Joshua Boyd
In the Old Testament, fasting was done often in time of desperation. Think about Esther before she went before the King. When they were rebuilding Jerusalem after the time of Babylonian captivity, Ezra and Nehemiah both used the fast to get the people focusing on God.
Ezra, the high priest, and the people of Israel, needed protection for a challenging journey. They escalated the emphasis by praying AND fasting.
The church, including our church, puts much emphasis on prayer. Prayer is important. Too many though think of prayer as leaving a voicemail. "I’ve done my part, now it is up to God to respond." Prayer isn’t voicemail. Prayer is a two-way communication and fasting opens up the return line. It enhances our ability to hear from the Father.
