Description

In this timely message, Pastor Zach Maddox talks about what fasting is and why we should fast as followers of Jesus. Our prayer is that this message encourages you to pray and fast as we head into the new year.

Notes:

Theme: What is fasting and why is it important we fast as followers of Jesus?

Life Change Goal: Our prayer is that this message encourages you to pray and fast as we head into the new year.

Text: Matthew 6:16-18 (ESV); Luke 4:1-2 (ESV)

1. Why should we fast?
   1. Isaiah 58:6 (ESV)
   2. Mark 9:29 (ESV)
   3. Daniel 9:2-3, 21-22 (ESV)
   4. 2 Corinthians 10:4 (ESV)
2. What is fasting?
   1. Matthew 4:4 (ESV)
   2. Acts 14:23 (ESV)
3. How do we fast?
   1. When we fast, we feast on God through scripture, prayer, and songs.
   2. Psalm 63:5 (NLT)
   3. Matthew 9:14-15 (ESV)
   4. Matthew 24:14 (ESV)

Conclusion: Let’s fast from food and feast on God for the next 21 days to know His love, to hear His voice, and to walk in obedience to His will.

In response to this message I will…

I will share part of this message with...

Discussion Questions:

Start Talking. Find a conversation starter for your group.

• What is something you are looking forward to this year?

Start Thinking. Ask a question to get your group thinking.

• What is something you are asking God for right now?

Start Sharing. Choose a couple of questions to create openness.

• Why is fasting a difficult spiritual discipline to keep?
• If you have fasted in the past, what kind of results have you experienced from fasting?
• How has God asked you to participate in a church-wide time of prayer and fasting for 2021?