All posts by warren

Warren Lavallee is a follower of Yeshua with a passion for seeing the Body of Christ united in Spirit and truth. As the author behind 133.church, Warren writes to call believers into deeper fellowship with God and with one another, inspired by the heartbeat of Psalm 133. His writings are marked by a love for Scripture, a pursuit of holiness, and a longing for revival rooted in prayer and intimacy with the Lord. Warren believes that true unity comes when we seek the face of God together, laying aside every division for the sake of Christ. Through every essay, devotion, and prayer, he invites readers to pursue more of God and to live fully surrendered to His purposes. When Warren is not writing, you’ll find him engaged in prayer gatherings, speaking life into churches, and encouraging believers to walk faithfully with God. His greatest desire is to see the Church become one again — a living testimony of God’s glory in the earth.
Love, The Pursuit

Love the Lord with Your Whole Being

What Does It Mean to Love God with Your Whole Heart? Loving the Lord with your whole being is a profound and transformative experience.

“Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one [the only God]! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and mind and with all your soul and with all your strength [your entire being].” – Deuteronomy 6:4-5 (AMP)

God is not divided, nor is He one among many. He alone is the true and living God, the Creator of heaven and earth, and He calls for your complete devotion. The greatest commandment is not a suggestion—it is a call to love the Lord with every part of your being.

But do you truly love Him with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength? Or have you offered Him only a portion while keeping the rest for yourself? God does not want lukewarm love; He calls for an all-consuming devotion. Jesus reaffirmed this in the New Testament, saying:

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” – Matthew 22:37 (NASB)

Nothing less than everything belongs to Him.

God Held Nothing Back—Will You?

God gave everything for you. The proof is in Jesus Christ:

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (NASB)

God did not hold back His only Son. He gave everything so that you might live. Will you now hesitate to give Him your whole life?

The Holy Spirit is still calling, still convicting, still transforming lives.

“Today if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” – Hebrews 3:15 (NASB)

Yet the world tempts you to hold back—to divide your heart, to love God when it is convenient. But God demands your whole being. He is worthy of nothing less than your full surrender.

Jesus said:

“If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” – Luke 9:23 (NASB)

This is the love God desires—a love that lays everything down, seeks Him above all else, and forsakes sin to follow Christ completely.

Do Not Hesitate—Respond to His Call

Do not be one who hears and refuses to respond! If hell is real, if sin is death, if the blood of Jesus was the price of salvation—will you hesitate?

Tear down every idol. Forsake every distraction. Let your love for Him be total, consuming, and undivided. This is the only love worthy of the Lord your God.

Understanding the Command: A Word Study on Loving God

A deeper look into the original Hebrew words in Deuteronomy 6:5 reveals the full depth of God’s command:

1. “Love” (אָהַב – ahav)

  • Ahav is more than an emotional feeling—it is a devoted, covenantal love that includes loyalty and action.
  • It is the same kind of love God commands in Deuteronomy 6:5, which Jesus later reaffirms in Matthew 22:37.
  • Loving God is not passive—it is a wholehearted commitment that shapes every thought, decision, and action.

2. “Heart” (לֵבָב – levav)

  • In Hebrew, the heart is not just emotions—it includes the mind, will, and intellect.
  • Loving God with all your heart means surrendering every thought and desire to Him.
  • Scripture commands us: “Take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ.” – 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NASB)

3. “Soul” (נֶפֶשׁ – nephesh)

  • Nephesh means “life” or “whole being.” It includes emotions, personality, and the very breath of life.
  • Loving God with all your soul means giving Him everything that makes you who you are.
  • “Bless the Lord, my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” – Psalm 103:1 (NASB)

4. “Strength” (מְאֹד – me’od)

  • Me’od doesn’t just mean physical strength—it means “muchness,” intensity, and everything that you are.
  • It is a call to love God with all your energy, resources, time, and ability.
  • This is the kind of devotion seen in Luke 9:23, where Jesus says: “If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”

Bringing It All Together: A Call to Total Devotion

Loving God with all your heart, soul, and strength is not optional—it is a command. It is a love that consumes everything in you.

This is the love Jesus demonstrated when He laid down His life for you. This is the love the Holy Spirit ignites when you surrender to Him.

God has given everything for you. Will you hold anything back?

