Day 6 - feel the Pain

No it's not the pain of no food - it is the pain of playing flag football with a bunch of teenagers at the park for several hours. We had a great time today playing flag football at Pearson Springs. I think twenty or so showed up to play and the game was pretty even all the way through. What does this have to do with fasting you ask? Great question!

Today I used some muscles that have not been used for a while as is evidenced by the current pains that I am experiencing while trying not to move. Fasting is one of those exercises that challenges our spiritual muscle group to perform in a way that it is not used to performing. It feels really great and at the same time is generally met with some pain and discomfort.

Answer: Exercise more often! Time to exercise some of the spiritual disciplines of our faith, like fasting, a little more often. If we do then they will certainly come with less discomfort! Just a thought

What a way to start a fast!

Well, as is expected, many things happen in the first week of an extended fast that we can't plan for but we can prepare for. Many have been met with sickness, frustration, relational issues and much more as many others have been enjoying intimacy with God, favor with people and ministry opportunities. Whichever version seems to fit your current situation, know that God has it all under control.

First of all, be encouraged, if this week has brought opportunities and victories your direction. The Lord is pleased with all that you are doing to set your heart and thoughts on Him. Second, be encouraged, if this week has brought struggles and trials your way. The Lord is also pleased with all that you are doing to set your heart and thoughts on Him. Jesus loves us so much! I can not express to you how pleased He is to know that you want to spend more time with Him. His desire is for you. His love comes in comfort for those who are struggling and encouragement for those who are overcoming. His love never fails!

Embrace the weekend - set your thoughts and minds on Him - stay focused and enjoy the fruit of your labors. It will be worth it in the end.

We had an opportunity this week to share the simple love of Jesus with a young lady by providing housing for a night. This is an extension of your love, CPC, for people in need. As Jesus said, "I was a stranger and you invited me in" A simple act of love can make all the difference to  someone today! Praise the Lord!

21 Days of fasting - Day 2

Welcome to 21 days of fasting! We are really excited to see what God is going to do in 2013. Hopefully everyone has adjusted their schedules and made time to spend more of it with the Lord. 

As I was getting ready for this 21 days I was reading in Acts the 4th chapter about the early church. The early church was filled with excitement as they were experiencing what it was like to be followers of Christ without Him there for the first time. I'm sure they were a bit scared and wondering often what Jesus would do if He were there. They were also emboldened by those who would try to get them to stop sharing their faith and healing in Jesus name. It must have been a very exciting time of learning, trial, error, and power.

Wouldn't it be awesome to approach life and the Kingdom of God with such newness and freshness as they did? I believe Jesus wants us to approach everyday with this thought in mind, what would Jesus do if He were right here - right now? WWJD - it kind of came and went as a Fad a few years ago but the principle of the message is still powerful. It should cause us to approach everyday with a sense of wonder and excitement at the mere thought of what God may have prepared in advance for us to do today! 

How about we start tomorrow morning together praying this one thought - Jesus, what would you have me do today? I will be available to whatever it is - lead me wherever you need me. 

That's kind of catchy isn't it? Lead me wherever you need me! He has something great for you today. Don't worry or think about the food - let's keep our thoughts and minds on Christ who for the joy set before Him endured the cross and its shame for us!

Have a great God-filled day today!