Fasting Is a Necessity for the Child of God

[15] And Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast.” — Matthew 9:15 NKJV

One thing that gave some Israelites room to criticise Jesus’ ministry was how He ate with people, including those regarded as ‘sinners,’ frequently. Many people compared His ministerial lifestyle to that of John the Baptist, thinking He would be fasting like him. Meanwhile, Jesus’ calling was different. And today, I’m happy to inform you that each believer’s calling in Christ is also unique.

Because Jesus knew that He was the bridegroom of the Church, He didn’t expect people around Him to fast. Think about it this way. Have you attended a wedding ceremony without being refreshed before the event is over? Of course not. So when Jesus came, the Church wasn’t born. And that means, as long as He was physically with them, He wanted them to enjoy His company with lots of food, miracles and other good works. But He said that after He was gone, we would fast. Therefore, fasting is a necessity for the child of God.

Here’s the primary goal for fasting (and prayer) – to commune with Jesus. Every wife (or even godly girlfriend) wants to hear from her husband (or godly man) frequently. Once the communication becomes inconsistent, the woman or wife will desire the man/husband passionately.

In the same way, when you deny yourself of consistent prayer and fasting as a believer, you’ll suffocate your heart from fellowshipping with Jesus. It’ll become so strong over time that you will feel it in your heart that God is drawing you near to Him.

Prayer and fasting is not mainly to ask God for things. I tell you that, as you desire Jesus, He’ll supply many more things you may not even pray for. He’s a God of abundance. He will give you everything you need. But before that, He wants you to fellowship with Him. Enough of the everyday toils of life. Commune with Jesus, and He will provide His empowerment to live like Him.

You’re a blessing.

Prayer:

Father, help me to develop a deeper communion with You as I fast and pray persistently. Assist me to desire you by filling my thoughts with kingdom things. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

Devotional Code: KGD – 2024 – 046