Day 21: Fasting as Rest

How does fasting relate to God's pattern of rest? It's Day 21. The last day of our fast! If you made it this far, I'm super proud of you. You have done something that few people are willing to do. Today, we look at frequently asked questions about fasting in the final chapters of "A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God's Favor" by Ted Shuttlesworth, Jr. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  As we come to the end of this season of fasting, we thank You for loving providing this discipline for our benefit. Help us to not just understand the physical benefits but to embrace the spiritual renewal it offers. We recognize that our bodies are the temple of Holy Spirit. We are not our own, but have been purchased with an exceedingly precious price. Help us to used the discipline of fasting as a tool to cleanse and rejuvenate ourselves, inside and out. May our furture journeys through fasting draw us ever closer to You, deepening our faith and heightening our awareness of Your presence in our lives. Strengthen our bodies and our spirits, and hep us to persevere, especially when faced with challenges or temptations. When we fast, let it be with pure intentions, seeking not just the physical detoxification but a deeper, spiritual cleansing that aligns us more closely with Your will. Father, I speak a special blessing over those who have been traveling with me on this path of fasting. Continue to give them revelation and clarity. I speak healing over their bodies and strength and renewal over their relationships with others and especially with you. May the insights we've gained over the past weeks not just linger in our minds, but manifest in our lives as we strive to live in a way that honors You. Thank You for the nourishment of Your Word and this special time spent in Your Presence.  In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Resources mentioned in today's Podcast Episode: A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God's Favor by Ted Shuttlesworth, Jr. https://amzn.to/3OqpXrB - #CommissionsEarned God's Chosen Fast (FaithEssentials) by Arthur Wallis https://amzn.to/49mWbMk - #CommissionsEarned Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #TedShuttlesworth #completeguidetobiblicalfasting #GodsChosenFast #ArthurWallis

What if I told you the Daniel Fast isn't really a fast at all? That's one of the controversial topics we'll explore in today's episode. It's Day 20 of our 21 day fast. Today, we are going to look at Chapters 6-9 of "A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God's Favor" by Ted Shuttlesworth, Jr. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  We come before You with hearts full of gratitude, lifting our voices in praise and thanksgiving for all that You have done. We thank You for Your faithfulness, Your unending love, and the countless blessings You have poured into our lives. We are deeply grateful for the promises in Your Word, which are yes and amen in Christ Jesus. Thank You for being our rock, our fortress, and our deliverer in times of need. Father, we are in awe of Your Word and the power it holds. We remind ourselves and proclaim that You watch over Your Word to perform it. Your Word does not return to You void but accomplishes the purpose for which You sent it. We stand on Your promises of health. You are our healer. We claim the promise of a long and satisfying life, knowing You have numbered our days in Your book. We believe in Your Word that says blessings shall follow us and overtake us. We are blessed to be a blessing, and in Your generosity, we find our provision. We declare that we shall not want or be in lack, for You are our Shepherd, and in You, we have everything we need. Father, we hold onto the promise of peace that passes all understanding, which guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. We thank You for the wisdom You give abundantly to those who ask without finding fault. You are the source of all wisdom and understanding. Father, we praise You for what You are going to do in our lives. We look forward with anticipation to the fulfillment of Your promises, trusting in Your timing and Your perfect will. We thank You in advance for the miracles, breakthroughs, and testimonies that are on their way. All glory, honor, and praise be to You, now and forever. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen. ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Resource mentioned in today's Podcast Episode: A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God's Favor by Ted Shuttlesworth, Jr. https://amzn.to/3OqpXrB - #CommissionsEarned Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #TedShuttlesworth #completeguidetobiblicalfasting #DanielFast

