The rewards of fasting and praying
Isaiah 58:6 Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? 58:7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? 58:8 Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. 58:9 Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; 58:10 And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day: 58:11 And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. 58:12 And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.
In the scripture passage, prophet Isaiah begins by defining the kind of fasting that pleases God. True fasting is not just abstaining from food but involves acts of justice and compassion. It is about loosening the chains of injustice, setting the oppressed free, sharing food with the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, and clothing the naked.
True fasting aligns our hearts with God's heart, focusing on loving and serving others. When we fast with this intention, we become instruments of God's love and justice in the world.
When we engage in true fasting, God promises that our light will break forth like the dawn, and our healing will quickly appear. This light represents God's presence and favor in our lives.
It dispels the darkness of sin and despair, bringing hope and restoration. Healing, both physical and spiritual, follows when we align ourselves with God's purposes. By fasting and praying, we invite God's transformative power into our lives and the lives of those around us.
In verses 9-11 we are assured that when we fast and pray in accordance with God's will, He will guide us continually and satisfy our needs. In times of uncertainty and difficulty, we can trust in God's direction and provision.
He will strengthen us and make us like a well-watered garden, vibrant and full of life. Additionally, God promises to be our rear guard, protecting us from harm and keeping us secure. This assurance of guidance and protection is a profound reward for those who seek God through fasting and prayer.
Finally, there is restoration and renewal that comes from true fasting. We are called to rebuild ancient ruins and raise up age-old foundations. Our actions and prayers can bring healing to broken relationships, communities, and systems.
We become known as Repairers of Broken Walls and Restorers of Streets with Dwellings. Our commitment to fasting and praying can lead to a renewed and transformed society, reflecting God's kingdom on earth.
In conclusion, Fasting and praying are powerful spiritual disciplines that draw us closer to God and enable us to participate in His work of justice, compassion, and restoration. As we engage in true fasting, we experience the rewards of God's presence, guidance, protection, and renewal. Let us commit ourselves to fasting and praying with a heart aligned to God's purposes, trusting that He will bring about transformation in our lives and the world around us.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord, grant us the grace of true fasting and prayer as we journey through life in Jesus Christ name.
3. Lord, grant us the blessings and rewards that comes from true fasting and prayers in Jesus Christ name.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.