21 Days of Prayer and FastingSample

STAY UNDER

When I think about humbling myself under God's hand, I think about his protection and his desire for us to draw near and not venture off.

How do we stay under God’s hand?

Consistent obedience, intentionality, and most importantly, God’s strength & our love for Him. We must first recognize there is an internal battle going on between our flesh and spirit. Jesus told his disciples in Matthew 26, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Our spirit wants to draw near to God, but our human desires and distractions can triumph. It takes God’s strength and practicing denying self.

Fasting is one way we practice denying ourselves. It raises our spiritual antennas and helps us become more sober-minded, alert, paying attention to what hinders us and the enemy's schemes. By God's grace and strength, you can deny the enemy access and a foothold in your life. It can feel like you're suffering greatly. You may feel weak, tempted, and your mind won't stop thinking about what you want. After a little while, though, He will restore you, help your faith be made firm, strengthen your relationship with Him, and establish you.

Stay under His hand.

- Melissa Richey, Go and Be Director