The Awake 21 blog really encouraged me today.
When we pray and fast, we don’t do so to change God or His will; by praying and fasting, we are the ones changed.I read that, sat back in my chair, and went, "Whoa." It's so true. This is the first time I've fasted in a very long time, and it's a personal struggle. It's almost like telling my body for the first time in a long time that it doesn't really have control of me, that God is more important to me than food or drink. I don't mean to brag at all by this. It's like a personal admission for me. I haven't wanted to fast because I haven't been willing to give up the simple pleasure and God-given gift of eating. It is a gift. I think of all the people across the world who are going hungry tonight, and not by choice. For me, I get to choose it. But they don't. And that kicks me in the gut. For me, the only side effects I'm experiencing at the moment are a growling stomach, heightened sensitivity (ex. more annoyed and cranky), and lack of focus and energy. Think that at least x10 for them. It blows me away. I think that's been the purpose of this fasting day. God wanted me to realize on a deeper level what people across the world are experiencing right now, and have been for centuries. That puts so much more importance on the work that Feed My Starving Children, Compassion International, Samaritan's Purse, Children's Cup, and so many more ministries are doing.
And speaking of relief work, today is the 1 year anniversary of the Haiti earthquake. It is mind-boggling to think that that happened an entire year ago. It feels like yesterday. Don't forget to pray for them! God is doing HUGE things down there - revivals, bringing people to Him, stirring up His people and working through awesome organizations to bring aid. But there's still a lot of work to be done there, so don't let it get off of your radar!
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