A Prayer of Total Surrender

Holy Spirit, search me and expose every place where my love is divided. Let me not be deaf to Your voice or resistant to Your transforming power. Fill me, consume me, and make me wholly devoted to the One who alone is worthy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See Also

Faith, Spiritual

Come Higher: Lay It All Down Before the Lord

{Day Six}

Beloved, do not be deceived—there is always more of God to be found. Have you tasted the sweetness of His presence, only to realize how little you have truly known Him? Has the fire of His revelation burned away the illusions of your past faith, leaving you undone? Do not shrink back. This is His mercy drawing you deeper. Remember, there is always a chance for more of God no matter the cost.

Many say they know Him, yet they walk in shadows, content with a dim reflection of His glory. But you—He is calling you higher. He is shaking the very ground beneath you, removing what can be shaken, so that only He remains. Will you resist Him? Will you cling to the old, lifeless things He is tearing away? Or will you fall before Him and say, Take it all, Lord—only give me more of You!

The Fire of His Presence Demands Everything

Isaiah saw Him and cried out, “Woe is me!” (Isaiah 6:5). Moses trembled before Him and removed his sandals (Exodus 3:5). Peter fell at Yeshua’s feet, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, Lord!” (Luke 5:8).

What will you do when the weight of His glory comes upon you? Will you shrink back in fear, or will you press in, crying, “Burn away every impurity, Lord—only let me know You!” This is the journey of seeking more of God no matter the cost.

The Spirit is calling, but the cost is high. You cannot hold onto your comfort, your pride, your reputation, your control. He is asking for your entire life. Nothing less. All that you are, laid at His feet.

“If anyone wants to come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” (Luke 9:23 NASB)

Many have stopped at salvation, satisfied that they have escaped hell. But there is more, far more. Yeshua did not die merely to rescue you from destruction—He died to bring you into the fullness of Himself. His cross was not the end of your journey but the beginning. Will you press on, or will you settle for less? Choose to seek more of God no matter the cost.

Break the Illusions—Come Into the Light

You thought you knew Him before. Perhaps you did. But now you see—there is an ocean of glory you have yet to dive into. Every revelation, every breaking, every fire He allows is an invitation: Come closer. See more. Be transformed.

Paul, a man who saw the risen Lord, who was caught up into the third heaven, who performed mighty signs and wonders, still cried out:

“I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Yeshua my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them mere rubbish, so that I may gain Christ.” (Philippians 3:8 NASB)

Are you willing to count all things as loss? Your past experiences, your reputation, your plans—will you lay them down, if only to have more of Him? This is the path of desiring more of God no matter the cost.

The lukewarm will not see His face. The comfortable will not taste the depths of His presence. But to the hungry, to the desperate, to those who cry out, “More of You, Lord!”—He will reveal Himself.

Will You Answer His Call?

This moment is holy. He is drawing you now. You feel the stirring, the weight of His voice calling you out of shallow waters. Will you listen? Will you follow?

Do not delay. Do not harden your heart. Lay everything down and run after Him. He is waiting to fill you with more of Himself than you ever thought possible. Truly, you can have more of God no matter the cost.

A Prayer of Surrender

Father, I hear You calling, and I will not turn away. I lay my life at Your feet—every dream, every plan, every comfort. Burn away everything that is not of You. Take me deeper. Open my eyes. Break me if You must, but do not let me remain as I am. I want You, Lord—more of You, no matter the cost. I give You my whole heart. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

See Also

Revival, The Pursuit

The Lord Is Near—Do Not Turn Away

Beloved, hear the voice of the Lord—do not harden your heart, for The Lord Nears.

{Day Five}

God’s Unchanging Call to You

God never changes. He is I AM (Exodus 3:14), the eternal foundation against which all things are measured. Though the world shifts and people falter, God remains faithful, merciful, and ready to forgive (Psalm 86:5). The Lord nears, His love is abundant, His mercy overflows, and He calls to all who will listen.

Yet, He does not leave us as we are. He desires a transformation—not just an outward confession but a deep, lasting renewal in our souls. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8), not to condemn but to bring true, lasting life. Indeed, the Lord nears to bring transformation.

If you hear His voice today, do not resist (Hebrews 3:15). The hardened heart shuts out the voice of God, but the heart that is tender before Him will be filled with His presence as the Lord nears.

The Spirit Moves in Power

When the Word of God is spoken, the Spirit moves. As Peter preached, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard (Acts 10:44). This is not a distant event—it is the reality of God at work today. The Lord nears through His Word.

God’s Word is not empty—it is living, active, and powerful. Those who receive it become living letters, written not with ink, but by the Spirit of the living God, inscribed upon human hearts (2 Corinthians 3:3). Your life becomes a testimony, a witness of the transforming power of God.

