Building (U)s | Week 1 | Pastor Ben Pierce

Building (U)s: Embracing Spiritual Growth Through Prayer and Fasting

In this inspiring message from Pastor Ben Pierce, we explore the transformative power of prayer and fasting to build our spiritual lives. This new series, ‘Building Us,’ invites us to reflect on our personal growth and connection with God as we embark on a 14-day journey of spiritual discipline.

Introduction to the Series

‘Building Us,’ series focuses on personal and communal spiritual growth. It is a journey that begins with self-reflection and an openness to God’s transformative power. As we embark on this 14-day prayer and fasting period, we aim to deepen our relationship with God and each other. This is not just about rituals; it’s about building a foundation for a thriving spiritual life.

Introduction to the Series

The Importance of Prayer and Fasting

Prayer and fasting are vital spiritual disciplines that help us connect with God on a deeper level. They provide clarity and strength, allowing us to focus on God rather than the distractions of daily life. Fasting, in particular, acts as a detox for our spirits, enabling us to hear God’s voice more clearly.

  • Prayer: A direct line of communication with God, allowing us to express our thoughts, needs, and gratitude.
  • Fasting: A physical act that complements prayer, enhancing our spiritual experience and commitment to God.
The Importance of Prayer and Fasting

Building People, Not Just Buildings

As we engage in this series, it’s essential to remember our focus: building people. While buildings serve as physical spaces for worship, they are secondary to the spiritual growth of individuals. Discipleship and community are at the heart of our mission. When we invest in people, we lay the groundwork for a vibrant church community.

The Role of Communication in Building Relationships

Effective communication is crucial in any relationship, including our relationship with God. Prayer serves as the primary means of communication with Him. Just as we wouldn’t neglect our friendships, we must prioritize our prayer life to foster a deeper intimacy with God.

  • Prayer allows us to share our hearts with God.
  • It invites us to listen and receive guidance.
  • Regular communication strengthens our faith and confidence in His promises.
Building People, Not Just Buildings

Overcoming the Last Resort Mentality

Many people treat prayer as a last resort, turning to God only when all else fails. This mindset can hinder our spiritual growth. Instead, we should approach prayer as our first response to life’s challenges. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will and open ourselves to His guidance from the beginning.

Understanding the Spiritual Benefits of Fasting

Fasting is not merely about abstaining from food; it is a spiritual discipline that yields numerous benefits. It helps us to detoxify our bodies, clear our minds, and sharpen our spiritual focus. During fasting, we create space for God to work in our lives, enhancing our spiritual clarity and emotional well-being.

  • Increased awareness of God’s presence.
  • Heightened sensitivity to spiritual matters.
  • Improved mental clarity and focus.
Overcoming the Last Resort Mentality

Examples of Fasting in the Bible

The Bible is filled with examples of individuals who fasted for various reasons, showcasing the power and significance of this practice. From Moses receiving the Ten Commandments to Jesus preparing for His ministry, fasting has played a crucial role in many biblical narratives.

  1. Moses: Fasted for 40 days to receive God’s commandments.
  2. Esther: Fasted for the safety of her people.
  3. Jesus: Fasted before beginning His public ministry.
Examples of Fasting in the Bible

Types of Fasts and Their Significance

Fasting comes in various forms, each with its unique significance and purpose. Understanding the different types of fasts can help you choose the one that aligns best with your spiritual goals.

  • Absolute Fast: This involves abstaining from all food and drink for a short period. It’s often used for urgent matters where deep spiritual focus is required.
  • Partial Fast: In this type, certain foods are restricted, such as a Daniel Fast, which includes only fruits, vegetables, and water. This fast encourages a deeper reliance on God while still allowing some nourishment.
  • Intermittent Fast: This involves cycles of eating and fasting, such as fasting from dawn to dusk. It’s a practical approach for those who want to incorporate fasting into their daily routine without complete abstinence.
  • Corporate Fast: A communal fast where a group, such as a church, fasts together for a shared purpose. This fosters unity and collective spiritual growth.

Each fast serves to draw you closer to God, allowing for introspection and growth in your spiritual journey. Choosing the right type of fast can enhance your experience and deepen your relationship with God.

Types of Fasts and Their Significance

David: A Model for Prayer and Fasting

David exemplifies the profound connection between prayer and fasting. His life demonstrates that even amidst struggles, one can still be a man after God’s own heart.’ His commitment to these spiritual practices was a key aspect of his relationship with God.

