In this week’s sermon, Pastor Jacob Michalski explores the spiritual practice of voluntarily abstaining from food as a means of deepening one’s relationship with God. Drawing from biblical context, he explains that fasting is not about performance or manipulating God, but rather about creating intentional moments of presence and communion with the divine. He highlights three key reasons for fasting: cultivating God’s presence, remembrance of spiritual truths, and personal spiritual formation. Pastor Jacob encourages us to approach fasting as an invitation to a deeper spiritual life, while emphasizing the importance of individual health considerations and practicing fasting humbly and privately. He suggests starting small, such as skipping a single meal, and viewing fasting as a way to intensify spiritual dependence, enhance prayer, and recognize that spiritual needs are more fundamental than physical desires.
Reflection Questions
- What were your previous experiences with fasting? What emotions or thoughts are you bringing in to this passage from those previous experiences?
- In what ways can fasting enhance your prayer life, according to this sermon? How does understanding the historical context of fasting enhance your view?
- What are the obstacles that are keeping you from fasting? What’s one step you can take this week to incorporate fasting?
- How can you shift your mindset about fasting from a chore to an opportunity for deeper communion with God?
- How might fasting become a way for you to connect with God during challenging times in your life?