But transformation requires surrender. The Spirit does not merely declare us righteous—He makes righteousness our desire. The atonement in Christ’s blood has made this change possible, and the Holy Spirit makes it a reality.

What Must You Do?

If the Spirit is speaking to you, do not ignore Him. The enemy wants to keep you indifferent, distracted, or convinced that you can wait. But now is the time to seek the Lord.

Here’s how you can respond:

1. Call upon Him in prayer. Open your heart to Him and invite the Holy Spirit to reveal anything that needs to change. Remember, the Lord nears those who seek Him.

2. Repent and surrender. If there is sin in your life, confess it and ask God to cleanse you. He is ready to forgive (Psalm 86:5).

3. Read His Word with expectation. The Spirit speaks through Scripture—let it shape you.

4. Act on what you hear. Obedience is the key to spiritual growth. The more you follow His leading, the more His presence will be evident in your life.

5. Stay in community. Surround yourself with believers who encourage and challenge you to walk in faith.

A Final Warning and a Promise

The Lord is near—do not turn Him away. Indifference is dangerous. When we reject the voice of the Spirit, our hearts grow cold, and the conviction we once felt fades. But for those who seek Him, He will answer.

“Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.” (Isaiah 55:6)

God is calling—will you answer?

See Also

Faith, Spiritual

Day Four: The Freedom of His Presence

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. But we all, with unveiled faces, looking as in a mirror at the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.” — 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 (NASB) This passage beautifully illustrates the concept of Freedom in Yeshua.

“The mountains melted like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.” — Psalm 97:5 (NASB)

Where the presence of Yeshua is, there is true freedom in Yeshua. The world offers a counterfeit—self-sufficiency, fleeting pleasure, and so-called independence that only leads to deeper bondage. But true liberty is found in surrendering to El Shaddai, the Almighty God, who alone breaks every chain.

When His presence fills a place, sin loses its grip. Fear, anxiety, and oppression cannot stand before the radiance of His glory. Just as light dispels darkness, the Spirit of the Lord shatters strongholds that seek to enslave His people. You were never meant to live bound by sin, fear, or the opinions of others. You were created to walk in the freedom of His love, fully surrendered to His will, fully alive in His grace.

But this freedom is not the world’s version—it is not the right to do whatever you please. It is freedom from sin, not freedom to sin. It is the ability to walk in righteousness, to experience the joy of His presence, and to live unshaken by the storms of this world.

Are you carrying burdens that feel impossible to break? Press into the presence of El Shaddai to experience freedom in Yeshua. Seek His face in worship, in prayer, in His Word. The more you abide in Him, the more you will walk in the liberty of His Spirit. Every chain will fall. Every weight will lift. And you will step into the fullness of His freedom.

Prayer for Freedom

Abba Father, I long to dwell in Your presence, where true freedom reigns. Break every chain that binds me, and remove every weight that keeps me from walking fully in You. Let Your Spirit flood my life, filling every corner with Your light and truth. Teach me to abide in You daily so that I may walk in the freedom You have given me through Yeshua. I surrender every fear, sin, and burden to You. Lead me into deeper intimacy with You, for in Your presence, I am truly free. Amen.

Surrendered Hearts Bring Healing

“Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their wrongdoings against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation.” — 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 (NASB)

When we surrender to El Shaddai, He moves through us to heal the land. The power of true surrender is that it does not stop with us—His Spirit works in and through us to bring restoration. His presence transforms us so that His glory may be revealed on the earth.

The world is broken, but Yeshua has given us the ministry of reconciliation and freedom in Yeshua (2 Corinthians 5:18). He calls us to stand in the gap—to intercede, to proclaim His truth, to be vessels of His presence. When we humble ourselves, seek His face, and turn from sin, He responds with healing (2 Chronicles 7:14). This is not just a promise—it is a call to action.

The enemy wants the Church distracted, divided, and silent. But now is the time to rise up in faith. Revival does not begin with a building; it begins with surrendered hearts. And when God’s people move in step with Him, revival spreads like fire.

Let this be our prayer:

Father, we surrender to You. Move through us, cleanse us, and make us vessels of Your healing power. Let Your presence flow from our lives and transform our cities, our families, and our nation. May Your name be exalted as You restore what is broken and bring freedom in Yeshua. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

Draw Near—He is Here

“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” — James 4:8 (NASB)

That deep longing—to be held close, to be known, to be secure—resonates in every human heart. Yeshua is near. He does not stand at a distance, waiting for you to figure it all out. He is actively drawing near to those who call upon Him in truth.