Is Fasting Necessary for New Testament Believers? That's one of the questions we'll explore in today's episode. It's Day 19 of our 21 day fast. Today, we are going to look at Chapters 2-5 of "A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God's Favor"  by Ted Shuttlesworth, Jr. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  As we near the end of our fast, we continue to seek You diligently. Teach us the true essence of self-denial. Help us use this period of fasting to cleanse ourselves from what is dishonorable, to be used as vessels, set apart and ready for every good work. Give us the strength to control our fleshly desires and to focus our hearts and minds on You. As we learn about the significance of fasting, guide us to understand its true biblical meaning. May our fasting not just be an act of abstaining from food, but a profound commitment to deepening our relationship with You. Renew our sensitivity to Your voice and lead us to a greater understanding of Your love and purpose for our lives. Father, as we reflect on the teachings of Jesus and the Apostle Paul, inspire us to follow their examples in prayer and fasting. May these acts of devotion not be merely ritualistic, but pathways to experiencing Your power and presence more fully in our lives. For those who are new to fasting, I pray for their courage to start small, and the perseverance to grow in this discipline. Transform our hunger for food into a hunger for righteousness. Give us a deeper revelation of Your word and Your ways. Lead us to live lives that honor You, lives of dedication, obedience, and spiritual empowerment. We thank You for Your endless grace and for the teachings that draw us closer to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen] ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Resource mentioned in today's Podcast Episode: A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God's Favor by Ted Shuttlesworth, Jr. https://amzn.to/3OqpXrB - #CommissionsEarned Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #TedShuttlesworth #completeguidetobiblicalfasting 

Fasting isn't just about skipping meals. Discover the unexpected secrets and deeper purposes of fasting and how it can transform your life. It's Day 18 of our 21 day fast. Today, we are going to look at another book on fasting, by Ted Shuttlesworth, Jr. "A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God's Favor". DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  We embrace this time of fasting as an act of pure obedience. As we deny our physical needs, help us to focus more intently on You, deepening our spiritual connection and understanding of Your will. We ask for strength and discipline during this fast, recognizing it as a powerful tool to humble ourselves. May this time of fasting be a testament to our dedication to You and our desire to emulate Christ in every aspect of our lives. Guide us in using this period to worship You wholeheartedly, and to prepare ourselves for the work You have called us to. As we commit to this fast, to strengthen not only our bodies but also our spirits, aligning our desires with Your holy purpose. Father, I lift up our community and those participating in this fast. May we support and encourage each other, growing together in faith and love. Let this time be a turning point in our lives, where we come to know You more deeply and serve You more faithfully. May this be a time of renewal, growth, and profound spiritual awakening. We commit this fast, our lives, and all that we do, to You. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen. ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Resources mentioned in today's Podcast Episode: A Complete Guide to Biblical Fasting: Master the Habit that Provokes God's Favor by Ted Shuttlesworth, Jr. https://amzn.to/3OqpXrB - #CommissionsEarned Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek -- https://amzn.to/48VX5je - #CommissionsEarned OR, listen to the audiobook free: https://amzn.to/3Oq0uhS - #CommissionsEarned Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #ElmerTowns #fastingforspiritualbreakthrough #biblicalfasts

From a Widow's sacrifice to Esther's courage, let's explore how fasting can transform our spiritual lives. It's Day 17 of our 21 day fast. Today, we are going to review chapters 6-10 of "Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough: A Practical Guide to Nine Biblical Fasts" by Elmer L. Towns. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  We approach Your throne with hearts eager to journey through the discipline of spiritual fasting, as we seek to deepen our connection with You. For those striving to cultivate a spirit of compassion and self-sacrifice, guide them and strengthen them. Give them a spirit of generosity and willingness to share, reflecting Your boundless love in action and sacrifice. For those in search of clarity and wisdom in decision-making, enlighten their minds and hearts. Help them to discern Your will amidst life's crossroads, trusting in Your guidance to lead them down the right path. Father, for those in need of healing and rejuvenation, both of body and spirit, may their bodies use this time to repair and regenerate the way You designed them to do. As they temporarily set aside earthly indulgences, may this act of fasting renew their strength and bring the healing You have already provided to every cell and fiber of their bodies. For those in pursuit of boldness in their witnessing and testimony, empower them to live lives that shine Your light into the world. May this period of fasting be a testament to their devotion, inspiring them to lead lives that glorify You in every word and deed. Father, for those going through a time of adversity, may they find refuge in Your protective embrace. Give them the courage and fortitude to face challenges with unwavering faith, knowing that Your presence is their shield and strength. Through this spiritual practice of fasting, may each of us grow in our spiritual journey, drawing nearer to You and the abundant life You have provided. Strengthen our resolve and fill us with a deeper understanding of Your love and purpose for our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Fasting Resources: Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough: A Practical Guide to Nine Biblical Fasts -- https://amzn.to/3OnxaZg - #CommissionsEarned Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship With God -- https://amzn.to/3ucsTkC - #CommissionsEarned OR, listen to the audiobook free: https://amzn.to/4b4216Y - #CommissionsEarned Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #ElmerTowns #fastingforspiritualbreakthrough #biblicalfasts

