
THE PLACE OF PRAYER AND FASTING
“Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” Matthew 17:21
Prayer and fasting are non-negotiable requirements for access to revelation, which comes principally from Word study.
Prayer and Word Study (Psalm 119:18)
Clearly, it is essential to study the Bible prayerfully. This could be said to be the first step in understanding the Bible. Word study should be approached with a prayerful desire to learn (Psalm 86:11). After all, it is spiritual food (Jeremiah 15:16; 1 Peter 2:2).
God Himself is the Word and also the Author of the Word (John 1:1-4). Therefore, there cannot be an effective study of the Word without involving the Initiator. He alone can best interpret His Word to your understanding, if you invite Him in prayer.
Fasting and Word Study (Isaiah 58:1-9)
True fasting can be defined as voluntarily going without food, in order to focus on a spiritual exercise. It is resisting and fleeing from selfish desires. It is not about avoiding physical food while indulging one’s greed and selfishness, but to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free (Isaiah 58:1-9).
However, fasting without prayer equals starvation (Matthew 6:16). That is why it is highly beneficial to maximise your fasting period in prayer and Word study.
Prayer, Fasting & Word Study (Matthew 6:16-18)
In this context, having a dedicated time of prayer and fasting is not a way of manipulating God to do what you desire. It is simply compelling yourself to focus and rely on God for the strength, provision, and wisdom you need from His Word through meditation (Hebrews 5:13-14; 1 Kings 19:7-15; John 4:32-34).
The place of prayer and fasting cannot be overemphasised in effectual study of the Word. So, when you go to God in prayer backed up with fasting, He opens your eyes of understanding to the mystery behind the letters that you may never have thought of.
Prayer and fasting are essential factors for building a real relationship with God through His Word. By taking our eyes off the things of this world through prayer and fasting, we can focus better on Christ (Matthew 6:16-18).
It is, therefore, expedient for you to spend time fasting and praying, in order to gain a deeper fellowship with God through His Word.
It is not enough to fast and pray; it is also important to expect definite encounters from the Word, while studying. The Interpreter (the Holy Spirit is ever present to grant your heart’s desires, as you engage prayerfully in that study.
Supplication and revelation go hand in hand.
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;” Ephesians 6:18
As you pray, the Holy Ghost unveils some revelations of His Word that are answers to certain issues in your life. Fasting causes your light (revelation)to break forth.
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen..? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning…” Isaiah 58:6-8
Prayer and fasting boosts your access to revelation, when you study God’s Word. With your heart devoid of distractions as you fast, access to revelation becomes very easy.
Therefore, expect a free flow of revelation that proffers solutions to the issues of your life, as you study the Word when you fast and pray…
This text is an extract from the book “GUIDELINES TO EFFECTIVE PERSONAL BIBLE STUDY” written by Faith A. Oyedepo.
We invite you to read the following article “MAXIMISING THE BENEFITS OF THE WORD“.
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