The Fast: DAY 13
Friday, January 16
Isaiah 58:12 (NLT)
“Some of you will rebuild the deserted ruins of your cities. Then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls and a restorer of homes.”
Devotion
In this chapter of scripture, Isaiah 58, the LORD is speaking through Isaiah to the people, rebuking them for their sin of pride. The people even tell God, “‘We have fasted before you!’ they say. ‘Why aren’t you impressed? We have been very hard on ourselves, and you don’t even notice it!’” (Isaiah 58:3). The LORD responds to this with correction, saying He will never honor this kind of prideful, all-for-show fast. Instead, He wants actions that come from a pure heart. He wants those you’re holding in chains to be freed. He wants you to share what you have with those who don’t have it. He wants you to help your family. If you do these things, then comes the blessing. Then comes the answered prayers that you fasted for, because you are doing it with a Godly heart.
The LORD says in our theme Scripture today, “If you will do these things, then you will be known as a rebuilder of walls and a restorer of homes.” This isn't a common title we give to people. It doesn’t just come to mind when you’re thinking about those in your life. But what a title to have! Think about being known as someone who rebuilt walls that had been torn down by the enemy. Someone who aided in restoring the brokenness found in a home. Someone who didn’t just talk the “Christian talk” but walked out a life of love, sacrifice, and selflessness, all the while staying steadfast in prayer and fasting until the breakthrough came.
That’s the kind of legacy that impacts the third and fourth generations of our family. That’s the kind of title that changes bloodlines. Those actions the LORD is demanding in chapter 58 are the seeds that bring renewal and restoration. That’s the kind of light that can’t be overcome by the darkness of the world.
As we continue this fast, think about this passage of scripture and search your own heart. What is your reason for fasting in 2026? Is it to impress God? Is it to boast to others? Or is it to fight for the broken? Is it to intercede for those falsely bound by the enemy? Is it to help your family? When fasting is done in connection with a pure heart and selfless action, then the blessing will come. Ask Him to refocus you today. He’s waiting!
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Purify my heart and show me how to rebuild what’s broken. Let my fasting and prayers bring healing, restoration, and hope to those around me. Use me to shine Your light. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Look for one way today to restore or help someone, your family, a friend, or your community. Pair your fasting with action, and let God’s love flow through what you do.
Resources
- Don’t just fast, serve! Join a Serve Team and let God use your gifts to touch lives around you.
- Your complete victory is closer than you think! Watch “Fasting for Complete Victory” and see God’s power move in your life and the lives of your loved ones.
- Stay connected and inspired during this season of fasting! Don’t miss any of our special events and activities, visit freechapel.org/events to see what’s happening and join us.
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