DEVOTIONAL GUIDE
21 DAYS
OF
& FASTING
PRAYER
21 DAYS OF A FAMILY THAT PRAYS
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Biblical Guide to Fasting
Why are we fasting?
The Bible does not command Christians to fast, nor does God require it of them. How-
ever, fasting is presented in Scripture as something good, profitable, and beneficial.
The book of Acts mentions believers fasting before making important decisions (Acts
13:2; 14:23). Additionally, fasting is often linked with prayer (Luke 2:37; 5:33).
The goal of fasting is to draw closer to God. Spiritual fasting includes setting aside
activities and/or reducing your food intake and replacing these activities with prayer
and preoccupation with spiritual concerns. Fasting also enables us to celebrate the
goodness and mercy of God and prepares our hearts for all the good things God
desires to bring into our lives. Remember, your personal fast should present a level
of challenge, but it is very important to know your body and your options and, most
importantly, to seek God in prayer and follow what the Holy Spirit leads.
Why are we fasting for 21 days?
The 21-day model is inspired by Daniel's partial fasting as described in the Book of
Daniel, particularly in chapters 10 and 1. The Bible says, "But Daniel resolved not to
defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for per-
mission not to defile himself this way” (Daniel 1:8). In Daniel 10:2-13, it is noted that
Daniel mourned for 21 days without eating meat or other delicacies. After this period
of fasting, he experienced a breakthrough and received answers to his prayers. This
fast was a time of mourning for Daniel and served as a way for him to seek under-
Dear Church Family,
Each January, we dedicate 21 days to corporate
prayer and
fasting. We are consistently amazed by the unique
and special ways in which God meets us during this
time. The One Church @ Harvest Point 21 Days of
Fasting and Prayer Devotional is designed to encour-
age and strengthen you as you take this opportunity
to grow closer to our Lord.
This year, families from our local church have con-
tributed the devotionals and prayers for each day. We
have also included a Biblical Guide to Fasting along
with several fasting options. While corporate prayer
is a regular part of our Sunday gatherings, we hope
that these 21 days of prayer and fasting will be
transformative for all who seek Him.
