Sunday, April 13, 2008

Is this not the fast that I choose?

Recently, I have been desiring more prayer in my life. Before, I have been doing a lot. But now I realize the need for prayer. Also, I heard about fasting but I did not see the value of it until I read Isaiah 58:6-7:

"Is this not the fast that I choose,
To loosen the bonds of wickedness,
To undo the bands of the yoke?
And to let the oppressed go free,
And to break every yoke?
Is it not to divide your bread to the hungry,
And to bring the wandering poor home;
When you see the naked, to cover him,
And not to hide yourself from your own flesh?"

This passage seems to tell me what God is after. I see people, even Christians, who are in bonds of wickedness and in all kinds of yoke. How are they going to be freed? Why is that people around me are tormented for so many years? This makes me consider that there is something that I cannot do. I can be nice to them. I can try to help them. But I cannot free them! Unless I am willing to afflict my soul and fast (v. 3).

Oh Lord, I believe that this is Your desire. Grant me experiences in fighting for You in prayer and fasting.

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