Morning Devotion - Day 5 of the Fast

Good Morning, beloved.

It’s Day 5 of our 21-day fast, and I want to take a moment to acknowledge the dedication you’ve already shown. Fasting is not easy, but it is powerful. It takes great courage to set aside comforts, to deny your flesh, and to lean into the spirit, especially when your body is crying out for what it usually craves. But remember—this is a holy pursuit, and you are walking in obedience to the call of God. He is with you, even in the moments when you feel weak or tempted to quit.

As we journey through these days of fasting, let’s continue to keep our eyes on the bigger picture. Our focus is not just about the food or the sacrifice itself—it’s about drawing closer to the God who loves us beyond measure. Remember, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Peter 1:3).

This is the hope we are fasting for. It’s a living hope—a hope that doesn’t fade, a hope that grows stronger as we seek Him with our whole hearts. It’s a hope that strengthens us when we feel weary. It’s a hope that fills us with life, even when our bodies may feel weak.

In this season, you are not just abstaining from food; you are tapping into a deeper, more enduring hope. The resurrection of Jesus Christ means that no matter what we face in this world, there is always a reason to persevere. The trials we endure through fasting—whether they are physical hunger or emotional discomfort—are nothing compared to the living hope we have in Christ.

As you continue through this fast, I encourage you to press on with a spirit of joy and expectancy. You are laying down your flesh so that your spirit may rise up in a new way. God is refining you, strengthening you, and preparing you for something greater. Every moment of sacrifice is an opportunity to align your heart with His will, to deepen your relationship with Him, and to increase your sensitivity to the Holy Spirit.

Today’s Prayer Focus:

Let today be a day of surrender. Ask the Lord to help you set aside every distraction and fleshly desire that would pull you away from the purpose of this fast. Pray for greater intimacy with God, that you would encounter His presence in a fresh way.

 • Ask the Lord to reveal more of His living hope to you today.

 • Pray for strength to continue, no matter what temptation or weariness may come your way.

 • Ask God to give you eyes to see the fruit of your fast, even in small ways.

 • And, pray for perseverance—for the ability to keep going, even when it feels hard.

You are not alone in this journey. The God who raised Jesus from the dead is with you every step of the way, and He is faithful to finish the work He has begun in you.

Be encouraged today—your sacrifice is not in vain. Keep pressing on. A living hope awaits.

Blessings,

Pastor