Today many women begin a 2 day fast for marriage; some are beginning a one day fast today or tomorrow. I believe that God is delighting in our hearts as we do battle not only for our personal benefits but for “marriage” in general.
I can not do this text on fasting justice in this space….but here are a FEW thoughts. {G} This is an example of Israel’s fasting – the good and the ugly. There is much we can learn from their example. Take joy Ladies, in the fact that we serve a God who carries our burdens and is in the business of restoration. May you see this time as the start of repairing breaches in the institution of marriage and in our culture’s value of marriage.
Is. 58:1-5 – Israel had fasted and God had not heard. Why? They were fasting for “their desire” (v3), they fasted with “contention and strife” (v4) they were fasting to be noticed and congratulated by men (vs. 5). God is about HEART.
Is 58:6 – 7 – God’s Chosen Fast
Fast to:
Loose the bonds of wickedness (vs. 6)
Undo heavy burdens (bonds of the yoke, stop exploiting employees)(6)
Let the oppressed go free (vs. 6)
Break every yoke (cancel debts) (vs. 6)
OUR HEARTS ARE CHANGED (vs. 7)
Bless the poor and homeless rather than exploit them
Is 58:8-12 - Results from God’s Chosen Fast:
Revelation (vs. 8)
Healing and personal restoration, Recovery (vs. 8.11)
Righteousness (vs. 8)
Protection (vs. 8) the glory of the Lord be your rear guard
Guidance (vs. 9,11)
Spiritual strength (vs. 9-11)
Satisfy our new desires, even in scorched places (vs 11)
Rebuild the ancient ruins (vs 12)
Raise Up old foundations (vs. 12)
Be called “Repairer of the Breach” (vs. 12)
“Restorer of the Streets” (vs. 12)