David often turned to prayer and fasting during pivotal moments, seeking guidance and strength. In Psalm 42, he illustrates his thirst for God, comparing it to a deer panting for water. This vivid imagery highlights the desperation and urgency to connect with the Divine.

Principles of David’s Life

David’s life teaches us several key principles regarding prayer and fasting:

  • Desperation for God: Just as the deer longs for water, we should approach God with a deep yearning in our hearts.
  • Intentionality: Fasting should be a purposeful act, inviting God into our lives and circumstances.
  • Openness to Transformation: David’s example shows that through prayer and fasting, we can experience profound spiritual transformation.
David: A Model for Prayer and Fasting

Building Intimacy Through Invitation

Engaging in prayer and fasting is fundamentally an invitation to God to enter our lives more fully. This invitation fosters intimacy, allowing us to connect with Him on a deeper level. By depriving ourselves of physical sustenance, we create space for spiritual nourishment.

As we set aside distractions and focus on prayer, we invite God into our hearts, paving the way for personal transformation. This process not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also cultivates a greater awareness of His presence in our lives.

Creating a Sacred Space

To deepen this intimacy, consider establishing a sacred space for your prayer and fasting practice. This could be a quiet corner in your home, a peaceful outdoor setting, or a designated time in your daily routine. By creating an environment conducive to prayer, you can enhance your ability to connect with God.

Use this space to reflect, pray, and meditate on His word. Allow it to be a sanctuary where you meet God and experience His love and guidance.

Building Intimacy Through Invitation

Stability Through Scripture

Fasting is not only about abstaining from food; it also involves feasting on the word of God. David recognized that immersing himself in Scripture during fasting brought stability to his life.

When we consume God’s word, we anchor ourselves amidst the instability of life. The teachings of the Bible provide guidance, wisdom, and clarity, equipping us to navigate challenges with confidence.

The Role of Scripture in Fasting

During fasting, dedicate time to read and meditate on Scripture. This practice transforms your fast into a holistic spiritual experience, where both physical abstinence and spiritual nourishment coalesce.

  • Clarity: Engaging with Scripture during fasting illuminates the path forward, offering insight and perspective.
  • Wisdom: The teachings of the Bible provide wisdom that guides our decisions and actions.
  • Strength: Scripture serves as a source of strength, reminding us of God’s promises and faithfulness in our lives.
Stability Through Scripture

Consistency Leading to Clarity

Consistency in prayer and fasting is crucial for achieving clarity in our spiritual lives. Just as David prayed three times a day, establishing a routine can help us maintain focus and commitment.

As we consistently engage in prayer and fasting, we create a rhythm that fosters spiritual growth. This rhythm allows us to hear God’s voice more clearly, leading to a greater understanding of His will for our lives.

Building a Routine

Consider setting specific times for prayer and fasting. This could be during meals, at the beginning or end of the day, or at set intervals throughout the day. Establishing a routine helps to form habits that encourage spiritual discipline and clarity.

As you commit to this consistency, expect to see God’s clarity emerge in your life. You will find that answers to your prayers become more apparent, and your relationship with God deepens.

Consistency Leading to Clarity

The Power of Asking in Prayer

Prayer is inherently powerful, especially when combined with fasting. When we ask God for help, guidance, or strength, we position ourselves to receive His blessings and intervention in our lives.

David frequently sought God’s assistance through prayer, acknowledging his need for divine support. This act of asking not only shows humility but also reflects trust in God’s ability to respond.

Effective Prayer

To enhance the effectiveness of your prayers during fasting, focus on the following:

  • Specificity: Be specific in your requests, articulating your needs and desires clearly.
  • Faith: Approach God with faith, believing that He hears and answers your prayers.
  • Alignment: Ensure your requests align with God’s will, seeking His guidance and wisdom.
The Power of Asking in Prayer

Conclusion and Call to Action

As we embark on this journey of prayer and fasting, let us embrace the opportunity to deepen our intimacy with God, build stability through His word, and seek clarity in our lives. Just as David exemplified, we can cultivate a heart after God’s own through these spiritual disciplines.

I encourage you to engage fully in the upcoming weeks. Choose a fast that resonates with you, set aside time for prayer, and immerse yourself in Scripture. Let this season be a transformative experience that brings you closer to God and reveals His purpose for your life.

Are you ready to take this step? Join us in this fasting and prayer journey, and watch God work in remarkable ways in your life.