Let your heart find rest in Him. He is your refuge, your strength, and the One who carries you when you have no strength left. Press into Him. Seek His face. Let His presence surround you like a shield, for in Him, there is freedom in Yeshua.

He is faithful. He will never let you go.

Abba, hold this heart close. Let Your presence be felt in a way that leaves no room for doubt. Fill every empty space with Your love and draw them deeper into You. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

See Also:

Revival, The Pursuit

The Way is Open

Day Three: The Veil Was Torn—The Way Is Open

Beloved, do you not know? The way to the Father stands wide open! From the moment Yeshua cried out, “It is finished!” and breathed His last, the veil of the temple was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27:50-51). Not by human hands, but by the hand of El Shaddai Himself. No more separation. No more barrier. No more distance between God and man.

That veil was not a mere curtain. It was thick, woven, nearly impossible to tear. It was the division between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place—the very presence of God. Before, only the high priest could enter, and only once a year, bearing the blood of sacrifice. But now, by the blood of Yeshua, the door is forever open. His flesh was torn so that we might enter in. The veil is torn, and the way is clear. The invitation stands.

The Anointing Remains

Yet some of you have forgotten what He has placed upon you. You once walked in the power of His anointing. You once burned with vision and passion. But time has passed. Trials have come. You have faced testing, and perhaps you have fallen. The enemy whispers, “It is gone. You are disqualified.” But he is a liar. What God anoints remains anointed.

The prophet Samuel anointed David as king long before he sat on the throne. Years of exile, caves, betrayal, and battle did not remove the oil of God upon his life. The anointing did not fade in the wilderness. It did not weaken in the waiting. It endured. Just like when the veil was torn, the anointing does not fade.

Even now, the Spirit of the Lord reminds you: “For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Romans 11:29, NASB). His anointing upon your life is not fragile. It does not evaporate with time. It does not dissolve in the fire. What He placed upon you then is still upon you now.

Arise and Reclaim It!

Hear the call of the Lord: Arise! Reengage! Step back into the vision He gave you. The time of hesitation is over. The time of delay has passed. The Spirit of God says, “Return to Me, and I will return to you” (Malachi 3:7). Seek Him, and you will find Him. Call upon Him, and He will answer (Jeremiah 33:3).

What has been dormant will awaken. What was buried will rise. The embers still burn beneath the ashes—breathe upon them, O Lord! Even now, the anointing that was placed upon you is stirring again. It has not left you. It has not weakened. He is calling you to step forward once more, as when the veil is torn and the way is open.

Lay everything before Him. Surrender it all anew. Return to the fire of His presence. The way is open, the veil is torn, and the anointing remains. Step in!

A Prayer of Returning

Father, I come before You, humbled and hungry. I lay everything at Your feet—every fear, every failure, every doubt. I know Your calling has not changed, Your anointing has not lifted, and Your presence has not departed. Ignite me again. Stir the fire within me. I seek You, knowing You will be found. I turn to You, knowing You are here. Just as the veil is torn, restore me, O Lord, and let me walk in the fullness of what You have spoken over my life. In the name of Yeshua, my King and High Priest, amen.

See Also

Devotion to God, Faith

Day Two: God’s Call to Refocus on Him

Beloved, God’s faithfulness is unshakable. Though the mountains crumble and the hills quake, His covenant of peace will never fail (Isaiah 54:10). Like the mountains that surround Jerusalem, El Shaddai surrounds you with His steadfast love and protection, both now and forever (Psalm 125:2). This truth reminds us that no matter the storms or uncertainties we face, the Creator of heaven and earth holds us securely in His hands, calling us to refocus on Him.

Yet, in His unfailing compassion, Yeshua calls us to a deeper walk with Him. He reminds us that our energy, our heart, and our very lives belong to Him. So often, we chase after the fleeting comforts and distractions of this world—things that will one day fade away. But He calls us higher. He calls us to seek first His kingdom and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), to lay aside the weight of worldly pursuits, and to press into His presence with all our heart, soul, and strength (Deuteronomy 6:4-6), responding to God’s call to refocus on Him.

The mountains, though mighty, stand in awe of His works (Psalm 65:8-9). How much more should we—redeemed by the blood of Yeshua HaMashiach—offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God? (Romans 12:1). This is our true worship: to love the Lord with every ounce of who we are, pursuing Him with undivided hearts, and letting Him renew our minds so we might live according to His perfect will, obedient to God’s call to refocus on Him.

