The Fast: DAY 17
Tuesday, January 20
Psalm 57:5-7 (NKJV)
“Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let Your glory be above all the earth. They have prepared a net for my steps; My soul is bowed down; They have dug a pit before me; Into the midst of it they themselves have fallen. Selah. My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise.”
Devotion
Before David’s bold faith declaration, “My heart is fixed,” in Psalm 57, there was a history of trust developed between God and him. The author who penned, “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want,” and “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to You,” had also developed a close relationship with God by pursuing His heart. God testifies of this very thing. Acts 13:22 reads, “…He raised up David to be their king, concerning whom He also testified and said, ‘I have found David, the son of Jesse, a man after My heart, who will do all My will.’”
In those times of isolation while shepherding sheep, David came to know Him. There were no competing forces, no distractions. God had his full attention, worship, devotion, and trust.
Likewise, in times of appointed fasting, intentional reading of the Word, and staying before Him in prayer, God is developing trust, strength, purity, and faithfulness. He is forming an Anchor inside of us. Regardless of what pressures or challenges we may face in future days, it is through this relationship that our heart is fixed—unmovable. Our faith is steadfast because we know the One who is able to deliver.
Development of steadfastness comes from a partnership. Jesus stated, “I am the vine; you are the branches. He who abides (dwells, remains, stays) in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit, for without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Stay with Him—not just until the end of this fast, but for the rest of your days.
“Now unto Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.” (Jude 1:24,25)
May this fast be the seed for a great legacy that is passed onto generations, as you fix your heart on Him.
Today's Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Teach me Your ways, O Lord, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Cause my heart, O God, to stand holy and upright before You. You are my glory and the lifter of my head. You are the Rock upon which I fix my heart. In You, I put my trust. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
Apply It Today
Let this fast be the beginning of new perspectives and a deeper relationship with the Lord. What He has begun here, allow it to continue and grow inside of you. Be encouraged to journal the important lessons, truths, and new habits learned during these 21 days as a reminder of His abiding work in you.
Resources
- The fast may be ending, but your journey doesn’t have to. Stay connected in a Connect Group and walk out what God is doing in your life with a community of believers.
- David guarded his heart, and it changed everything. Learn how to protect yours—watch this short clip, “Guard Your Heart” now!
- Prayer Guide: Praise before petition — thank Him first for who He is
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