If I'm struggling with sin, will God still honor my fast? - Day 20

Question of the Day:

If I have been struggling with sin or a particular sin, will God still honor my fast and hear my prayers?

The short answer is no, but with a very strong word of encouragement to go along with the “no.” Sin is a barrier that blocks the voice of God. It is true that God may not hear or respond to our prayers when there are sin barriers in our lives. Psalm 66:18 says, If I regard iniquity (sin) in my heart, the Lord will not hear. Isaiah says that sin blocks God’s hearing (Isaiah 59:1-2). But the good news is this: a fast will make you very aware of exactly where there is sin and what you need to do about it. There is always the offer of forgiveness where there is confession, repentance, and a sincere effort to correct the wrong.

Just like sin caused Adam and Eve to be banished from the garden of Eden, likewise sin separates us from the father. Here is the encouraging news. But it's not the end. Adam and Eve lived to have children.  After repentance you are still given a chance to live and be fruitful.

Just because one may be battling sin does not mean to avoid fasting.  Fasting brings clarity in all areas and it is a light that shines in the dark places where hidden or unknown sin live. Praise God for the cross and for His promises. For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).   If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins (1 John 1:9).

Fasting can help identify the root of the problem and help cleanse the mind, body, and soul.

What do you do if you're in sin but feel the need to fast?

 Short answer: FAST and follow the process below:

1. Repent.

Which means turn away from the sin. Don't return to the habits, behaviors, or thoughts that may cause you to fall into sin.

2. Forgive Yourself.

Don't beat yourself up with guilt or shame. Guilt is condemnation from the devil; A tactic used to hold you captive to your past. Once you repent, your sins are already forgiven. Don't hold on to what God has already moved past.

3. Give it all you got.

Start fasting, praying and living a life that is pleasing to the Lord. Pour your heart into your worship and prayer. Pray that God will help sustain you and remove unhealthy desires that leads to sin. Give him your everything and do not hold back.

Let God shower you with his love and grace. Whatever you may be battling, give it to God and he will give you victory.

For more scripture on this, read James chapter 1.

Let’s talk.

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