PASTOR’S NOTE: Here is an opportunity to do a little research on your own concerning fasting. Spend some quality time with the Lord as you investigate the scriptures that are given. Go ahead, be like the Bereans and search the scriptures for yourself.

Matthew 6:16-18

September 19, 1999 pm

When you fast do not look somber as the hyppocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting, I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that you will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your father who is unseen; and your father who sees what is done in secret, will reward.

Fasting is a celebration- Recognizing God’s Person

Fasting is an acknowledgement- Realizing God’s Purpose

Fasting is a prescription- Receiving God’s Power

1. Fasting a celebration- Recognizing God’s Personhood

A. When we fast we are brought into touch with our hevenly Father.

B. When we fast we are putting our hand into His hand

C. When we fast we are celebrating who God is

-His magnificent strength for our needs

-His uniqueness in times of need

-His willingness to meet our needs

2. Fasting is an acknowledgement- Realizing God’s Purpose

A. Fasting adds strength to our prayers

B. Fasting builds faith in God

C. Fasting acknowledges God’s will:

-Thy will be done on earth as in heaven

-Not my will but thine

3. Fasting is a prescription- Receiving God’s Power

A. Power over unbelief (Matt. 17:14)

B. Power to change the world (Isaiah 58)

C. Power for protection (Ezra 8)