Jesus says in John 10:10, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” During this season of living with restrictions, but also pursuing heaven’s agenda through prayer and fasting, this warning coupled with a promise has been on my mind. The enemy takes things with the intent of harm and destruction, but Jesus takes things with the sole intention of giving better things, and not only that but abundant life. Think of the things Jesus is in the business of removing: sin, shame, condemnation, loneliness, addictions. When these things are removed, there’s new life!
For this fast, I chose to fast all food. It’s been challenging, but I’ve already been contemplating what foods I’ll continue to omit from my diet now that I’ve broken the stranglehold of things like sugar, caffeine, and junk food. These things are bad for me. So now that I’ve cleansed my body, why would I go back to consuming them?
Proverbs tells us “As a dog returns to its vomit, so fools repeat their folly” and “A sow that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud.” I’ve given up sugar multiple times in my life, but I’ve always gone back to eating it. I could kick myself! My human nature continues its folly. I turn to this cheap substitute for comfort or enjoyment, knowing that it’s bad for me. How true can that be of other sin in our life? What substances are we turning to, rather than seeking the comfort of the Comforter?
Ephesians 5 exhorts, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Let’s encourage one another to maintain these good habits we’re creating with this corporate fast and help each other continue leading a life of prayer and worship, giving us the ability to keep from falling into our past follies! If you are using a cheap substitute for fulfillment, cast it aside and ask for more Holy Spirit!