I.
Beginning a Fast
Introduction
There are different kinds of fasts: a total fast from foods and liquids for a short interval of time; a liquid fast, in which only water may be drunk; a juice fast, which involves drinking water and a given amount of juices at normal mealtimes; a fast from meats, in which only fruits and vegetables may be eaten.
    It is important to understand the effects of fasting on the spirit, soul, and body. Before committing to a fast, I encourage you to study the Word of God and to read books that provide important nutritional and other health information. Understanding will help to avoid harm and injury — both physically and spiritually.
    Do not flaunt your fast, but do talk with your family and close associates if necessary to let them know what you are doing.
    (Personal note: During times of fasting I continue to prepare meals at home for my family.)
Prayer
    Father, I consecrate this fast to You and set my mind to gain understanding in these matters for which I am concerned. (Write your concerns out and keep them before your eyes. Do not lose sight of the reason for your fast.)
    I humble myself before You, Most High God. In accordance with Daniel 10:1-3, I will eat no __________ for the period of ________.
    I obey the words of Jesus by putting on festive clothing, so that no one will suspect that I am fasting.
    Father, You know every secret, and I look to You for my reward. I am assured that You hear me when I pray according to Your will, and I know that I shall have the petitions that I desire of You.
    Father, I delight myself in You, and You cause my desires to be agreeable with Your will.
    I choose the fast You have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke. I share my food with the hungry and provide the poor wanderer with shelter. When I see the naked, I will clothe him, and I will not turn away from my own flesh and blood. Then my light will break forth like the dawn, and my healing will quickly appear; then my righteousness will go before me, and Your glory, Lord, will be my rear guard.
    Father, thank You for cleansing me — spirit, soul, and body. All my ways seem innocent to me, but my motives are weighed by You, my Lord and my Master. I commit this fast to You, and my plans will succeed. I thank You that it is You Who give the wise answer of the tongue.
    Forever, O Lord, Your Word stands firm in heaven. Your faithfulness extends to every generation, like the earth You created; it endures by Your decree, for everything serves Your plans.
    In Jesus’ name, amen.



II.
Ending a Fast
Introduction
    It is best to break a fast by eating fruit, broth, or a light salad, gradually adding other foods day by day depending upon the length of the fast.
Prayer
    Father, in the name of Jesus, You are my Light and my Salvation; whom shall I fear? You are the Strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
    Father, You have given me the desires of my heart. You have heard and answered my prayers. To You be the glory! Great things You have done!
    I rest in You, awaiting the manifestation of all that I required and inquired of You.
    I thank You for giving me Your strength to face each day full of sap [of spiritual vitality]. Today I break this fast as You have directed. I thank You for this food because it is consecrated by Your Word and prayer.
    In Jesus’ name, amen.

Scripture References:
    Matthew 6:17,18 TLB    1 Thessalonians 5:23
    1 John 5:14,15    Proverbs 16:2,3 NIV
    Psalm 37:4    Proverbs 16:1
    Proverbs 16:3 AMP    Psalm 119:89-91 TLB
    Isaiah 58:6-8 TLB
    Psalm 27:1    Psalm 92:14 AMP
    Psalm 37:4    1 Timothy 4:4,5 AMP
    Psalm 34:4 AMP

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