Common sins often weigh us down, keeping us from fully pursuing God’s call on our lives. These include pride, greed, lust, envy, bitterness, laziness, idolatry, and unchecked anger. Even good things like comfort, entertainment, and the pursuit of material wealth can become distractions when they take priority over God. Which of these are distracting you from seeking God’s face and walking more fully in His will? Take a moment to reflect and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal anything in your life that needs to be surrendered to Him, so you can refocus on God’s call.

Let today be a turning point. Lay down every distraction, every sin that entangles, and every idol that has stolen your focus. Set your eyes on Him, the Author and Perfecter of your faith. When you choose to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, your heart will overflow with His light, His peace, and His purpose (Matthew 6:19-24) as you heed God’s call to refocus on Him.

God surrounds you, strengthens you, and calls you. Pursue Him. Press in. Give Him your all, and answer His call to refocus on Him.

Prayer:

Abba Father, I come to You, humbled and ready to surrender all that has taken my focus from You. Forgive me for chasing after the temporary when You are eternal. Surround me with Your steadfast love and draw me closer to Your heart. Help me to lay down every distraction and press into Your presence, seeking first Your kingdom and righteousness. Transform my mind and renew my spirit so that my life reflects Your glory. I want more of You and less of me. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

See Also

Faith, The Pursuit

Stand Firm in God

Beloved, do you not know that God has called you to Himself, to stand firmly in His truth and walk in His ways? He has called you by name, not for your glory, but for His. And yet, how can you stand firm in God if your heart remains divided? How can you stand if sin weighs you down, keeping you from the fullness of His presence?

Listen carefully: “If My people, who are called by My name, humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14, NASB). This is His promise to you—a promise that requires your response. God desires your whole heart, not fragments of your attention. Stand firm in God and His promises.

To stand in the Lord, you must first repent. Do not turn away from this word, for repentance is life. To repent is to surrender, to bow low before El Elyon and confess your sins, trusting in His mercy. He does not delight in your destruction but in your restoration. Beloved, turn now! Lay your sins at the foot of the cross where Yeshua bled for you, for “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, NASB).

But do not stop at repentance. God calls you to pray and seek His face. Prayer is not a ritual; it is a relationship. When you pray, you step into the presence of the Almighty, El Shaddai, who is eager to meet with you. Are you seeking His face or only His hand? Do you long for His presence, or do you seek only His blessings? Beloved, He is your greatest treasure. Seek Him with all your heart, and you will find Him. Stand firm in God through persistent prayer.

Faith will sustain you in this holy pursuit. To stand in the Lord is to believe in His promises, even when circumstances tempt you to doubt. To walk in His ways is to trust in His character, even when the path seems unclear. Faith is the anchor of your soul, the firm foundation on which you stand. Without it, you will falter. But with faith, you will rise above every storm, for “the one who trusts in Him will not be put to shame” (Romans 10:11, NASB).

And, beloved, you must submit to the sanctifying work of the Ruach HaKodesh. Sanctification is not a work of man but a work of God in you, transforming you day by day into the image of Yeshua. Do not resist His refining fire. Do not cling to what He seeks to remove. Holiness is not an option for the child of God—it is your calling. “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16, NASB). Stand firm in God as He sanctifies you.

Beloved, this is your charge: repent, pray, seek His face, and submit to His sanctifying hand. Stand in the Lord, unmoved by the storms of life, anchored in faith, and driven by His love. The God who calls you is faithful. He will finish the good work He has begun in you. Do not delay. Humble yourself before Him, for His mercy is abundant, and His love is unchanging. Stand firm in God and remain steadfast in His love.

Prayer:

Abba, we humble ourselves before You. Search our hearts and reveal every sin that separates us from You. We turn from our wicked ways, and we seek Your face, longing for more of You. Strengthen our faith, Lord, that we might stand in Your truth. Refine us, sanctify us, and make us holy as You are holy. Draw us closer, that we may walk in Your ways and glorify Your name. In the name of Yeshua, our Savior, Amen.

See Also

fasting

Guide to Biblical Fasting

Fasting has always held a special place in Scripture as a way to draw nearer to God and seek His will. In this article, we will explore the different types of fasts found in the Bible, their purposes, examples of fasting in Scripture, and practical tips for fasting safely.

What Is Biblical Fasting?

Biblical fasting is the voluntary abstention from food (or other comforts) for a spiritual purpose. Fasting is not merely about going without; it is about pressing into God for spiritual renewal, guidance, and breakthroughs. As Yeshua (Jesus) taught, fasting should not be for show but a private act of devotion (Matthew 6:16-18, NASB).

