As I began to pray about how to truly prepare for my trip to Zim (shortened version of Zimbabwe), the Lord laid several things on my heart. To begin with, having been in ministry I know the importance of spiritually preparing yourself for intense times of ministry such as a retreat, a missions trip, a concert, etc. I knew that I would need to get my heart and mind completely and totally focused 100% on Christ and this trip. Next I knew that emotionally I would need to prepare myself for seperation anxiety, heartbreak, etc. Finally, I knew that physically I would need to be in the best possible condition that I could be in.
The question came as to how could I best prepare for this? I thought of going away for a time like the Jesus did when he spent 40 days in the wilderness but I realized that probably wasn't the best idea or realistic. I considered just reading a book of the Bible through but somehow didn't seem quite right. I prayed about going on daily "prayer walks" around the lake near our home - not a bad option but just didn't seem to be what the Lord was calling me to do.
Finally, it hit me, I needed to fast. Christ led by example in fasting and it is mentioned several times in the Word that we are to fast. However, I felt led that whatever I did I needed to do it for the month leading up to my trip meaning that I would begin on Aug 12. Fasting from food didn't really seem like the wisest thing to do physically so I just asked the Lord to lead me and to show me what I needed to do.
The answer was simple: eat your normal meals but drink only water for the 30 days before you leave. WHAT?!!! Are you kidding me God? Can't I just give up like candy bars or ice cream or something like that? If you know me, you know that I am hooked on Coke/Dr. Pepper like most people are hooked on coffee! Okay - the day doesn't go good without that little boost of caffine! Yet - the more I prayed the stronger I felt that this was the way to go - I needed to drink only water for the month before the trip.
I share this with you not to brag or say look at me but rather to tell you that I know it will be a struggle and I would ask you to pray with me in this regard. I am confident that through this fast, the Lord will use it as a time for me to prepare spiritually, physically, and emotionally and even mentally for the trip. Tomorrow is Aug 12 and I will begin this journey...my prayer is to be committed and follow through for the 30 days unless released by the Lord to do otherwise.
Acts 13:2 Says:"While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart Barnabus and Saul for the work to which I have called.'" You see, it was through their time of fasting that God gave specific instructions to the leaders of the church. There are many times that I want to hear God and yet I don't and I think it is because I need to be more intentional about my worship and my fasting.
I like to challenge those I share with at times, so today's challenge is: What is God challenging YOU to do in order to prepare for service for Him?
1 comment:
Today is day two of only drinking water...last night was TOUGH! I had a MAJOR headache and no medicine to take for it. I was awake and desperate most of the night but morning came, medicine was bought and the Lord was faithful to get me through it. I still have a headache although not near as intense but I am confident that He who has led me to this, will indeed help me through it!
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