of you that would be great at working in Children’s Ministry or helping with Work Release.  However, I also know that I never want anyone serving only because the Pastor asked.  I’m relying on God to speak to your hearts.  Is it you I’ve prayed for?  Will you answer the call?

I challenge you to take the next couple of days and ask the Holy Spirit to clarify some of these questions.  Ask Him to give you the strength to endure into a “fasted lifestyle.”  Ask Him to make some of these disciplines permanent.

Have I told you lately that I love being your Pastor?!