A Key to Moving Up

Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor. James 4:10 (New Living Translation, NLT)

But as for me, when they were sick, My clothing was sackcloth; I humbled myself with fasting; And my prayer would return to my own heart. Psalm 35:13 (NKJV)

According to the Book of James, when we humble ourselves before God, He will lift us up. And a key way to humble ourselves is by fasting.

If we desire to move up to higher levels in God, fasting is one thing that will take us in that direction. When we need to hear God more clearly and understand His will more fully, we humble ourselves by prayer and fasting.

Let me be clear, fasting is not a way to move God. It is a way to get closer to God, to surrender our will to His. When we submit to Him, He will promote us- both spiritually and naturally. Of course, our goal is to be closer to Him, but there are other benefits that come with it. Fasting puts down the flesh so our spirit man can be more in charge and we can hear the voice of God and discern His will more readily. Fasting also produces good health and other positive outcomes.

“Then your salvation will come like the dawn, and your wounds will quickly heal. Your godliness will lead you forward, and the glory of the Lord will protect you from behind. Then when you call, the Lord will answer. ‘Yes, I am here,’ he will quickly reply. “Remove the heavy yoke of oppression. Stop pointing your finger and spreading vicious rumors! Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon. The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. 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. Isaiah 58:8-12 (New Living Translation, NLT)

The Bible is filled with people who overcame through fasting. From Moses to Esther to Jesus to Paul, fasting has played a key role in people’s fulfillment of their destiny. I invite you start a fast. Whether it is for one day or several, push back the plate, saying no to food and yes to God.

If you choose to fast, be wise about it. I never recommend going for extended periods without water. You can fast solid food, and drink only juices and broth. Or you can simply choose to fast certain types of food. There many ways to fast. Fasting basically involves giving something up. And if you have a health condition or are on medication, ask a healthcare professional how you can safely fast. Maybe you’ll choose to give up sweets for a time, or soft drinks. The key is to start. Ask God to guide you into the fast He would have you do and request His grace and empowerment to do it.

As you humble yourself before the Lord in fasting, He will take you higher than you ever thought possible. And that beats a slice of pizza any day!