Saturday, January 6th, Day 1 -
The theme of prayer and fasting resonates deeply with me as it represents a time of spiritual dedication, seeking, and intimacy with God our Father, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior through the Holy Spirit!. Prayer and fasting serves as a reminder of humility, discipline, and the pursuit of spiritual breakthrough. I have two themes "King Jesus is in the room" and " Spiritual Protection" as Pastor has had our focus and attention on this the past few weeks and wanted to take this though thru the New Year as it adds an additional dimension of acknowledging the presence and authority of King Jesus And His protection in the midst of our spiritual journey. It's a theme that calls for reverence, repentance, and a conscious effort to align our hearts with the will of the King. Overall, the theme of prayer and fasting holds the promise of transformation, renewal, and a deeper connection with Father God, Jesus our Savior and the Holy Spirit, which makes it both compelling and personal.

The Bible contains numerous verses and passages that address fasting and prayer, highlighting their spiritual significance and the profound connection between seeking God our Father through these practices. Here I have used a few verses from the NIV Bible:
1. Matthew 6:16-18 (NIV): "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."

2. Matthew 17:21 (NIV): "But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting."

3. Acts 13:2-3 (NIV): "While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off."

4. Isaiah 58:6-7 (NIV): "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to lose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?"

5. Joel 2:12 (NIV): "Even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning." These verses emphasize the importance of sincerity, humility, and the internal aspect of fasting and prayer. They also highlight the connection between fasting, prayer, and seeking guidance, the call to social justice and compassion, and the spiritual renewal and repentance that accompany these practices. The NIV Bible underscores the deep spiritual significance of fasting and prayer, portraying them as integral aspects of the believer's relationship with God our Father and the pursuit of spiritual intimacy, growth, and alignment with God's will.

Seeking spiritual intimacy and connection with Father God through prayer and fasting holds profound significance in various ways. Here are some key reflections on its significance:

Key # 1. Internal Alignment:
Prayer and fasting create an opportunity for internal alignment. It allows individuals to realign their thoughts, emotions, and desires with a spiritual focus, leading to a sense of harmony and peace within.

Key # 2. Spiritual Renewal:
Engaging in prayer and fasting can bring about a greater sense of renewal at a spiritual level. It provides the space for individuals to renew their commitment to faith, to go even deeper into their spiritual beliefs of God's truth, and rejuvenate their connection with Father God.

Key # 3. Humility and Surrender:
Fasting and prayer require individuals to practice humility and total surrender. By willingly refraining from physical nourishment, one demonstrates a willingness to prioritize spiritual nourishment and the pursuit of Holy Spirit enlightenment.

Key # 4. Seeking Guidance:
The act of prayer and fasting serves as a way to seek guidance from Father God. It's an opportunity to lay bare one's aspirations, fears, and uncertainties, and invite the guidance and wisdom of the Holy Spirit in navigating life's complexities.

Key # 5. Cleansing and Purification:
Fasting, when combined with prayer, is often seen as a means of spiritual cleansing and purification. It symbolizes a detoxification of the mind, body, and spirit, allowing one to draw closer to God by shedding distractions and impurities.

Key # 6. Connection and Community:
A collective observance of prayer and fasting can also create a sense of communal connection. It brings together individuals who seek similar spiritual growth, fostering a shared sense of purpose and community support.
Key # 7. Spiritual Growth:
Lastly, the significance of seeking spiritual intimacy and connection through prayer and fasting lies in the profound potential for spiritual growth. It provides an avenue for personal transformation, insight, and the deepening of one's faith journey. Overall, prayer and fasting hold deep significance as they offer individuals a powerful and purposeful way to seek spiritual intimacy, renewal, and connection with Father God, Jesus our Lord and Savior through the Holy Spirit, fostering personal growth and a profound sense of spiritual fulfillment.

Seeking spiritual intimacy through prayer and fasting presents both challenges and rewards, each contributing to the profound significance of this spiritual journey. Here's a reflection on the challenges and rewards of this pursuit:

Challenges:

1. Physical Discipline:
The act of fasting, especially for an extended period, presents a physical challenge as it requires discipline to abstain from food and sometimes other indulgences, like social media, TV, hobbies and other things that take your focus. It can be physically demanding and may lead to discomfort and fatigue.

2. Mental and Emotional Strain:
Fasting can bring about mental and emotional strain as individuals navigate hunger pangs, mood fluctuations, and the psychological impact of refraining from regular sustenance. This can test one's mental and emotional resilience.

3. Distractions and Temptations:
Living in a world filled with distractions and temptations, individuals may find it challenging to maintain focus and commitment to prayer and fasting amidst daily responsibilities and external influences.

4. Spiritual Dryness:
There may be times during the journey of seeking spiritual intimacy when individuals experience spiritual dryness, feeling distant from Father God and struggling to hear His voice through the Holy Spirit in prayer and fasting.

