Day 17: Keys to Increased Intimacy with God
“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you...” JAMES 4:8 NKJV
When we fast, five things begin to happen that draw us into an intimate and closer relationship with God:
Spiritual Cleansing. Over and over in scripture, we’re instructed to cleanse ourselves. And we do that through the washing of His word in Ephesians 5:26 and the purifying of our flesh in 2 Corinthians 7:1—two things fasting activates. As we cleanse and purify ourselves, we can be refreshed and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
Fragrant Anointing. 1 John 2:27 reveals that our anointing is from God. As we fast, His anointing raises our sensitivity to the things we need to remove from or add to our lives.
New Clothes. When we fast, God changes our wardrobe. Isaiah 61:3 says, “To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness….”
Total Commitment. When we fast, we’re giving our all to God, surrendering our will, desires, and dreams. And in return, God gives us everything we need! See Matthew 6:33.
A Powerful Promise. In John 14:21, Jesus tells us, “He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” When we fast, Jesus can manifest His presence and power in our lives!
On your 17th day of fasting, remember:
● Cleanse and purify yourself, then be refreshed and renewed by the Holy Spirit.
● Be more sensitive to the things God wants you to remove or add to your life.
● Surrender your desires, will, and dreams to God.
Prayer Focus:
Thank your Heavenly Father for the opportunity to have an intimate relationship with Him. Ask God to help you surrender everything to Him during this fast so that His presence and power can manifest in your life.
Reflection Question: What can you do to increase your level of intimacy with God?