Scripture:
"The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." — James 5:16
Recap of the Sermon: Bold Prayer & Fasting – To Boldly Go
The book of Nehemiah is a story of bold faith, but it is also a story of bold prayer. From the very beginning, Nehemiah’s first response to every challenge was prayer. Before taking action, before making requests, before rebuilding—he prayed, fasted, and sought God’s guidance.
As we approach a pivotal moment in our church, we are being called to boldly step into the future, just as Nehemiah did. Over the past weeks, we have focused on building, guarding, watching, and worshiping—and now, as we prepare to make a bold financial commitment to the future of our church, we must do so with bold prayer and fasting.
The Power of Bold Prayer
Nehemiah’s example teaches us that prayer is not just an afterthought—it is the foundation for everything we do. Throughout his journey, Nehemiah:
- Prayed for others (Nehemiah 1:3-11) – He interceded for the people of Jerusalem, asking God to restore them.
- Prayed for protection, provision, and success (Nehemiah 2:4-5) – Before making requests to the king, he sought God’s favor.
- Prayed prayers of confession (Nehemiah 1:6-9) – He acknowledged sin and called the people to return to God.
- Prayed while fasting (Nehemiah 1:4) – He showed complete dependence on God by setting aside physical needs.
Nehemiah knew that bold steps required bold prayers. If we are to continue growing, reaching people, and building the future of our church, we must follow his example.
The Role of Fasting
Prayer alone is powerful, but fasting adds an extra level of spiritual focus and dependence on God. Fasting is a biblical practice seen throughout Scripture, from Nehemiah to Jesus Himself. It is a way of saying:
- “God, I need You more than I need this.”
- “I am seeking You with my whole heart.”
- “I am surrendering my desires so I can hear Your voice more clearly.”
As we step into this week of prayer and fasting, we are being called to:
- Pray boldly for others – For those in our church and those who have yet to know Jesus.
- Pray boldly for protection, provision, and success – For our church’s future and for God’s direction.
- Pray boldly through confession – Acknowledging sin and seeking spiritual renewal.
- Fast as an act of dependence – Setting aside something important to focus more fully on God.
This week is an opportunity for transformation—for our personal faith and for our church as a whole. As we pray and fast together, let’s expect God to move in powerful ways.
Application:
- Commit to daily prayer and fasting for the next week.
- Choose something to fast from (food, social media, entertainment, etc.) and use that time to seek God.
- Write down your prayers and expectations for what God will do in your life and in our church.
Prayer:
Lord, as we enter this week of bold prayer and fasting, prepare our hearts. Teach us to seek You first in all things. Give us a burden for others, a confidence in Your provision, and a desire for spiritual renewal. We are believing for great things, and we trust that You will guide us forward. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Questions for Reflection:
- What is one bold prayer you are bringing to God this week?
- How can fasting help you focus more on God?
- What are you expecting God to do in your life and in our church during this time of prayer and fasting?