The Fast: DAY 5
Thursday, January 8
Nehemiah 9:1-3 (NKJV)
“Now on the twenty-fourth day of this month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, in sackcloth, and with dust on their heads. Then those of Israelite lineage separated themselves from all foreigners; and they stood and confessed their sins and the iniquities of their fathers. And they stood up in their place and read from the Book of the Law of the LORD their God for one-fourth of the day; and for another fourth they confessed and worshiped the LORD their God.
Devotion
In today’s passage, it appears that as the Israelites humbled and consecrated themselves—confessed their sins and devoted time to the Word, prayer, and worship—they were positioning themselves for God to intervene in their lives in a mighty way. This past Sunday, Pastor Jentezen painted a powerful picture of the house of God spending three hours in the Word and three hours in prayer and worship. He challenged us to imagine how much God would intervene in our lives, how much healing we would experience, how many dreams would come to pass, how many prayers would be answered, how many people would return to the work of God, and how many would rise up in the calling God has placed on our lives. Can we imagine how much our lives would change if we committed to this for just 21 days out of the 365 days in a year?
When we fast, pray, and seek God first, He responds. He responds with clarity, direction, and a revealed pathway toward our destiny. This is the moment to stay humble, stay hungry, and make room for God to move. If we desire real change, healing, and answered prayers, fasting becomes the catalyst for God’s mighty intervention in our lives. Again, can you imagine how much our lives would change if we committed to this for just 21 days out of the 365 days in a year?
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Here I am, Lord. I desire a change in my life. I want what You have planned for me. Please teach me Your ways and help me to understand Your thoughts. Lead me by Your precious Holy Spirit. I am Yours. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Our approach to seeking God during the fast must always start with humility. He knows what we need in this juncture of our lives, and His ways are always higher than our own. If we commit to listening for His voice and closely following His direction for the next 21 days, He will show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. He’s been looking for people just like you. He sees our hearts and our hunger.
Resources
- As we continue this fast, let’s stay anchored in the Word. Download the Bible reading plan to help you remain consistent, focused, and spiritually nourished each day.
- Subscribe to these podcasts for daily inspiration on your favorite platform: Jentezen Franklin at Free Chapel, Mentoring Moments, and Free Chapel Young Adults—perfect for your commute, work, or chores!
- Discover how to carry God’s presence with you wherever you go! Watch the message “How to Carry His Presence” and be empowered to walk in His peace, power, and purpose every day.
Join The Fast