Imagine a spiritual practice so powerful that it can transform your relationship with God, yourself, and the world. That's what we're uncovering today, as we continue our study of biblical fasting. It's Day 16 of our 21 day fast. Today, I'm going to review the first 5 chapters of "Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough: A Practical Guide to Nine Biblical Fasts" by Elmer L. Towns. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  You are our Creator, Provider and Sustainer. Thank You for the wisdom and insights drawn from the depths of Your Word, the guidance of Your Spirit, and the writings of Elmer Towns. Father, bless each listener on their spiritual journey. May the methods of fasting we have explored today deepen our understanding of the transformative power of prayer and fasting. May we use the spiritual discipline of fasting as a way to draw ever closer to You. Give us the strength, discipline and desire to embrace fasting as a means of deepening our faith, breaking the bonds of personal struggle, and reviving our lives and our communities. May we be inspired to seek You with greater fervor, to serve others with more compassion, and to live our lives as a reflection of Your grace and mercy. Father, I pray for those who are beginning or continuing their fasting journey. May they find clarity, strength, and a deeper connection with You. Let their fasting be a genuine expression of their faith, a humble submission to Your will, and a powerful tool for spiritual breakthrough. May Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. In the name of Jesus, we pray.  Amen ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Fasting Resources: Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough: A Practical Guide to Nine Biblical Fasts -- https://amzn.to/3OnxaZg - #CommissionsEarned Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship With God -- https://amzn.to/3ucsTkC - #CommissionsEarned OR, listen to the audiobook free: https://amzn.to/4b4216Y - #CommissionsEarned Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #ElmerTowns #fastingforspiritualbreakthrough #biblicalfasts

Before Jesus started his earthly ministry, he fasted for 40 days in the wilderness. Could fasting be the key to preparing yourself for a life-changing mission? Today, we are going to look at fasting in the New Testament. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  We come before You, seeking the wisdom and strength that only Your Spirit can provide. As Jesus retreated into the wilderness, fasting and communing with You, we too seek to draw nearer to You through fasting and prayer. In this season of intentional sacrifice, we seek the live and spirit in every word that comes from Your mouth. Your Word is our answer, Your truth our shield. As Jesus did, we will defeat the enemy with the power of Your Word, as we stand firm in our faith, grounded in Your promises. As we buffet our bodies and seek Your face, guide us in making decisions that align with Your will. Whether we are preparing for new beginnings, facing crossroads, or consecrating our lives for Kingdom work, let this time of fasting be a spiritual journey that clarifies Your calling and deepens our reliance on You. May our fasting not just be an act of self-denial, but a profound engagement with Holy Spirit, leading us to greater works and deeper understanding. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen. ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD Back Roller mentioned: https://amzn.to/3O9XWEJ #commissionsearned  Fasting Resource: Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship With God by Jentezen Franklin -- https://amzn.to/4b2vUVq - #CommissionsEarned OR, listen to the audiobook free: https://amzn.to/4b4216Y - #CommissionsEarned #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #forgiveness #favor #revelationknowledge

Could the spiritual discipline of fasting be your answer to the losses life has dealt you? Discover how fasting might hold the key to reclaiming what the 'locusts' have eaten. It's Day 14 of our 21 day fast. We have one more week to go! Today, we're going to explore Fasting for Restoration. We'll look at Joel 1 and 2. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  I lift up to you those who are in the midst of struggles, whose hearts heavy with the weight of losses. I speak Your strength over those who are burdened by the ravages of the enemy. In our powerlessness, Father, we turn to You with fasting. There is nothing we can do in the natural to turn this around; it is only in fully surrendering to You that can we find true restoration. So Father, we embrace the call to return to You with our entire being; not with just an outward display of mourning, but a sincere, heart-deep repentance and reliance on You and You alone as our Source, our Provider, our Protector, and our Redeemer. We claim Your promise of restoration – an abundance of provision and victory over adversity. We grab hold of that promise, clinging to it and refusing to budge. With faith, we praise You in advance for this renewal, trusting in Your unshakeable promises. Father, thank you for restoring even the years the locusts have eaten. Thank You for the gift of Holy Spirit living in us, reviving us, bringing us fully alive in Christ Jesus. Thank You for Your faithfulness. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen. ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD Back Roller mentioned: https://amzn.to/3O9XWEJ #commissionsearned  Fasting Resource: Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship With God by Jentezen Franklin -- https://amzn.to/4b2vUVq - #CommissionsEarned OR, listen to the audiobook free: https://amzn.to/4b4216Y - #CommissionsEarned #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #forgiveness #favor #revelationknowledge

