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.” Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. Acts 13:2-4 (ESV)
Worshiping the Lord and fasting
When I think of fasting, I always think of fasting and praying. This story in scripture pairs up worshiping the Lord and fasting.
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.” Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.
So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. Acts 13:2-4 (ESV)
I think that is so cool! Sometimes when you are fasting, it is important to spend time just worshiping the Lord and celebrating who He is and all He has done.
What happens when we worship and fast?
Notice what happens when this group of Christians in Acts is worshiping the Lord and fasting. The Holy Spirit speaks and gives them specific directions.
There are so many times when I am longing for direction. I want to know which choice God wants me to make or which direction to go. I pray and pray.
Prayer is good, but in this instance, it took the people of God worshiping the Lord and fasting.
Trusting in the One who knows the way
God is the only one who can see our future. He knows the best direction for our lives. When we choose to fast, we are choosing to let go of our desires in favor of His. When we worship, we are saying to God, “I know how powerful and wise You are, and I trust You with my life.”
Open your ears
When we are worshiping the Lord and fasting, we are opening our spiritual ears to hear the voice of the Holy Spirit giving us direction for our lives.
The opposite choice
The opposite of worshiping the Lord and fasting is worry. When we choose to worry about the decision process, we are saying, “God, I don’t think I can trust You with this.” We are closing our spiritual ears to the words of the Holy Spirit.
Worship and fast, listen and act
When making decisions, worship and fast. Then, listen and act on the instruction of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit still speaks and longs to direct us on the right path. Let’s give Him a chance today!
Action Step:
Our Focus today is FASTING!
Fasting: giving up or skipping something in favor of spending time with God. Traditionally, not eating, but can be a fast from social media, television, books, or certain types of food or drink.
During the time you are fasting today, turn on some worship music or lift your heart to the Lord. Trust in Him and listen for the instruction of the Holy Spirit.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5 (NKJV)
Prayer:
Dear God, You are all-powerful. You have all knowledge. We trust in You and You alone. We exalt You and lift Your name high! You are worthy of our worship. Direct our paths and help us to hear Your voice. In Jesus’ name, amen.
