One Desire Fast is HMCC’s annual fast so we can start off the year hearing from God, both individually and as a church. This year’s theme is Locked In.
Aside from growing in the Word, it’s important to grow in prayer. Prayer fosters direct communication with God, aligning our hearts with His. In the context of fasting, prayer becomes not only a response to our struggles but also the primary reason for our fast: to discern God’s will and seek deeper intimacy with Him.
Fasting quiets the noise of our desires and the world’s demands, sharpening our spiritual senses to discern God’s will. The church in Antioch modeled this in Acts 13:2-3, fasting and praying to clearly receive and confirm God’s mission for Paul and Barnabas. It’s a dedicated time to ask, “God, what is Your heart in this matter?” Fasting also amplifies our prayers, adding weight and urgency to our intercession. It is standing in the gap for others, as Daniel did for his people (Daniel 9:3) and Esther did to save her nation (Esther 4:16). It is a focused plea for God to move powerfully where we see a need for change.
It’s often easy to pray during fasting with the expectation of receiving all the answers. We may feel disappointed if we don’t gain clarity, especially when we carry burdens on our hearts or seek direction. God has only three answers to our prayers: ‘Yes,’ ‘Not Yet,’ and ‘I have something better for you.’ Our true faith is revealed when the answer is either ‘Not Yet’ or ‘I have something better for you.’ God understands the timing and knows what we can handle. He sees what we need to let go of and what we may not yet comprehend. Recognizing the truth about God, that He knows our needs and is in control of all things, means we have nothing to lose by praying. So, why don’t we pray?
To deepen our understanding of prayer, we would like to recommend reading the article, “Tim Keller on the Struggle with Prayer and the Pathway to Enjoying God.” Timothy Keller, widely respected for his insightful book Prayer, explores this vital topic in depth. In this article, the author draws from Keller’s reflections on his own challenges with prayer and shares insights that can enhance our prayer life, grounding it in Scripture and fostering a deeper relationship with God. Through practical steps and theological reflections, let’s discover how prayer can transform our spiritual journey. Take the next step by implementing what you learn into your daily prayer practice. Support one another in your LIFE Group to foster a continually growing and prayerful community!
Reflection and Application
- What does your prayer life look like? What kind of prayers are you currently lifting up to God? How do you respond when you don’t receive the answers you expect?
- What practical step can you take this week to enhance your prayer life and support prayer growth in your LIFE Group?
Prayer Requests – CUHK
- Go deeper in discipleship this semester through our LCGs
- Go wider and reach new freshmen this semester who will commit to LIFE Group
- For a personal relationship with Jesus for all our members, so that wherever they go, they will follow and love Jesus!
Click here for full devotional link and other pre-fasting materials!