Simply stated, biblical fasting is refraining from food for a spiritual purpose. According to the Bible, there are three duties of every Christian: give, pray and fast.
Biblical fasting takes a lot of discipline and strength—strength which you can only receive from God. Your private discipline will bring you rewards in Heaven, says Matthew 6.
When you give God your first through fasting, prayer and giving at the beginning of the year, you set the course for the entire year.
As the Bible shows us, there are some things in our life that will only happen through prayer and fasting...
-Are you in need of healing or a miracle?
-Do you need the tender touch of God in your life?
-Is there a dream inside you that only He can make possible?
-Are you in need of a fresh encounter?
-Do you desire a deeper, more intimate and powerful relationship with the Lord?
-Are you ready to have heightened sensitivity to the desires of God?
-Do you need to break away from bondages that have been holding you hostage?
-Is there a friend or loved one that needs Salvation?
-Do you desire to know God’s will for your life?
There's something powerful that happens when the church unites together with a singular focus and calling on God. Especially at the start of a new year, we are planting the seeds of faith for what God would have in store for us, believing for more than we could ever ask or imagine.
To strengthen and encourage our efforts, we will be gathering:
WEDNESDAY NIGHTS (January 8, 15 & 22) - 7.00pm
SATURDAY MORNINGS (January 11, 18, 25) - 9.00am
Our time will be spent praying together and calling on God for miracles, wisdom, direction and grace on all He has called us to do.
Unable to make the morning prayer times? That's okay...just know as you are seeking God, we are joining with you in prayer, believing for all that God has in store.
There are several types of fasting. The one you choose is between you and God. He will honor your best sacrifice.
FULL FAST
Drink only liquids
PARTIAL FAST
One, two or three meals a day; sunrise-to-sunset; 6a - 3p. You can select from three types of fasting - full, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food that serves as a preferential option.
THE DANIEL FAST
Eat no meat, no sweets and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables. For more details on the Daniel Fast, check out meal options here.
**In addition to fasting food, consider fasting entertainment options, such as social media, movies, entertainment streaming, as way of removing extra distractions.
Increased spiritual awareness:
By setting aside physical preferences, we can become more attuned to what God is doing and what He wants to say in our life.
Humility and dependence on God:
Fasting can serve as a reminder of our reliance on God and a way to humble ourselves before him.
Focus and intensity in prayer:
Fasting can intensify our focus and earnestness in prayer.
Self-control and discipline:
Intentionally abstaining from food or other desires cultivates self-discipline and the ability to control one's impulses.
Seeking God's guidance:
Prayer and fasting can be used as a dedicated time to seek God's direction and wisdom in important decisions - new job, house, car, relationship, etc.
Supernatural healings & miracles:
The bible shows us there are some things that can only happen through prayer and fasting. When we fast, we are relying on what only God can do in our lives.
Overcoming temptation:
By denying physical desires, we can gain a renewed strength to resist spiritual temptations or overcoming the things that control us.
Spiritual growth and renewal:
Regularly engaging in prayer and fasting can lead to personal spiritual transformation and a closer relationship with God.
• Salvations, Water Baptisms, and Discipleship
• Spiritual growth, renewal and favor on the people of Crossroads Church
• Outpouring of God's presence on the church
• XR KIDS & XRYTH
• XR POP-UP CHURCH NIGHTS
• MEN’S & WOMEN’S EVENTS
• Connect Groups: For people to find community
• GLOBAL MISSIONS IMPACT
• LOCAL OUTREACH PARTNERSHIPS - RESCUE MISSION, ABBA CARE PRISON MINISTRY, & HERE TO SERVE OPPORTUNITIES
• Local schools, students, teachers and administration
GRATITUDE - Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. Psalms 100.4
REMEMBER - I remember the days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done. Psalms 143.5
REQUEST - Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Phillipians 4.6
EXPECTATIONS - May your kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Matthew 6.10
HOW TO BEGIN
Start with a clear goal. Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, restoration of marriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Pray daily and read the Bible.
PREPARING SPIRITUALLY
Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4). Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2).
DECIDING WHAT TO FAST
The type of fasting you choose is up to you. You could go on a full fast in which you only drink liquids, or you may desire to fast like Daniel, who abstained from sweets and meats, and the only liquid he drank was water and juice. Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study.
WHAT TO EXPECT
When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s face.
HOW TO END
Don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.