Sun, Jan 6, 2008
Fasting that Pleases God
9 Characteristics identified here in the text:
1. Freedom in Christ (v6). Loose the bonds of wickedness and break the yokes.
2. Compassion (v7). Become "other focused". Think about someone else for a change. Pray about the nations, our community.
3. Guidance (v8). The light refers to God's direction. We are changed and able to hear God clearer.
4. Healing (v8). Not only physical healing will take place but spiritual and emotional healing can occur - power of a new life.
5. Righteousness (v8). God's righteousness for the months ahead. Our relationship with the Lord for the year "goes before us".
6. Glory (v8). God's glory follows us; we are protected with his righteousness before us and his glory behind us.
7. Answered Prayer (v9). We shall call and God will answer.
8. Awareness of God's Presence (v9). We cry out to him and He says "Here I am". We are able to connect to that presence.
9. Happiness (v14). Then you will delight yourself in the Lord. Our joy is renewed.
v10-13:
more on guidance
give strength to our bones
rebuilding of self
rebuilding of relationships
Rest
Put God First
1. Freedom in Christ (v6). Loose the bonds of wickedness and break the yokes.
2. Compassion (v7). Become "other focused". Think about someone else for a change. Pray about the nations, our community.
3. Guidance (v8). The light refers to God's direction. We are changed and able to hear God clearer.
4. Healing (v8). Not only physical healing will take place but spiritual and emotional healing can occur - power of a new life.
5. Righteousness (v8). God's righteousness for the months ahead. Our relationship with the Lord for the year "goes before us".
6. Glory (v8). God's glory follows us; we are protected with his righteousness before us and his glory behind us.
7. Answered Prayer (v9). We shall call and God will answer.
8. Awareness of God's Presence (v9). We cry out to him and He says "Here I am". We are able to connect to that presence.
9. Happiness (v14). Then you will delight yourself in the Lord. Our joy is renewed.
v10-13:
more on guidance
give strength to our bones
rebuilding of self
rebuilding of relationships
Rest
Put God First