Prayer is powerful, but there are moments in Scripture where prayer alone wasn’t enough. Some battles required more. That “more” was fasting. When combined with prayer, fasting doesn’t just add intensity—it adds breakthrough. It silences the flesh so the spirit can rise. It opens doors to clarity, power, and victory that otherwise remain shut.

Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“But this kind never comes out except by prayer and fasting.” — Matthew 17:21

Fasting is often misunderstood. It’s not about starving yourself, punishing your body, or earning God’s attention. Fasting is about making space for God by denying the flesh. When you fast, you remove something physical in order to prioritize the spiritual.

Throughout Scripture, fasting was connected to great moves of God. Moses fasted on the mountain as he received the Law. Esther called her people to fast before approaching the king, and deliverance came. Jesus Himself fasted forty days before beginning His ministry.

When you fast, your hunger becomes a constant reminder to pray. Your dependence shifts from physical bread to the Bread of Life. And something remarkable happens—your prayers gain sharper focus, your discernment becomes clearer, and your spirit is strengthened against temptation.

Fasting also tears down spiritual strongholds. There are situations in your life—bondages, addictions, or obstacles—that will not break through ordinary effort. Prayer and fasting together release extraordinary power. That’s why Jesus told His disciples that some battles require both.

Don’t let fasting intimidate you. It doesn’t always mean going forty days without food. It could mean skipping one meal to seek God, fasting for a day, or even laying aside distractions like social media or entertainment to focus on Him. The point isn’t how long you fast—it’s how surrendered you are in the process.

When prayer and fasting combine, chains break, clarity comes, and God’s power is revealed in fresh ways.

Question of the Day:What area of your life feels like it needs breakthrough that ordinary prayer hasn’t yet touched?

Mini Call to Action:Choose one way to fast this week—whether food, media, or something else—and dedicate that time to prayer.

Prayer:Lord, teach me the discipline of fasting. Help me deny the flesh so my spirit can grow stronger. Use my sacrifice to break chains, open doors, and bring me closer to You.

Let’s Get To Work!Some victories come only through prayer and fasting. Step into it, and watch God move.

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