Types of Fasts in the Bible

The Bible highlights several types of fasts, each with unique purposes:

1. The Regular Fast

This fast involves abstaining from all food while drinking water. It is the most common form of fasting seen in Scripture. Yeshua fasted in the wilderness for forty days (Matthew 4:2, NASB).

Purpose: To seek God’s direction, strength, and clarity.

2. The Partial Fast

A partial fast limits certain foods or meals rather than complete abstention. For example, Daniel’s fast included only vegetables and water (Daniel 1:12, NASB).

Purpose: To remain disciplined while maintaining physical strength, often used for longer durations.

3. The Absolute Fast

This involves abstaining from all food and drink. Esther and the people of Israel fasted for three days without food or water (Esther 4:16, NASB). Paul also fasted in this way after encountering Yeshua on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:9, NASB).

Purpose: Used during critical situations requiring total dependence on God.

Caution: This fast should only be done for short durations and with prayerful consideration.

4. The Corporate Fast

A group of people undertakes a corporate fast. Upon hearing Jonah’s message, the people of Nineveh fasted together in repentance (Jonah 3:5, NASB). Similarly, King Jehoshaphat called the nation of Judah to fast (2 Chronicles 20:3, NASB).

Purpose: To unite a community in prayer, repentance, and seeking God’s intervention.

5. The Supernatural Fast

A supernatural fast goes beyond human ability and requires divine intervention. Moses fasted for forty days and nights without food or water while on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:28, NASB).

Purpose: These fasts are rare and demonstrate God’s supernatural provision.

Biblical Examples of Fasting

  • Moses fasted to receive the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28).
  • David fasted in repentance (2 Samuel 12:16).
  • Ezra fasted to seek God’s protection (Ezra 8:23).
  • Yeshua fasted before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:2).
  • The early church fasted before commissioning missionaries (Acts 13:2-3).

Each example shows fasting’s power to deepen intimacy with El Shaddai and bring about transformation.

The Purposes of Fasting

Fasting in the Bible serves various spiritual purposes:

  1. Seeking God’s Guidance: Ezra and the Israelites fasted for protection and direction (Ezra 8:21-23).
  2. Repentance: Fasting accompanies heartfelt repentance, as seen with the Ninevites (Jonah 3:5).
  3. Spiritual Breakthroughs: Yeshua taught that prayer and fasting can only overcome some spiritual strongholds (Mark 9:29, NASB).
  4. Worship and Devotion: Anna, a prophetess, fasted as an act of worship (Luke 2:37).
  5. Strength for Trials: Yeshua’s fast prepared Him for spiritual battles (Matthew 4:2).

How to Fast Safely

Fasting is powerful but must be approached with wisdom, especially if it involves extended durations or health conditions.

1. Prepare Spiritually and Physically

  • Spend time in prayer before beginning your fast.
  • Gradually reduce your food intake to prepare your body.

2. Stay Hydrated

  • Drink plenty of water, especially during longer fasts.

3. Know Your Limits

  • If you have health conditions, consult a doctor before fasting.
  • Begin with shorter fasts and gradually increase the duration as you gain experience.

4. Focus on Prayer

  • Replace meal times with prayer and Bible reading.
  • Journaling can help you reflect on what God is revealing during the fast.

5. Break the Fast Wisely

  • End your fast with light, easily digestible foods to avoid shocking your system.

Biblical Fasts

  1. Moses: Fasted for forty days and nights while receiving the Ten Commandments (Exodus 34:28; Deuteronomy 9:9, NASB).
  2. David: Fasted in repentance after his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:16-17, NASB).
  3. Ezra: Fasted and prayed for protection and guidance for the Israelites (Ezra 8:21-23, NASB).
  4. Esther and the Israelites: Fasted for three days for protection and deliverance (Esther 4:16, NASB).
  5. Daniel: Fasted partially, abstaining from rich foods and wine, seeking understanding from God (Daniel 1:12; Daniel 10:2-3, NASB).
  6. The People of Nineveh: Fasted in repentance after Jonah’s warning (Jonah 3:5-9, NASB).
  7. Jehoshaphat and Judah: Called a nationwide fast to seek God’s help against their enemies (2 Chronicles 20:3-4, NASB).
  8. Anna the Prophetess: Fasted regularly as part of her worship and devotion to God (Luke 2:37, NASB).
  9. Yeshua (Jesus): Fasted for forty days in the wilderness before His ministry (Matthew 4:2, NASB; Luke 4:1-2, NASB).
  10. The Early Church:
    • Fasted before commissioning Paul and Barnabas for ministry (Acts 13:2-3, NASB).
    • Paul fasted after his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:9, NASB).

