January 18th, 2023
Day 17 – January 18, 2023
“Great Advice”
Acts 27:9 - Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them….
Roman soldiers and prisoners were sailing on a boat to Italy. After they had finished their fast, Paul offered some very compelling guidance to the entire crew. (He had no doubt spent his fasting time listening to the Lord!) “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster” if we put out to sea now. But instead of taking his advice, the centurion in charge ignored Paul’s warning. The result was two weeks of suspense during a violent storm, ending in a shipwreck.
Paul’s fasting had prompted some GREAT ADVICE; unfortunately, it was ignored. Many write off fasting and praying. I don’t because of great advice!
My father and I owned an electrical business together for ten years. He gave me so much excellent advice while he was alive. I particularly remember when work was very scarce. It seemed like for every project that we would bid, we would come up short. I can still hear my dad on the other end of the phone saying, “Son, we need to fast and pray. God will supply.” And he was right! As I’ve said many times, my father was the greatest preacher in my life even though I never heard him preach behind a pulpit. He taught me that fasting and praying are integral parts of our faith in Jesus Christ.
When we fast, we open ourselves up to God’s work in our lives. As a result, we become more sensitive to His voice and expect Him to do amazing things in and through us. Fasting is a way for us to consecrate ourselves to the Lord, prepare for ministry, and hear His voice for clarity and direction. God actually gives the best advice!
Since our journey began two weeks ago, we’ve learned that fasting is not for show, and it’s not about perfect performance. His Word has advised us that when we fast, we humble ourselves before God, open our hearts to Him, and receive His grace and mercy.
So, as you have probably figured out by now, fasting is much more than just denying ourselves food. If that’s the goal, you have just been on a good diet. 😊 Rather, it’s about giving ourselves entirely to our great and awesome God and serving Him with our whole heart. Fasting is a powerful way to connect with God.
Hopefully in these last five days, we all can come to understand this powerful truth even better. Yes, Fasting and Praying is great advice!
Love,
Pastor Brian Rabon
“Great Advice”
Acts 27:9 - Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them….
Roman soldiers and prisoners were sailing on a boat to Italy. After they had finished their fast, Paul offered some very compelling guidance to the entire crew. (He had no doubt spent his fasting time listening to the Lord!) “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster” if we put out to sea now. But instead of taking his advice, the centurion in charge ignored Paul’s warning. The result was two weeks of suspense during a violent storm, ending in a shipwreck.
Paul’s fasting had prompted some GREAT ADVICE; unfortunately, it was ignored. Many write off fasting and praying. I don’t because of great advice!
My father and I owned an electrical business together for ten years. He gave me so much excellent advice while he was alive. I particularly remember when work was very scarce. It seemed like for every project that we would bid, we would come up short. I can still hear my dad on the other end of the phone saying, “Son, we need to fast and pray. God will supply.” And he was right! As I’ve said many times, my father was the greatest preacher in my life even though I never heard him preach behind a pulpit. He taught me that fasting and praying are integral parts of our faith in Jesus Christ.
When we fast, we open ourselves up to God’s work in our lives. As a result, we become more sensitive to His voice and expect Him to do amazing things in and through us. Fasting is a way for us to consecrate ourselves to the Lord, prepare for ministry, and hear His voice for clarity and direction. God actually gives the best advice!
Since our journey began two weeks ago, we’ve learned that fasting is not for show, and it’s not about perfect performance. His Word has advised us that when we fast, we humble ourselves before God, open our hearts to Him, and receive His grace and mercy.
So, as you have probably figured out by now, fasting is much more than just denying ourselves food. If that’s the goal, you have just been on a good diet. 😊 Rather, it’s about giving ourselves entirely to our great and awesome God and serving Him with our whole heart. Fasting is a powerful way to connect with God.
Hopefully in these last five days, we all can come to understand this powerful truth even better. Yes, Fasting and Praying is great advice!
Love,
Pastor Brian Rabon
No Comments