Scripture References: Matthew 6:16-18; Matthew 9:14-17; Matthew 17; Acts 13 & 14; Luke 2; Joel 1-2; Ezra 8; Daniel 6; Esther 4; Isaiah 58; Jeremiah 29:13

Intro: Welcome to our sermon series, "Holy Habits." We're shifting from trying to be like Jesus to training like Jesus, adopting His lifestyle practices (spiritual disciplines) to encounter God and be transformed. Today, we tackle fasting – not just abstaining from food, but abstaining for spiritual purposes, primarily to draw nearer to God. It's not radical or reserved for the elite; it's a normal, foundational Christian practice modeled by Jesus and the early church.

Key Points:

1. Fasting is Normal & Expected: Jesus assumes we will fast ("When you fast..." - Matt 6:16). It was a regular rhythm in ancient Israel and the early church, done privately and corporately for various lengths and reasons.
2. Motivation Matters: Fasting isn't for show (Matt 6:16-18). If done to impress others, that's the only reward. Fasting is done in secret for the Father, whose reward is far greater – Himself. Our motive should be God.
3. Why Fast? (Biblical Reasons):
   • To experience God's Power (Jesus' 40 days, Matt 17 - certain breakthroughs require prayer & fasting).
   • For Revelation & Direction (Acts 13 & 14).
   • For Fulfillment of Promises (Luke 2 - Anna).
   • In Crisis & for Protection (Joel, Ezra, Esther).
   • To Long for the Bridegroom: (Matt 9:14-17) Jesus is the bridegroom. While He was present, His disciples feasted. Now that He's physically ascended, we fast as an expression of longing, a homesickness for His presence, until the wedding feast. Fasting prepares us (like new wineskins) to receive the new wine of the Spirit.
4. What Fasting Teaches/Does:
   • Exposes Our Sin/What Controls Us: Irritability, anger, reliance on food for comfort surfaces.
   • Builds Compassion: Connects us with the poor and hungry.
   • Teaches Weakness & Dependence: We embrace voluntary weakness (fasting) to learn dependence on God, preparing us for involuntary weakness (sickness, persecution). Our strength isn't enough; His is.
   • Develops Spiritual Hunger: Physical hunger pangs become triggers to declare, "I'm hungry for You, God!" Fasting trains our appetite for Him, diminishing desires for lesser things (Jer 29:13).
   • Helps Us Feast on God: Jesus is the true Bread (John 6). Fasting clears space to partake in the "secret meal" – finding nourishment and satisfaction in Him alone.

Conclusion: Fasting is training in hunger for God. It's saying, "This much, O God, I want You!" It shifts our appetites away from the temporary things of the world that stuff our souls, making room for the greatness of God. It's an invitation to feast on Him, drawing close, knowing His heart, and experiencing His power.

Call to Action:

1. Consider Fasting: Don't let fear or excuses hold you back (unless genuine health reasons prevent it – consult a doctor/spiritual leader). Start simple: skip one meal, fast sundown to sundown. Decide the length beforehand.
2. Set Your Motive: Make God your goal and reward. Do it privately for Him.
3. Use the Hunger: Let physical hunger remind you to turn to God and declare your hunger for Him.
4. Seek Freedom: If food controls you (overindulgence or eating disorders), confess, seek prayer, counsel, and freedom in community.
5. Pray: Ask the Holy Spirit to awaken a deeper appetite for God within you. Ask Him to empty you of worldly "fillers" and satisfy y

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