At the beginning of every year, we face an important question—not simply what will this year bring, but who will we become as we walk through it? Scripture shows us that when God’s people stand at moments of transition, they do not rush ahead. They pause. They pray. They fast. They seek the Lord.
That is why Redeemer Baptist Church is calling our church family to 21 Days of Prayer, Fasting, and Seeking. This journey is not about earning God’s favor or proving spiritual maturity. Through Christ, we are already fully loved. Fasting simply creates space—space to listen, to repent, to hunger for God, and to realign our hearts with His purposes.
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” (Matthew 5:6)
Why Prayer and Fasting?
Fasting is the voluntary laying down of something good so that we can more clearly receive Someone greater. Most often that means food, but fasting can also involve stepping away from digital noise, entertainment, or distractions that compete for our attention. At its core, fasting is about desire, not deprivation. It is a way of saying, “Jesus, I want You more than what usually fills my time or satisfies my appetites.”
Throughout Scripture, fasting accompanies moments of repentance, clarity, intercession, and direction. Moses fasted in God’s presence. Esther fasted before risking her life. Jesus fasted before beginning His public ministry. The early church fasted when seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. And Jesus Himself said, “When you fast…”—not if.
What This 21-Day Guide Includes
This prayer and fasting guide was written to be accessible, pastoral, and deeply rooted in Scripture. Inside the full document, you will find:
- A simple, biblical explanation of fasting
- Wisdom and safety guidance for choosing a fast
- Practical encouragement for beginning and sustaining a rhythm of prayer
- 21 daily devotions, each including:
- A Scripture reading
- A short reflection
- Guided questions
- A written prayer
The devotions are organized intentionally, moving from awareness and surrender to identity, obedience, and mission. This progression helps shape not only our habits, but our hearts.
HERE IS A SAMPLE:
KNOWING CHRIST
“Christianity is that God thought all men worth the sacrifice of His Son.” — William Barclay
READ
Philippians 3:7–10 But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ… that I may know him and the power of his resurrection.
REFLECT
Paul had all the credentials yet calls them loss compared to knowing Christ. Christianity is not just knowing about Jesus—it is knowing Him personally. There is a massive difference. As you fast, ask God to rescue you from surface-level faith. Pray that this year would be about truly knowing Christ, His heart, His ways, His voice—and hearing His direction for your life.
QUESTIONS
- WHAT is the difference between knowing about Jesus and knowing Jesus?
- WHY do we settle for secondhand religion instead of firsthand relationship?
PRAY
Jesus, I want to know You more than comfort. Renew my first love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Who Is This For?
This journey is for everyone:
- Those who have never fasted before
- Those returning to prayer after a dry season
- Families, small groups, and individuals
- Anyone longing for renewal, clarity, healing, or deeper intimacy with Christ
There is no pressure to fast perfectly. God is far more interested in a sincere, humble heart than in performance. If you stumble, you simply return. Grace is part of the process.
You are welcome to download it, print it, or use it digitally throughout the three weeks.
This guide is meant to be used slowly. Don’t rush through it. Let hunger become prayer. Let silence create space. Let Scripture speak. And trust that the God who invites you to seek Him promises that you will find Him.
P.S. Feel free to share this link with friends or family who may want to join you in prayer and fasting. We believe God does powerful work when His people seek Him together.
