Through fasting, we can refocus our attention on the Lord. We can set our heart on God and the plans He has for our lives.

Fasting is a powerful way to redirect your attention. A redirection to what is truly important: your relationship with God. As you fast, you can use the extra time gained to spend more time with God. This increased engagement with God is a great way to learn more about who God is and what He wants for you. Sacrificing your personal time for time spent with God is at the core of fasting's purpose. God desires to be with you. Spending time with Him while fasting is a perfect way to give Him an opportunity to guide you. Daniel Sandler talks about the purpose of fasting and how it is a great way to set your heart on God.

Try and find time this week to give up a meal or another activity to spend more time being intentional with God. As Daniel said, fasting is more than an act of obedience, it is a gift to cultivate better habits in your life. Fasting can be a very rewarding experience where you find peace in the presence of God. Use the extra time you have with God to listen to where He is calling you in your life. Think beyond this specific time of fasting. What is something greater that God wants you to consider as an outcome of this fast?

Apply

• What is one way you can be intentional with God in your time of fasting?
• How can you best prepare yourself to hear from God?

Scripture

Jeremiah 33:3

3 ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’

Psalms 5:11

11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad;

let them ever sing for joy.

Spread your protection over them,

that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

Plan Summary

In the middle of Proverbs 22, there is a powerful verse. It is almost as if Solomon called a time out to remind the reader why he gives these life lessons. It says, “I am teaching you today — yes, you — so you will trust in the Lord” (NLT). That is it. God uses life lessons to build our trust. Our prayer is that these five days spent learning about fasting with a purpose have been a reminder to do that — to increase your trust in Him.