Whether you are a beginner, or have been fasting for many years, I believe you will find these tips helpful.
BEFORE YOU FAST
• If you have any type of medical condition and/or taking any type of medication, consult your physician before fasting
• Decide the purpose of the Fast
• Start with a specific goal
• Prepare Spiritually and proclaim the fast before the Lord
• Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness
• Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4)
• Reduce food intake gradually as preparation for the Fast
• Believe that you will receive the reward for fasting (Matthew 6:18)
• Evaluate your motives. Do not fast for outward appearances, fast unto God, not man (Matthew 6:16-18)
MTCM ANNUAL CORPORATE FAST
• Sunday, January 2 through Thursday, January 13
• Our corporate fast consist of one meal a day with no meals consumed between 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
DURING THE FAST
• Drink water and refrain from excessive work or exercise
• Resist temptation to be boastful or proud and walk-in true humility. Fasting in itself is not an act of righteousness that makes one more pious or holy.
• Plan your time wisely
• Minister to the Lord (Colossians 3:16)
• Pray, read the Word of God, confess the Word of God, meditate
• Repent, ask God to test your heart
WHAT TO EXPECT
When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s face.
The main reason a Proclaimed Fast brings results is that it encourages the people’s hearts and minds to agree toward God! (2 Chronicles 20:1-5).
The Scriptures indicates that the Holy Spirit speaks in an atmosphere where there is fasting, prayer and ministering to the Lord (Acts 13:1-2).
AFTER THE FAST
Restrain yourself from overeating and gradually increase your food intake. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.
Scripture References for Fasting:
Matthew 6:16-18
Matthew 9:14-15
Luke 18:9-14
Relation to Prayer and Reading of the Word:
1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18
Nehemiah 1:4
Daniel 9:3, 20
Joel 2:12
Luke 2:37
Acts 10:30
Acts 13:2
Corporate Fasting:
1 Samuel 7:5-6
Ezra 8:21-23
Nehemiah 9:1-3
Joel 2:15-16
Jonah 3:5-10
Acts 27:33-37
A daily reminder that it is the attitude of a heart seeking Him to which God responds with blessings (Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 14:12, 1 Corinthians 8:8).
May the Lord richly bless you and keep you as you fast!
Bishop-elect Joshua Goodrum and Miracle Temple Christian Ministries Inc advise all members and participants of this consecration to consider their personal health needs and to consult with their personal physician prior to beginning any fast. Therefore, we specifically disclaim any responsibility from any physical reaction from any fast.