Today my husband and I had the most precious time of fellowship with a dear friend and pastor.  He invited us for lunch at a great little spot in Manhattan called Cafe Lalo.  If you haven’t been there you need to check it out.  The place is quaint and small and they have fabulous coffees, desserts, sandwiches, and much more than I could possibly list.

Well, after the typical small talk and glancing at the menu, we ordered.  There was something so loving and caring about his demeanor that we found ourselves pouring out to him some things that were heavy on our heart.  He then asked, “Are you fasting?” After telling him that it had been a while, he encouraged me to do it again.  He then shared with us how fasting got him through a very difficult time.

I started thinking about what Jesus said.

“Then John’s disciples came and asked him, “How is it that we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?”  Jesus answered, “How can the guests of the bridegroom mourn while he is with them? The time will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.”  Matthew 9: 14-15.

Jesus did not say they might fast… He said they will fast.  At another time Jesus also told his disciples, after their failed attempt to cast out a demon from a young boy, that this case was one that required more than just prayer.  This kind comes out only by prayer and fasting.

As Daniel the prophet prayed and fasted, the angel Gabriel told him that he had been fighting with the prince of Persia, meaning a demonic power, for 21 days.  After getting help from the angel Michael he was then able to answer Daniel.  If you read it carefully you will understand that Daniel was praying and fasting throughout that time.  And the Lord gave Daniel an answer.

Do I fully understand what is going on in the heavens when we pray and fast?  No, but I do know that our Captain moves and does battle for us.

What is it that you have been struggling with that just doesn’t seem to end?  Then, just when you think you have the victory, it comes right back to hit you in the face.  I know my struggle.  Our sweet visit with this pastor today reminded me that there is something I can do.  Pray and fast.  God, in His time, will answer.

6 Comments

1. 

   For years I have been praying for my mother to accept Christ as her Savior, and this year at my church’s annual Ladies’ tea she finally accepted. I have many struggles, and have not fasted, but have prayed daily for victory and one by one, Jesus answers me, and I see His work in my life continuously. This July 4th, there is a “Call2Fall” happening. The Family Research Counsel (a Christian organization) is encouraging all Americans to join in this prayer outreach for our loved ones, and for our nation, because we truly need to. Too many people still don’t know Christ as their Savior, and whether or not they admit it, they need Him. Perhaps we can all fast and pray as part of this endeavor. I am going to do this. Thank you Damaris for sharing, and encouraging us, Damaris. I’m praying for you and your family, also. Take care.

   Comment by Regina — June 9, 2010 @ 4:54 pm

2. 

   I’ve added these Berry’s to my dailies. VICTORY IN JESUS!!!

   Comment by Carol S. — June 8, 2010 @ 9:21 am

3. 

   http://joanieberry.blogspot.com/

   Comment by Joanie Berry — June 8, 2010 @ 1:23 am

4. 

   I entered my website incorrectly. It is http://www.joanieberry.blogspot.com

   Comment by Joanie Berry — June 8, 2010 @ 1:20 am

5. 

   Please pray for my son Matt who is addicted to IV drugs and will be dead soon.

   Comment by Joanie Berry — June 8, 2010 @ 1:17 am

6. 

   Please pray for my drug addicted son, Matthew. He is 25 years old and he was born in my arms and I think he will die in my arms if God does not save him. I want him to surrender his life to the Lord before he dies. Please pray with me.

   God bless
   joanie berry
   knoxville, tennessee

   Comment by Joanie Berry — June 8, 2010 @ 1:14 am

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