These scriptures reflect how fasting was used for repentance, worship, seeking guidance, and spiritual breakthroughs.

Closing Thoughts

Fasting is a spiritual discipline that invites God to work deeply in our hearts. Whether you fast for guidance, repentance, or worship, remember that the heart of fasting is not about deprivation but dependence. As Yeshua reminds us, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied” (Matthew 5:6, NASB).

A Prayer for Fasting

Abba Father, thank You for the gift of fasting, which draws us closer to You. As we fast, help us to seek Your face with humble hearts and unwavering faith. Reveal Your will and deepen our intimacy with You. May we hunger for Your righteousness and rely entirely on Your strength. In Yeshua’s name, amen.

See Also

Hearing God’s Voice

Speak, Lord, for Your Servant is Listening

God is speaking to His people. His voice is not distant or silent; He longs to guide, to instruct, and to pour out His plans for your life. Yet, the question remains: are you listening? Are you ready to respond when He calls, as in the Scripture, “Speak Lord for Your Servant is Listening”? Throughout Scripture, we see men and women who heard the voice of God, responded with faith, and were forever changed. But listening to God is not passive. It is an active pursuit that requires humility, persistence, and surrender.

When Samuel heard the voice of the Lord as a young boy, his reply was simple but profound: “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10 NASB). His heart was positioned to hear and obey. Isaiah, standing before the throne of God, declared boldly, “Here am I. Send me!”(Isaiah 6:8 NASB). These responses were not only acts of faith but acts of surrender—offering themselves wholly to God’s purposes.

The same God who spoke to Samuel and Isaiah speaks today. The question is not whether God speaks, but whether we are willing to quiet our hearts, press into His presence, and listen.

The Call to Persevere in Listening

There are times when hearing God requires persistence. We see this in Daniel, who prayed and fasted for three weeks before an angel appeared to him with the answer he sought. The angel explained: “From the first day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself before your God, your words were heard… but the prince of the kingdom of Persia was standing in my way for twenty-one days” (Daniel 10:12-13 NASB).

Daniel’s story reminds us that spiritual resistance is real. When you ask God for guidance, the answer may not come immediately. But do not lose heart! Keep seeking, keep asking, and keep knocking (Matthew 7:7 NASB). Your persistence demonstrates faith and trust in God’s perfect timing. God hears you the moment you pray, and His answer will come at the appointed time.

Hearing and Responding to God’s Voice

Hearing the voice of God today may not always look like a burning bush or an audible call from heaven, but He is still speaking to His people in personal, profound, and powerful ways. God communicates through His Word, through the Holy Spirit, and through circumstances, but hearing Him requires intentionality on our part.

1. Through His Word

The primary way God speaks is through the Bible. As we read and meditate on Scripture, the Holy Spirit brings passages to life, applying them to our specific situations. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that “the Word of God is living and active” (NASB). To hear Him clearly, prioritize time in His Word daily. Ask Him to reveal Himself through the pages of Scripture, and listen with a heart ready to obey.

2. Through the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit lives within believers, guiding, convicting, and encouraging us. When you pray, quiet your heart to sense His direction. It may come as a gentle nudge, a persistent thought, or peace about a decision. Jesus said, “The Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and remind you of all that I said to you” (John 14:26 NASB). Be sensitive to His prompting, and when He speaks, act in faith.

3. Through Prayer and Stillness

In a world full of noise and distractions, it’s easy to miss God’s voice. But when you intentionally set aside time for prayer and stillness, you create space for Him to speak. Elijah didn’t hear God in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in the still, small voice (1 Kings 19:12 NASB). Turn off the distractions, quiet your mind, and simply ask, “Speak, Lord.” Then, wait for Him in the stillness.

4. Through Circumstances and Others

Sometimes God speaks through the circumstances in our lives or through wise counsel from others. Pay attention to how He might be orchestrating events to guide you or opening and closing doors to direct your steps. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (NASB). Seek counsel from mature believers and remain open to how God may confirm His Word through them.

The Call to Respond in Faith

Listening to God is only the beginning. The true test comes when you hear His voice—when He calls you to step out in faith, to let go of fear, or to trust Him in uncertainty. Consider Noah, who obeyed God’s instructions to build an ark even when the world had never seen rain. Or Mary, who surrendered to God’s plan to bear the Messiah despite the cost to her reputation. Or the disciples, who left everything at Yeshua’s call to “Follow Me” (Matthew 4:19 NASB).

