We live in unprecedented and uncertain times as we fight the unseen enemy of COVID-19. All sports have been canceled. Schools are closed. The world seems to have grinded to a halt while fear over disease, financial adversity, and the future take hold.
Christ’s people need to be a praying people in this difficult time. The world has too many needs and we have too many glorious promises to hold on to! We don’t know what will happen, but we do know God is sovereign over this virus and will work all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28)—even a disrupted life, financial difficulty, sickness, or even death. You can take that to the bank (spiritually speaking, of course).
In addition to praying for those most affected by COVID-19 and their loved ones, let me suggest we fast for Christ’s return. Fasting is like adding an exclamation point to our prayers and brings promised reward. It’s too easy to love our comfortable lives on earth and forget we’re made for a better country, a heavenly one (Hebrews 11:16). Would you join me in fasting for the following?
1. Fast to deepen your longing for heaven
Pray: Lord, would you open the eyes of my heart to see the blessed hope of the calling I have in Christ (Ephesians 1:18; Titus 2:13). Please remind me constantly that this earth is not my home and that I can’t get comfortable here. I don’t want to value my earthly situation over what You have prepared for me (1 Corinthians 2:9; John 14:2). Push me out of my comfort zone and make me more dependent on you and more eager for the glorious future You promise me in Christ. May this longing for heaven remind me of eternity (Ecclesiastes 3:11) and make me more useful to You and others on earth.
2. Fast for the Lord to prepare you for His return
Pray: Lord, during these crazy days of uncertainty and fear, I pray you would wean me from the things of the world that occupy my mind and affections. Sanctify me by Your Word and help me run the race of life with perseverance, holiness, and fruitfulness for Your Kingdom. Help me be alert to the spiritual reality that surrounds me and the unique gospel opportunities that will come during this COVID-19 crisis. Would this crazy time prune unfruitful branches from my life (John 15:2).
3. Fast, asking Jesus to come back.
Pray: Lord, we long for your return and echo the last words of the Bible, “Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20). Would Your Kingdom come in fullness and will be done completely on earth as it is in heaven. We want You to bring an end to all sin, idolatry, suffering, and the curse that still plagues the earth (Genesis 3:14–19; Revelation 22:3). Come and establish Your perfect reign and rule. Come and judge your enemies and gather Your bride for Yourself.
Fasting Is Spiritual Warfare
A crafty politician never wastes a good crisis. Neither does a believer. Let’s make the most of this uncertain time by crying out to God for Christ’s return.
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