Day 1
21 Days of Fasting and Prayer
Daily Devotional
Mark 9:29 “This kind can come out only by fasting and prayer.”
This was the explanation Jesus gave to the disciples who wondered aloud why they could not cast a demon out of a man’s son. This was their first experience of failure when taking authority over demonic activity. I’m super proud of them for even giving it a try!
The torture on this boy was huge: from childhood he had been deaf and mute and often had seizures that occasionally caused him to fall into fire or water while foaming at the mouth and gnashing his teeth. Deliverance was everyone’s desire and most definitely in the heart of God for this boy and his heart-broken father. The disciples approached this issue with confidence and were surprised to discover their power ineffective against this horrible torture.
Then, when Jesus showed up, the father reached out to Him directly and pleaded, “But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”
I especially love this part of the story: “If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Often, this has been my own prayer as well.
Today, reflect on this:
Everything is possible for one who believes. What is holding you back from deeper and more powerful belief in this Truth and God’s power?
The father’s prayer; “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief.” Spend a few moments asking for God’s grace and help for your unbelief, while also confessing your belief in Him. Ask for His help to overcome your unbelief and grow a stronger trust in Him.
“This kind can come out only by fasting and prayer.” Sometimes, perhaps there is a deeper expression of desperation or pursuit we can experience through fasting and prayer. Make some decisions today about how you will spend this 21 days in terms of fasting and praying. Make some basic commitments and plans, and then make the daily commitments necessary to follow through and see God work in this season of your life.
Make a journal entry today and record a specific list of desires you have in your heart for this 21-day journey. Be courageous and ask for the desires of your heart. Then get started walking this journey with God.