Each of these individuals not only heard God’s voice but responded with trust. They didn’t hesitate, delay, or make excuses. Their obedience brought them into alignment with God’s purposes and allowed them to experience His power in ways that changed history. God is calling you, too. Will you respond as they did—with faith, surrender, and obedience?

An Entreaty to the Reader

Beloved, this is your moment to press in. God is calling you to deeper intimacy, greater faith, and unwavering trust in Him. Quiet your heart, remove distractions, and ask Him to speak. Then, listen. He may whisper to your spirit, illuminate His Word, or nudge your heart through circumstances. However He chooses to speak, remain persistent in prayer. Some answers take time because of spiritual resistance, but do not let that discourage you. Keep asking, keep seeking, and keep believing.

And when He speaks, respond. Say, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.” Say, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” Say yes to His will, even if it requires stepping out in faith, letting go of your plans, or trusting Him in the unknown. The God who created you, who knows the number of hairs on your head, and who has prepared good works for you in advance (Ephesians 2:10 NASB) is calling you to a deeper walk with Him. Will you listen? Will you respond?

A Closing Prayer

Father, we come before You with hearts open and ready to hear Your voice. Teach us to be still, to quiet the noise around us, and to press into Your presence. Strengthen our faith so that we may persist in prayer, even when the answers seem delayed. Lord, when You speak, give us the courage to respond with obedience and trust, just as Samuel, Isaiah, Mary, and others did before us. Let our hearts echo their words: “Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.” Use us for Your glory, and lead us into a deeper relationship with You. In the name of Yeshua, Amen.

See Also

Current Events, Sin

Biblical Truth vs. DEI

What Does the Bible Say About Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)?

The cultural focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) often challenges Christians to discern how these concepts align—or conflict—with God’s Word. While DEI seeks to promote fairness and representation, the Bible offers a higher standard rooted in God’s justice, love, and truth. This perspective provides an insightful Biblical view on DEI.

Diversity: Unity in Christ, Not Division

DEI Definition: Celebrating differences in race, gender, culture, and identity, often making diversity an end goal.

Biblical Perspective: God created diversity to reflect His glory. Every person is made in His image (Genesis 1:27), and diversity is fully realized in the unity of Christ’s kingdom: “A great multitude… from every nation and all the tribes, peoples, and languages, standing before the throne.” (Revelation 7:9, NASB).

The Bible unites all people under Yeshua, breaking down barriers of division (Galatians 3:28). Unlike DEI, which risks prioritizing group identity, the biblical view calls for diversity to glorify God, not elevate differences over unity. Understanding this is crucial from a Biblical view on DEI.

Equity: God’s Justice, Not Equal Outcomes

DEI Definition: Addressing systemic inequality by redistributing resources to achieve equal results, often emphasizing group identity.

Biblical Perspective: God’s justice is impartial. “You shall not do injustice in judgment; you shall not show partiality to the poor nor give preference to the great.” (Leviticus 19:15, NASB). Fairness is grounded in God’s righteousness, rewarding personal responsibility: “If anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10, NASB).

The Bible rejects both favoritism and unjust redistribution. True equity values diligence, character, and accountability, reflecting God’s impartiality (Deuteronomy 10:17). These principles form part of a Biblical view on DEI.

Inclusion: Loving All, Upholding Truth

DEI Definition: Ensuring everyone feels valued, often affirming behaviors or lifestyles that conflict with biblical teachings.

Biblical Perspective: The Gospel is inclusive in calling all people to repentance and faith in Yeshua. Jesus loved sinners but commanded them to leave sin behind (John 8:11). True inclusion acknowledges every person’s worth while rejecting sin, as “the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7, NASB).

The biblical approach balances love for the sinner with God’s unchanging truth. “Each servant stands or falls to his own master.” (Romans 14:4, NASB). Therefore, the inclusion aspect is also informed by a Biblical view on DEI.

Conclusion: Justice Rooted in God’s Truth

While DEI initiatives often reflect cultural trends, biblical justice is unchanging. Diversity glorifies God’s creative design, equity upholds His fairness, and inclusion is rooted in love and truth. As believers, we are called to treat all people with dignity while standing firm on God’s standards from a Biblical view on DEI.

God alone is our Judge, and every person will answer to Him. Employers, leaders, and individuals must reflect His justice, love, and holiness in all decisions.

See Also