Daily Devotionals

Devotional: July 5th

For Reading and Meditation:
     Esther 4:15-17

Mordecai';s appeal to Esther that she should look at the situation in the light of God's sovereignty convinces her that she should get to see the king as quickly as possible. As so much is at stake, she wisely decides to enter into a three-day fast and, informing Mordecai of her decision, requests him to join her in this spiritual discipline. She suggests, also, that he urge the Jews in their city to join with them in refraining from food as part of their direct appeal to God. One way of increasing spiritual power in our lives, especially during a time of crisis, is to pray and fast. Sadly, although the Bible has so much to say about fasting, it is a subject that is rarely mentioned from modern-day pulpits. Why is fasting so important? One reason among many is that when we eat, an increased amount of blood is needed to aid the digestive processes, but when we abstain from eating, a greater amount of blood is available to flow to our brains and aid our concentration. If you want to study the subject, then I suggest you read a good book on it, such as Arthur Wallis's God's Chosen Fast. I know of no better way when facing a crisis, or when about to make a major life decision, than to refrain from making any decisions until you have entered into a time of prayer and fasting. Even a twenty-four-hour period of fasting can bring tremendous spiritual results. But one word of caution: no fasting should be done without medical counsel if there are any physical ailments.

Father, are You trying to get my attention over this matter of fasting? Is this the voice of the Holy Spirit I hear? If so, help me be clear about the matter. Make me both willing and obedient. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.

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