JANUARY 3 - HOW CHRISTIANS SHOULD FAST
“But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret.” (Matthew 6:17–18)
At Celebration we’re praying that 2026 will be one of your best years ever. We want you to join us tomorrow, January 4, as we begin our SMART CHOICES sermon series. We will also begin our 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting after lunch on Sunday, which is something that we annually do at Celebration. For the next couple of days we’re going to be sharing with you about what prayer and fasting are all about, so you can consider joining us for this special emphasis.
Devotional Thought: Jesus explained that there was a right way to fast and a wrong way to fast. Here are a few points He shared:
- Fast with humility, not for attention.
Jesus makes it clear: fasting is between you and God. It is not a social announcement or a spiritual performance. When we seek God in private, He affirms us in public. - Fast with intentionality, not confusion.
A fast without purpose becomes a frustration. Determine ahead of time:What am I believing God to do in me?What spiritual habits will I practice daily?
What am I surrendering to the Lord during this fast?
- Fast with grace, not legalism.
Fasting is not about perfection. It’s about pursuit. If you stumble, get back up. If you feel weak, pray. If you feel hungry, seek the Word. It is not about perfection when it comes to our relationship with God but progression.
Prayer Focus: Lord, guide me as I fast. Keep my heart pure, my motives sincere, and my focus on You alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Follow-Up Activity:
Create a simple plan for your fast:
- What I’m fasting from: _________
- How I will seek God daily: _________
- One breakthrough I’m believing for: _________
