Galatians 6:2 (NKJV)“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
Devotion
Fasting is a well established precedent set by the Prophets, the Apostles, the history of the church, and even Jesus himself. The spiritual benefits of fasting are well established. As an example, we know from Scripture that fasting is a weapon useful in spiritual warfare. When the Apostles were unable to cast out a demon from a boy, Jesus told them its kind “does not go out except by fasting and prayer” (Matthew 17:21).
Fasting is an act of desperation towards God. It is a powerful way to cleanse and unburden the soul. It helps God’s beloved get their eyes off the distractions of the world and back on the Cross. Fasting can help drifting minds refocus on truth - pulling them back like a strong magnet - when the hunger for God replaces the hunger for food.
But, fasting is not about receiving worldly benefits. While worldly benefits may result, fasting is a personal act of sacrifice that calls out to God, seeking to get closer to His truth and purity. The truth is, as fasting brings you closer to God it should ultimately produce brotherly love and a burden for others. The Prophet Isaiah warned that God is not pleased by a fast when it is not heartfelt or when sin or the needs of others are overlooked. A fast becomes pleasing to God “If you take away the yoke… the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, if you extend your soul to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul…”(Isaiah 58:9-10). Remember, when asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus said: “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind’. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’” (Matthew 22:37-39). So in this way, fasting should drive God’s beloved to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2).
Today’s Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
As we seek You through fasting and prayer, help us to love others as You have loved us. Open our eyes to the burdens of those around us and give us the strength to carry them with compassion and grace. Let our fasting not only bring us closer to You but also inspire us to extend Your love and kindness to those in need. May we fulfill the law of Christ by walking in unity, humility, and selflessness. In the Name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
During this fast, ask God to reveal someone in your life who is carrying a heavy burden. Take a tangible step to help them: it could be through prayer, offering encouragement, or meeting a practical need. Remember, fasting is not only about drawing closer to God but also about expressing His love to others in action.
Resources:
Reading through the New Testament: Today’s reading - Mark 9-16
21-Day Fasting Journey with Jentezen Franklin
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