For those new to fasting
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Foregoing a meal on one of Wellspring’s corporate prayer days, and using that time to pray for our church in a season of transition, can be a useful starting point.
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Try a new habit of walking or exercising without taking your phone, to protect that time from distraction.
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Someone might choose to fast coffee for a month, and every time they feel that pang of need, it’s a reminder to pray.
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Social media may be something especially consuming for others, and to fast regularly from this allows space to pray.
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If you’d like to try a one-day fast, keep the following in mind:
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Fast for two meals.
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Continue drinking coffee and tea if that’s your habit.
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Keep a normal work and exercise schedule.
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Have a single long period of uninterrupted quiet. This can involve: prayer,
journalling, reading Scripture, etc.
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If you’d like to extend your fast beyond one day, keep the following in mind:
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Expect to feel hungry.
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Plan your schedule. If you have existing appointments, find natural ways
to communicate you’re fasting if needing to mention it.
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Have a specific purpose, problem, or necessary breakthrough in mind, to
focus attention and return to.
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Be mindful of where you plan to be in the final stages of the fast, since
you will be in need of sustenance and low on energy.
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For further reflection and study
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We recommend the “Practicing the Way” podcast by John Mark Comer. Click here for more details.
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A shorter explanation of the value of fasting can be found here.
For children and families
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You may discuss and choose something together to fast from on the days of fasting (Oct 31st, Nov 14th, Nov 28th). For example, a treat, technology, or activity, as a regular reminder to stop and pray.
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You may like to incorporate the prayers below during family meal or prayer times, prepared by Anna Davy and based on Psalm 28:7-9.
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You can use a simplified version of our PREPARE prayer (also below)
Lord, you are our strength and shield.
We trust you,
And you help us.
We give you thanks.
Lord, you are powerful.
You save and protect those who lead us.
Save your people,
Bless your people,
Shepherd us at Wellspring,
And carry us forever. Amen.
God of strength and wisdom,
you are worthy of all praise,
and we can trust you in change.
As Wellspring changes,
by your Holy Spirit make us more like Jesus;
provide us godly leaders;
and grow our life with Jesus,
in whose name we pray. Amen.
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