Do you know someone who is persistent? Maybe they are characteristically known as somebody who is driven or determined. Regardless of what they may be facing or feeling in the moment, they are unrelenting and unshakable.

Jesus emphasizes this kind of approach when it comes to the spiritual disciplines of fasting and prayer because they are powerful ways to draw near to God, experience His presence, and receive His blessings.

Moses, David, Elijah, Paul, and even Jesus Himself fasted to seek God’s intervention, receive revelation, and demonstrate dependence on Him. Jesus fasted for forty days and nights in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-2), setting an example for His followers. And as you read further in the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus extends a powerful invitation and promise to His followers:

Matthew 7:7-8,

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, it will be opened.”

These verses capture the essence of the Christian faith and reveal God’s heart toward those who earnestly seek Him.

Asking: Fasting and prayer humbles us, prompting us to ask God for guidance, provision, and intervention. It acknowledges our need for His wisdom and strength.

Seeking: Fasting and prayer compels intentional pursuit of God, seeking a deeper understanding of His will and purpose. It expresses a genuine desire to know Him intimately and aligns our hearts with His.

Knocking: Fasting and prayer encourages persistent prayer and a determined pursuit of God, removing distractions and busyness to connect with Him profoundly.

Fasting is not a guarantee of immediate answers, but it is an act of faith that aligns us with God’s purposes and prepares our hearts to receive His will. Jesus assures that those who ask will receive, those who seek will find, and those who knock will have the door opened.

Be reminded today of the importance of seeking God through fasting, knowing that our Heavenly Father always responds as we earnestly seek Him. So don’t stop and don’t give up. Keep asking, seeking, and knocking!

Scriptures

Matthew 7:7-8 (NIV)
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”