Spirit & Life Devotional
Thursday, July 3
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim
Luke 2:36-37 NLT "Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer."
WORSHIPPING GOD WITH FASTING AND PRAYER
Some of us find it difficult to fast. That's a serious problem, even though we haven't realized it. No wonder we are weak spiritually. One thing that is common to men and women who did exploits for God in the Bible is their habit of fasting and praying. Their willingness to deny themselves of certain earthly pleasures to concentrate on God. Paul said he fasted often (2 Corinthians 11:27).
Fasting is a service or an act of worship to God. "In both Hebrew and Greek, there are two categories of words for worship. The first is about body language that demonstrates respect and submission; to bow down, to kneel, to prostrate oneself. The second is about doing something for God that demonstrates sacrifice and obedience; to offer, to serve." Fasting, whether it's abstinence from food, drink, sex (for the married) or sleep, demonstrates sacrifice and reverence for God.
For Anna, fasting and prayer wasn't something she did occasionally, it was a lifestyle. She even dwelt in the Temple, fasting and praying day and night! No wonder she recognised Jesus when He was being dedicated to God as a baby; she had become so intimate with God, and she could see things others couldn't see or perceive.
Today is the last day of our three days fasting and prayer. You are encouraged to participate. Pray concerning your calling, your dreams and visions, for your family, your business or job, etc. Pray for your leaders and for country. And intercede for the sick and the needy. Pray for me too!
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