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"When the days come that the Groom is removed from their midst, they will surely fast in those days." —Luke 5:35
The word "fast" has two meanings. One refers to limiting our eating and the other indicates speed. Possibly God intends these two meanings to come together. Biblically, when God calls His people to fast, He is fast bringing His work to fulfillment in a certain area.
When Jesus fasted for forty days and nights, His public ministry and our salvation were fast approaching (Mt 4:2). When the early Church needed to raise up leaders fast, they fasted (Acts 13:3). When the Ninevites had only forty days to prevent their destruction, they had to do something fast, so they fasted (Jon 3:5). When Ahab was doomed to destruction and he needed a way out fast, he fasted (1 Kgs 21:27). When the enemy was about to overrun Jehoshaphat's army, God called for a fast (2 Chr 20:3). When the Jews were on the verge of genocide, Esther fasted (Est 4:16). When something is yet to be done to deliver a person from certain demons, Jesus calls us to fast (Mt 17:21, NAB). When we must be freed fast, fast (Is 58:6).
Is there anything in your life going slowly that needs to go fast? Seek God's will. He may be calling you to go faster by fasting.
Prayer: Jesus, from this day forward give me Your mind and heart for fasting.
Promise: "It pleased God to make absolute fullness reside in Him and, by means of Him, to reconcile everything in His person, both on earth and in the heavens, making peace through the blood of His cross." —Col 1:19-20
Praise: Louise found more time to pray and hear God when she began fasting.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our leaflet The Secret of Fasting or on audio AV 46-1 or video V-46.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 8, 2005
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