Several weeks ago Pastor Greg challenged our church members to individually pray with the guidance of a Prayer Guide. Some of you might have noticed that there was a section on fasting. This will be my third week having one day of fasting and prayer, only drinking water. I have chosen Wednesday as my full day of fasting because it seems like the Baptist Holy Day. Wednesdays are special in the Baptist church because the evening church activities help us spiritually through the remainder of the week. Skipping one day from eating was not as difficult as I had anticipated. On my fasting day, whenever tempted about eating, I quickly remind myself that I should be in prayer. Naturally, this occurs many times on my fasting days. The skipped breakfast at home gives me a little more free time in the morning. I sit in a quiet room and meditate on spiritual things during my lunch break at work. I go to church to help with AWANAs after work and skip my evening meal. During the time I would normally be eating, I sometimes think about the previous Sunday sermons or Bible study topics. Other times I work on Bible studies. The spiritual fast is not for loosing physical nourishment to reduce weight, but for increasing in spiritual nourishment to grow character. I recommend every one reading this column start a regular fasting routine. You will feel better physically and spiritually.
Pastor Barry
