SEEKING GOD'S FACE THROUGH FASTING

Title: SEEKING GOD'S FACE THROUGH FASTING

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 6:16-18
Supporting Texts: Joel 2:12-13, Ezra 8:21-23, Isaiah 58:6-9, Acts 13:2-3

INTRODUCTION:
Fasting is a spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God. It involves abstaining from food or other pleasures to focus on seeking God's face through prayer, repentance, and worship. Throughout the Bible, fasting has been a means of experiencing breakthroughs, receiving divine direction, and growing in spiritual strength. In this sermon, we will explore the significance of fasting, how to fast effectively, and the blessings it brings when combined with sincere devotion to God.

1. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO SEEK GOD'S FACE THROUGH FASTING?

a) Prioritising Intimacy with God
Fasting redirects our focus from earthly distractions to God's presence (Psalm 27:8).

b) Demonstrating Total Dependence on God
It is an act of surrender, acknowledging God as our ultimate source (Ezra 8:21).

c) Pursuing Spiritual Renewal
Fasting fosters repentance, cleansing, and a fresh start in our relationship with God (Joel 2:12).

d) Listening for God’s Voice
During fasting, we quiet the noise of the world to hear divine instructions (Habakkuk 2:1).

e) Biblical Example: Daniel (Daniel 9:3). Daniel sought God’s face through fasting and prayer, receiving profound revelations.

2. WHY IS FASTING IMPORTANT IN SEEKING GOD'S FACE?

a) It Strengthens Our Spirit
Fasting builds spiritual resilience, enabling us to overcome fleshly weaknesses (Galatians 5:16).

b) It Facilitates Breakthroughs
Some spiritual battles require fasting for victory (Matthew 17:21).

c) It Opens Doors for Divine Guidance
Fasting helps us discern God’s will in critical decisions (Acts 13:2-3).

d) It Aligns Us with God’s Purpose
Fasting brings our desires in line with God’s plans (Isaiah 58:6-7).

e) Biblical Example: Esther (Esther 4:16). Esther's fast led to deliverance for her people.

3. HOW TO FAST EFFECTIVELY

a) Begin with Prayer
Commit your fast to God, asking for His guidance and strength (Proverbs 16:3).

b) Stay Focused on God's Word
Meditate on Scripture to keep your mind aligned with God’s promises (Joshua 1:8).

c) Be Specific with Your Intentions
Define your purpose for fasting, whether it’s for repentance, guidance, or intercession (Ezra 8:21).

d) Avoid Hypocrisy
Fasting should be a private act of devotion, not for public display (Matthew 6:16-18).

e) Biblical Example: Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11). Jesus fasted in the wilderness, demonstrating focus and reliance on God’s Word.

4. THE BLESSINGS OF SEEKING GOD'S FACE THROUGH FASTING

a) Renewed Spiritual Strength
Fasting revitalises our faith and deepens our relationship with God (Isaiah 40:31).

b) Greater Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit
It heightens our spiritual awareness and discernment (John 16:13).

c) Divine Intervention and Deliverance
Fasting invites God's miraculous power into impossible situations (Isaiah 58:8-9).

d) Healing and Restoration
Fasting brings emotional, physical, and spiritual healing (Isaiah 58:6-8).

e) Biblical Example: Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:3-22). His fast led to victory over his enemies.

5. CHALLENGES DURING FASTING AND HOW TO OVERCOME THEM

a) Physical Weakness
Trust God for strength and manage your fast wisely (2 Corinthians 12:9).

b) Distractions and Temptations
Stay focused by immersing yourself in prayer and Scripture (Colossians 3:2).

c) Lack of Clarity or Immediate Results
Be patient and trust in God's timing (Habakkuk 2:3).

d) Spiritual Opposition
Persevere through prayer, knowing that God fights for you (Ephesians 6:12).

e) Biblical Example: Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1:4-11). Nehemiah persisted in prayer and fasting despite challenges.

CONCLUSION:
Fasting is a powerful tool for seeking God’s face and experiencing His transformative power in our lives. It deepens our intimacy with God, aligns us with His will, and unlocks His blessings. As we humble ourselves through fasting, let us approach it with sincerity, faith, and a heart fully devoted to God.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, teach me to seek Your face through fasting and prayer.

2. Father, give me the grace to fast effectively and faithfully.

3. Lord, reveal Your will to me as I fast and pray.

4. Father, let my fasting break every chain in my life.

5. Lord, draw me closer to You through this season of fasting.

6. Father, let my fasting bring healing and restoration.

7. Lord, give me victory over every spiritual battle.

8. Father, strengthen my spirit to overcome temptations during fasting.

9. Lord, let my fasting bring transformation in my family and community.

10. Father, let Your glory be revealed as I seek Your face.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. As you seek God’s face through fasting, He will reveal Himself to you.

2. Every chain holding you back will break during this season of fasting.

3. Divine guidance and clarity are coming your way as you fast and pray.

4. Your fasting will attract supernatural breakthroughs.

5. Healing and restoration are yours in this season of consecration.

6. The Lord will strengthen you to overcome every temptation.

7. Your prayers will bring divine intervention in impossible situations.

8. God will release new levels of grace and favour upon you.

9. Every spiritual battle in your life will turn into a testimony.

10. You will experience a deeper relationship with God as you fast and pray.