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Archive for January, 2010

Fasting Basics

SIMPLY STATED, BIBLICAL FASTING IS REFRAINING FROM FOOD FOR A SPIRITUAL PURPOSE.

According to the Bible, there are three duties of every Christian: give, pray and fast. Biblical fasting takes a lot of discipline and strength—strength which you can only receive from God. Your private discipline will bring you rewards in Heaven, says Matthew 6.

When you give God your first through fasting, prayer and giving at the beginning of the year, you set the course for the entire year.

Why should I fast?

  • Are you in need of healing or a miracle?
  • Do you need the tender touch of God in your life?
  • Is there a dream inside you that only He can make possible?
  • Are you in need of a fresh encounter?
  • Do you desire a deeper, more intimate and powerful relationship with the Lord?
  • Are you ready to have heightened sensitivity to the desires of God?
  • Do you need to break away from bondages that have been holding you hostage?
  • Is there a friend or loved one that needs Salvation?
  • Do you desire to know God’s will for your life?

TYPES OF FASTS

Full Fast – Drink only liquids (you establish the number of days).

The Daniel Fast – Eat no meat, no sweets and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables.Learn More

3-Day Fast – This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.

Partial Fast – A partial fast is from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm or from sun up to sundown. You can select from three types of fasting —a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.

Scripture References for Fasting:
Matthew 6:16-18Matthew 9:14-15Luke 18:9-14

Relation to Prayer and Reading of the Word:
1 Samuel 1:6-817-18Nehemiah 1:4Daniel 9:3, 20Joel 2:12Luke 2:37Acts 10:30,Acts 13:2

Corporate Fasting:
1 Samuel 7:5-6Ezra 8:21-23Nehemiah 9:1-3Joel 2:15-16Jonah 3:5-10Acts 27:33-37

Remember: it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him to which God responds with a blessing (Isaiah 58Jeremiah 14:121 Corinthians 8:8). May God greatly bless you as you fast!

We pulled these from Jentezen Franklin’s website on fasting…you can read even more there.

Coming This Weekend

2010 is YOUR year for a harvest.  Come out this weekend at either 10am, 11:30am or 1pm, because Pastor Bil has a message to kick off your best year yet…and listen as he gives us three things we can do to get a harvest this year.

Day 2 of #NTPin30

Today’s Bible Reading is:

New Testament – Matthew 10-15

Proverbs – Chapter 5

Make sure you leave a comment on what scriptures God is laying on your heart as you read.

Do you need a plan?  Click >>> HERE <<< for a printable plan.

Day One Of #NTPin30

Today I finished my readings in both the NT and Proverbs…today’s reading were Matthew 1-9 and Proverbs 4.

From Proverbs Chapter 4 the verse that stood out for me was verse 23 “Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.”  It’s important that we guard our hearts.  So often we guard so many things…but it’s what’s in our hearts that defines us.  That’s why the writer of Proverbs said ABOVE ALL ELSE.  Above everything else guard your heart.  You can do that, one, by reading and filling yourself with the Word.

From the readings in Matthew the verse that stood out as Matthew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”  So often we encourage people to witness by mouth…but did you know that the best witness is with what you “do” and not “say”.  It’s easy to say one thing but it’s what we do that stands out.  As parents how you live out your life is more important that what you tell your kids to do.  The same is true in your work and relationships.  Begin today to let your life shine so that others will see and be drawn to Jesus.

How did your reading impact you today?  Leave a message.

If you twitter put the hashtag #NTPin30 in your tweets as you discuss what your reading.

30 Day Bible Reading Plan

This Weekend we challenged everyone at the campus to a 30 day Bible Reading Plan. The plan starts today, January 4th so click on the file below and download the plan.

Choose one of two options…read through the New Testament in 30 days or read the book of Proverbs in 30 days.

Don’t worry…if you missed the kick off you can still get started just choose one of the plans and adjust the start dates.

Click the link below:
30 Day Bible Reading Plan

Also if you twitter or facebook be sure to share the verses that stand out for you are you are reading.  If you twitter them be sure to share it with the hashtag #NTPin30

One way you can read is online at youversion.com which is an online bible reading site that is free for you to use.

This Weekend At 5 Points

This Sunday, January 3rd, we wrap up our series BIRTH.

God wants us all to experience the re-birth that comes with knowing His Son. God puts a dream in each one of us that will serve the purpose of expanding and enriching His kingdom. Join us at 5 Points as we learn how to discover the unique dreams and vision in each of our hearts that God wants to birth for the good of others!

Join us at either 10am – 11:30am – 1pm