Have you ever wondered if fasting could unlock the doors to deeper revelation knowledge of God's Word? It's Day 13 of our 21 day fast. Today, we're going to explore Fasting for Revelation Knowledge. We'll look at Daniel's fast in Daniel 9. And we'll also look at some instruction from Jesus on the proper way to fast, in Matthew 6. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  In humble reverence, I approach Your throne of grace, seeking the precious gift of revelation knowledge in Your Word. Open my heart and mind to truly comprehend the depth of Your Word. I long to walk in the light of Your truth. Give me the wisdom to understand the deeper meanings, and not just what's on the surface. Your Word has layers upon layers of knowledge and truth. Help to to understand and apply Your Word in my life. Thank You for Your unmerited favor. In Your boundless mercy, You guide my steps, protect me from harm, and bless me more abundantly than I could ever deserve. I see Your hand in the circumstances of my life, and offer up my gratitude and praise. Thank You for the gift of forgiveness. Your grace washes over me, cleansing me from all unrighteousness, and renewing my spirit. I am in awe of Your unfailing love and forgiveness, and I commit myself to extending the same grace to others, reflecting Your love in my actions and words. I trust in Your promises and rest in the assurance of Your love and faithfulness. In Jesus' name, Amen. ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD Back Roller mentioned: https://amzn.to/3O9XWEJ #commissionsearned  Fasting Resource: Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship With God by Jentezen Franklin -- https://amzn.to/4b2vUVq - #CommissionsEarned OR, listen to the audiobook free: https://amzn.to/4b4216Y - #CommissionsEarned #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #forgiveness #favor #revelationknowledge

What if I told you fasting is more than just abstinence from food, but a powerful tool for kindling zeal and breaking free from the chains of persecution. It's Day 12 of our 21 day fast. Today, we're going to talk about Fasting For Zeal and Deliverance From Persecution. We'll look at a couple of accounts of fasting from the Psalms. DISCLAIMERS: Remember, fasting does not move God. Fasting moves us. It puts us in a position to receive from God.   I am not a medical professional, and nothing in this podcast should be taken as medical advice.  Please fast responsibly. If you have any underlying health issues or unhealthy relationship with food, do not fast. And if you are going on an extended fast, it's a good idea to check with your doctor first. Father God,  In the quiet of this moment, we come before You, seeking the grace to embrace both the wisdom of the Old Covenant and the transformative love of the New. Like David, we acknowledge that vengeance belongs to You alone. And we take it a step further, taking to heart the somewhat radical teachings of Jesus under the New Covenant. He taught us to love our enemies, to bless those who curse us, and to pray for those who mistreat us. In this spirit, we lift up our hearts and voices in prayer, not only for ourselves but for those who oppose us. Father, give us the strength to pray for our enemies, for in doing so, we unleash the power of Your love and forgiveness, not just in their lives but just as profoundly in ours. Help us to see them through Your eyes – as precious creations, worthy of Your sacrifice, and deserving of our prayers. As Jesus and Stephen modeled ultimate forgiveness even in their final moments, empower us to extend the same grace to those who hurt or betray us. Our prayers for them reveal Your boundless mercy and are a step towards healing our own hearts. We seek to develop a spirit of zeal, not borne of anger or malice, but kindled by Your love and guided by Your wisdom. In praying for our enemies, let us find deliverance from the burdens of bitterness and the shackles of shame, as we transcend our fleshly instincts and embrace unconditional love and forgiveness. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen ----- Thank you for joining me on Meditating The Word today. This is Cheree, reminding you that you are in my prayers. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.  Until next time, be blessed and be a blessing. ---- Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/richard-bodgers/earth-in-bloom License code: PKB2GOTPFQSZZFD7 Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sonder-house/dreaming-elliott-jacques License code: 5HBP1CI7GED7IEQD Back Roller mentioned: https://amzn.to/3O9XWEJ #commissionsearned  Fasting Resource: Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More Intimate, More Powerful Relationship With God by Jentezen Franklin -- https://amzn.to/4b2vUVq - #CommissionsEarned OR, listen to the audiobook free: https://amzn.to/4b4216Y - #CommissionsEarned #meditatingtheword #podcast #fasting #fastingandprayer #forgiveness #zeal #deliverance