Sermon - Introduction to the Kingdom Practice of Fasting Matthew 9:14-17 Big Idea: Jesus assumes that His apprentices will use fasting as a means to amplify our prayers in order that we might experience His kingdom in our lives with more fullness. “But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:17-18 Some practical advice: Work your way into it. If you’re new to running for exercise, it’s unwise to start with 5 miles on your first run. The same goes for fasting. Perhaps start with one meal the first week and then two meals the second week. You can slowly extend it from there, but also know that even just one or two meals weekly, or monthly, is a meaningful participation in this discipline. Replace your normal meal time with time in prayer. The physical hunger pains remind you of the purpose of your fast. They can serve as alarm clocks for prayer. Drink water. There’s nothing spiritual about dehydration. Modify if necessary. Some people need to drink juice while they fast. They get too weak and don’t function well. Don’t be mechanical. Be sure not to think about fasting in mechanical or formulaic terms (E.g. – “If I drink a little juice in the morning, does it still count?”). This is a relational process with your Heavenly Father. Talk to him about it and let him teach and lead you through the process. Expect it to be a struggle. Don’t be too quick to give in or depend on something other than God. Remember: the irritability, impatience, etc. that rise up are not reasons to quit. Fasting often functions like a spiritual detox, exposing some of the sludge in our souls. Get some extra sleep the night before your fast. Without the energy you gain from food, you will likely experience some sluggishness during your fast. If you don’t get good sleep the night before, your fast will be much harder. Feed your faith with the promise of Matt 6:18. It helps to remind yourself regularly why you’re doing this fast, and what you’re after. If you can’t fast for health reasons (e.g. pregnancy, diabetes, etc.), don’t feel guilty. The Lord knows your physical limitations. You can always fast from something else (e.g. social media, TV, movies, your hobby, etc.) and devote that time to prayer, seeking the Lord with special intensity. Make a list of prayer requests on a “What I’m hungry for today” sticky note to guide your prayers on the day of your fast.