Pag-Aayuno 2018 ✍️

Fasting is a spiritual discipline for those who walk with Christ. Throughout Scripture, fasting is mentioned repeatedly, not as a mere suggestion, but as a practice woven into the life of a believer.

We fast as an act of humility, declaring that God holds the highest place in our lives. Through prayer and fasting, we learn self-control by willingly setting aside things we think we cannot live without, only to discover that what we truly need most. is God. Fasting helps realign our hearts and priorities with His will, and as we pray and fast, we place our full trust and dependence in Him alone.

While some people choose to fast from things like social media, gadgets, television, or streaming platforms, not everyone has access to these comforts. Those living in remote areas, for example, may not have technology to set aside. This leads us to reflect more deeply: What is the greatest sacrifice we can offer as we seek to draw closer to God?

Food is something all people desire, whether rich or poor, young or old. Because food and water are basic necessities of life, choosing to surrender them through fasting carries deep spiritual meaning. In doing so, we follow the example of Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–11), reminding us that true life and strength come not from bread alone, but from God.

It was once again our church’s mid-year season of prayer and fasting. Knowing that my body is no longer the same as it was in my twenties or thirties, I felt hesitant to join the corporate fast. Age-related changes have begun to surface, including moments of lightheadedness, and I wondered how much more difficult it would be if I chose not to eat.

Shame on me. This way of thinking revealed how little faith I had. Entertaining so many “what-ifs” showed that I was still relying on myself, on my own strength and abilities, instead of fully trusting God. I felt ashamed before Him, realizing that while I often encourage others to be strong in the Lord, I myself was wrestling with doubt about whether to fast.

In time, I chose to act in faith. I began by skipping dinner, giving up coffee, which is my addiction, and refraining from watching television.

I longed to understand God’s will for my life and to discover the blessings He has in store for me. I knew I could never experience these if I let my fears and anxieties hold me back from fasting. So I chose to set aside my doubts, quiet my negative thoughts, and attend the church in person with my husband and children, fully committing to our time of corporate prayer and fasting.

Some mornings at breakfast, I admit, my eyes lingered on the choco mousse cake in the fridge, and my stomach grumbled in protest. Even when we returned home from church, I longed for a comforting cup of coffee. Yet in those moments, I felt God’s quiet strength guiding me. By His grace, I was able to resist giving in to my cravings, and I realized that true satisfaction comes not from food or comfort, but from trusting Him and surrendering my desires to His care.

When the six days of fasting finally came to an end, I could only say, “Wow!” It was amazing to see how God faithfully sustained me throughout the entire period. In a world that often deceives us into believing that food, possessions, or comfort are what truly keep us alive, fasting reminds us to reject those lies and embrace the truth: our life depends on God and God alone. When we place our full trust in Him, He provides for all our needs, and so much more. He truly sustains us. Our Jehovah Jireh...how faithful and glorious He is!☝️

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