Rewards:

1. Deepened Spiritual Connection:
The rewards of seeking spiritual intimacy through prayer and fasting include a deepened spiritual connection with Father God. This can lead to a profound sense of peace, purpose, and spiritual fulfillment.

2. Renewed Perspective:
Engaging in prayer and fasting often brings about a renewed perspective on life, faith, and personal values. It can lead to clarity of mind and a fresh outlook on one's spiritual journey.

3. Personal Discipline and Growth:
Overcoming the challenges of fasting and committing to prayer can foster personal discipline and growth. It teaches individuals to persevere through physical and mental challenges, cultivating strength of character.

4. Revelation and Insight:
In the pursuit of spiritual intimacy, individuals may experience moments of revelation and insight, gaining a deeper understanding of their faith, purpose, and the nature of their connection with the Divine.

5. Spiritual Breakthrough:
One of the most profound rewards of seeking spiritual intimacy through prayer and fasting is the potential for spiritual breakthrough. This breakthrough can manifest as answers to prayers, profound personal revelations, and a heightened awareness of theHoly Spirit's presence.

6. Community and Support:
Engaging in prayer and fasting alongside a community/ (Your church family) can provide a sense of shared experience and support, strengthening bonds and fostering a collective pursuit of spiritual intimacy. Despite the challenges, the rewards of seeking spiritual intimacy through prayer and fasting are multifaceted, offering individuals the potential for personal growth, connection with, and a deep sense of spiritual fulfillment.

Sunday, January 7th, Day 2 -
The Presence of the King -"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." - Matthew 18:20
Brief Story - I once visited a small prayer group where believers gathered in the name of Jesus. As we prayed together, we felt His presence in our midst, strengthening and comforting us.
Sample Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for your promise to be present when we gather in your name. May we always feel your presence, and may it encourage and uplift us.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place." - Genesis 28:16 I can continue to create content for each day if you'd like.

Monday, January 8th, Day 3 -
Embracing the King's Authority -"And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'" Matthew 28:18
Brief Story- In a moment of hardship, a friend of mine felt powerless. But as she prayed and acknowledged Jesus' authority, she found strength and courage she had not known before.
Sample Prayer:
Lord Jesus, we embrace your authority over every aspect of our lives. May we surrender our will to yours and find strength in your sovereign rule.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all." - Psalm 103:19.

Tuesday, January 9th, Day 4 -
The Majesty of the King - "For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods." - Psalm 95:3
Brief Story- During a majestic sunrise, I couldn't help but recognize the greatness of God as the ultimate King. His creation reflected His majesty in every detail.
Sample Prayer:
Oh King Jesus, we stand in awe of your greatness. As we behold your majesty in creation, may we honor and glorify you with our lives.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it." - Psalm 24:1 I can continue to create content for each day.

Wednesday, January 10th, Day 5 -
The Grace of the King- "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." - Ephesians 2:8
Brief Story- I once met someone who felt unworthy of love and forgiveness. When they encountered God's grace, their life was transformed, and they found purpose in His gift.
Sample Prayer:
Gracious King, we thank you for the gift of salvation through your grace. Help us to extend that grace to others and to live in the freedom of your unmerited favor.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love." - Psalm 145:8 .

Thursday, January 11th, Day 6 -
The Wisdom of the King- "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." - James 1:5
Brief Story- In a moment of uncertainty, a friend sought God's wisdom and guidance. Through prayer, they found clarity and direction to overcome their challenges.
Sample Prayer:
King of wisdom, grant us discernment and clarity in our decisions. May your wisdom guide our steps and lead us on the path of righteousness.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding." - Proverbs 2:6.

Friday, January 12th, Day 7-
The Love of the King - "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8
Brief Story - A powerful example of sacrificial love was seen when a friend forgave someone who had deeply hurt them, reflecting the love of Christ in their actions.
Sample Prayer:
King of love, your sacrifice is the ultimate demonstration of love. Help us to love others with the same selflessness and compassion you have shown us.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness." - Jeremiah 31:3.

Saturday, January 13th, Day 8 -
The Power of the King - "For the kingdom of God does not consist in words but in power." - 1 Corinthians 4:20.
Brief Story - Witnessing a miraculous healing in a loved one, I saw the undeniable power of God at work, bringing hope and restoration in a time of great need.
Sample Prayer:
Mighty King Jesus, we acknowledge your power at work in our lives and in the world around us. May we experience your miraculous power and be bearers of that power to others.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours." - 1 Chronicles 29:11.

Sunday, January 14th, Day 9 -
The Sovereignty of the King - "Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all." - 1 Chronicles 29:11.
Brief Story- In the midst of uncertainty, I found peace in recognizing God's sovereignty. His control over all things brought confidence and reassurance during the storm.
Sample Prayer:
Sovereign King, we acknowledge your absolute rule and reign over all creation. Help us to trust in your sovereignty, knowing that you are in complete control.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all." - Psalm 103:19.

