Here is a link to Sunday Morning’s message, “Push for Your Promise!” We hope that this week, you begin to “push” harder for everything God has in store for you. crosschurchhouma/content.cfm?id=213&content_id=38 In this message, Pastor Brandon issued a challenge to fast for one week as you “push.” At Cross Church, we believe fasting is SO important. At the beginning of the year and mid-year, we will challenge members to fast for 21 days. Before launching Cross Church, the launch team fasted for you for 40 days. Throughout scripture, the importance of fasting is revealed. PURPOSE OF FASTING: The purpose of a fast is to get closer to God, to spend time in prayer and to seek Him for breakthrough in a particular area of your life. In the New Testament, Jesus makes it clear in scripture that fasting, prayer, and giving should be standard in our Christian walk. WHAT SHOULD I FAST? There are many different types of fasts. Some people fast all food and only consume water (This is definitely something you should consult your physician about.) Some fast by drinking only liquids and may incorporate smoothies and broth. Some eat just one meal a day or decide to give up something that they enjoy daily like coffee, caffeine, soft drinks, dessert, etc. Sometimes a fast of something like TV may be very effective for some folks because it frees up there time to pray. In Psalms 35:13 and in Psalms 69:10, we find that fasting denies our body and humbles our souls. This allows our spirit to hear God more clearly. Consequently, when you go for that food item or activity that you typically participate in, you are now reminded to pray and seek God. The bottom line is that God looks at the heart. So, if you choose to fast with the church, fast responsibly and sincerely. For some of us, this may be our first fast…and that is awesome!!! If you have any questions, PLEASE ask. We have reading materials as well that may help explain the purpose and benefits of fasting. Whatever you can fast, let’s go for it and get more of God in our lives! FAST WITH A PURPOSE: We often say that fasting without prayer is just a diet lol. This week’s message was about pushing for your promise. Identify that area in your life that you need breatkthrough and pray throughout the day and week that God would move mightily in that area! Also, join us in praying for Cross Church that God would continue to pour out His Spirit in a supernatural way! Here’s a great link by Dr. Bill Bright with more information on fasting: cru.org/training-and-growth/devotional-life/7-steps-to-fasting/01-personal-guide.htm
Posted on: Mon, 03 Feb 2014 18:00:00 +0000