Nearer, Deeper, Stronger

We are now approaching the end of the first week of the 2026 21-day fast. Without question, it has been a complex and challenging journey for many, especially as winter weather can make endurance even more difficult. Let’s continue this fast, comparing it to an unknown attempt to draw closer to God.

Fasting, repentance, seeking direction, gaining clarity in our lives, guidance, and humility—these are the true purposes of our fast. It’s about spiritually renewing ourselves and aligning our lives with God. I believe it’s a necessity for a quarter of our lives.

The goal isn’t to impress God with our fasting, but to genuinely draw nearer to Him, to listen for His voice, follow His guidance, and stay obedient to His will.

I get a sense that we need to tame the flesh and develop a quiet understanding—receiving direction from God as an act of His will and purpose for each of us, as well as for our church community.

Jesus taught us to fast privately, not to show off but to avoid turning it into a public badge of holiness (Matthew 6:16-18). Fasting isn’t about changing God; it’s about becoming more like Him. The real challenge is whether we are allowing God to take control and reflect His image in us—tuned into His glory.

When we fast, it’s helpful to consider more than just food. We should also step back from social media, television, and all the things we usually read or listen to. Instead, we can spend time in God’s Word, changing the music we listen to, and dedicating moments to prayer, reflection, solitude, silence, and gratitude. These practices nurture a positive spiritual relationship with God.

As we continue on this journey, we also need clarity about the purpose and direction of our acts of worship, devotion, or lamentation. They are expressions of our commitment, contributing to social justice. Isaiah 58:6-8 reminds us:

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke…”

During this time, I encourage you to envision your purpose for 2026—new adventures, opportunities you wish to pursue, healing, restoration, salvation, and the building of God’s kingdom through our families, churches, and communities. Let’s wait on the Lord; He will respond. When we seek Him earnestly, He will help us rise and run again.

Interestingly, as we fast physically, our bodies might feel weaker, but our spirits can become stronger. We must also stay alert because the devil will try to tempt and distract us.

As Bill Bright, an American evangelist, once said, “Fasting reduces the power of self so that the Holy Spirit can do a more intense work within us.”