Monday, January 15th, Day 10 -
The Faithfulness of the King- "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations." - Deuteronomy 7:9.
Brief Story - Through seasons of change, I witnessed God's unwavering faithfulness, as He remained true to His promises and provided for every need in perfect timing.
Sample Prayer:
Faithful King, we praise you for your unchanging nature. Help us to remain faithful to you and to trust in your steadfast love in all circumstances.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." - Lamentations 3:22-23.

Tuesday, January 16th, Day 11 -
The Peace of the King - "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." - John 14:27.
Brief Story - During a time of turmoil, the peace of Christ filled my heart, bringing calm in the midst of chaos and reassuring me of His presence in every storm.
Sample Prayer:
Prince of Peace, we thank you for the peace that surpasses understanding. Grant us your peace in every circumstance and help us to be instruments of peace in the world.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you because he trusts in you." - Isaiah 26:3.

Wednesday, January 17th, Day 12 -
The Joy of the King- "You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore." - Psalm 16:11.
Brief Story - In moments of worship and gratitude, the joy of the Lord overflowed within me, illuminating each day with a radiant hope and unwavering delight.
Sample Prayer: King of Joy, we rejoice in your presence and the unmatched joy found in knowing you. Fill us with your joy and help us to share it with those around us.
Scripture Verse of Declaration: "The joy of the Lord is your strength." - Nehemiah 8:10.

New Theme " Spiritual Protection"

Here are the last days of biblical daily devotion on the theme of "Spiritual Protection" that will end on Friday, January 26, the first day of our 3 Days Ablaze Revival, or can go through the last day of revival on the 28th of January. Where we will end our time of prayer and fasting at the conclusion of the Friday night service. Expecting many testimonies of what God has done during your 21 days of prayer and fasting!!

Thursday, January 18th, Day 13-
Trusting in God's Protection
Brief Story- Daniel trusted in God's protection in the lion's den and experienced miraculous deliverance.
Sample Prayer:
"Lord, I trust in your protection and seek refuge in your unwavering care."
Scripture verse of Declaration: "I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" Psalm 91:2.

Friday, January 19th, Day 14 -
Shielded by God's Faithfulness
Brief Story- Noah and his family were shielded by God's faithfulness in the ark during the flood.
Sample Prayer:
"Father, thank you for your faithfulness that shields and protects me in all circumstances."
Scripture verse of Decoration: "But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." 2 Thessalonians 3:3.

Saturday, January 20th, Day 15 -
God's Armor of Protection
Brief Story- David faced Goliath wearing the armor of God's protection and emerged victorious.
Sample Prayer:
"Lord, clothe me with your spiritual armor to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy."
Scripture verse of Decoration: "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes." Ephesians 6:11.

Sunday, January 21st, Day 16 -
Divine Protection Through Troubled Waters
Brief Story- The Israelites crossed the Red Sea under God's protection, as the waters parted before them.
Sample Prayer:
"Father, lead me through troubled waters, protecting me with your mighty hand."
Scripture verse of Decoration: "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you, and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you." Isaiah 43:2.

Monday, January 22nd, Day 17 -
Refuge in God's Sheltering Wing
Brief Story- Jesus longed to gather Jerusalem as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, offering the ultimate protection.
Sample Prayer:
"Lord, shelter me under the shadow of your wings, where I find safety and peace."
Scripture verse of Decoration:"Let me dwell in your tent forever! Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings!" Psalm 61:4.

Tuesday, January 23rd, Day 18 -
God's Promise of Protection in the Storm
Brief Story- Jesus calmed the storm, revealing his power to protect and bring peace to his disciples.
Sample Prayer:
"Father, be my refuge in the storms of life, calming them with your unwavering presence."
Scripture verse of the Declaration: "The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him." Nahum 1:7.

Wednesday, January 24th, Day 19 -
Dwelling in the Secret Place of Protection
Brief Story- Moses dwelled in the presence of God on Mount Sinai, protected by the glory of the Lord.
Sample Prayer:
"Lord, lead me into the secret place of your presence, where I find ultimate protection."
Scripture verse in a Declaration: "For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock." Psalm 27:5.

Thursday, January 25th, Day 20 -
God's Angelic Protection
Brief Story- The angel of the Lord protected Daniel in the lion's den, shutting the mouths of the lions.
Sample Prayer: "Father, send your angels to guard and protect me in all my ways."
Scripture verse of Declaration:"The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them." Psalm 34:7.

Friday, January 26th, Day 21 - (Breaking fast at end of service )
Protection in Times of Persecution
Brief Story- Paul and Silas were protected by God's power and presence even in the midst of persecution.
Sample Prayer:
"Lord, grant me strength and protection in times of persecution and trial."
Scripture verse of Declaration: "But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." 2 Thessalonians 3:3.

Thank You for joining us !

Please share your testimonies of breakthroughs, healing’s, deliverance and restoration that God has done anytime during this time of prayer and fasting. At each of our campuses there are testimony cards in our lobby areas. Please fill those out and turn those into your campus pastor so that they will get to the church office. Expecting a great breakthrough and victory in your life for 2024.