For When I'm Getting Lost

KEY VERSES:

• Matthew 6:16–18
• Matthew 4:1–4
• Luke 4:1–13
• Exodus 34:28
• Acts 13:2–3
• Acts 14:23
• 2 Samuel 12:16–23
• Jonah 3:5–10
• Nehemiah 1:3–4
• Ezra 8:21–23
• Luke 2:36–38

HIGHLIGHTS:

1. The cluttered table problem
   • Life piles on “quick fixes” that don’t truly fill us.
   • God has something better, but there’s no space at our table.
2. What fasting is (and isn’t)
   • Is: Choosing to let go of something (often food) to seek God with focus and dependence (Matthew 6:16–18).
   • Isn’t: A show, a diet, or a way to earn God’s love (Matthew 6:16–18).
   • Jesus assumes fasting as a normal rhythm: “When you fast…” (Matthew 6:16–18).
3. Jesus modeled it
   • Before public ministry, Jesus fasted and faced temptation; He answered lies with Scripture (Matthew 4:1–4; Luke 4:1–13).
4. Why God’s people fasted
   • Before big moves/decisions: Moses (Exodus 34:28); the early church set apart Barnabas and Saul (Acts 13:2–3; Acts 14:23).
   • In repentance: David (2 Samuel 12:16–23); Nineveh (Jonah 3:5–10).
   • For clarity and protection: Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1:3–4); Ezra (Ezra 8:21–23).
   • As worship: Anna’s ongoing prayer and fasting (Luke 2:36–38).
5. What fasting does in us
   • Clears distractions and noise so we can hear God.
   • Breaks unhealthy dependencies (sugar, caffeine, constant news, social media).
   • Builds humility, focus, and trust; leads to wiser decisions (Matthew 6:18).
6. How to fast (simple and sane)
   • Pick a time-bound fast (e.g., one meal, sunrise–sunset, or 24 hours) and replace that time with prayer and Scripture (Matthew 4:4).
   • Or choose a targeted fast (caffeine, social media, late-night TV) to reclaim attention for God.
   • Keep it private and joyful; don’t “perform” it (Matthew 6:16–18).
   • Health note: If you’re pregnant, diabetic, or have medical concerns, choose a non-food fast or consult your doctor first.
7. Practical focus while fasting
   • Pray for clarity on a decision (Acts 13:2–3).
   • Pray a repentance psalm (e.g., Psalm 51; see 2 Samuel 12 for David’s context).
   • Ask for protection and guidance (Ezra 8:21–23).
   • Worship and give thanks (Luke 2:36–38).

TALK ABOUT IT:

1. What “clutter” tends to fill your table—quick fixes that don’t really satisfy?
2. How does Jesus’ “when you fast” (Matthew 6:16–18) challenge your current rhythm?
3. Which biblical fast resonates with your season—big decision, repentance, clarity, protection, or worship?
4. What dependency might God be inviting you to loosen (food, sugar, caffeine, screens, approval, news)?
5. If you tried a short fast, what did it reveal about your habits—and about your hunger for God?
6. How can you keep fasting private and joyful rather than performative?
7. What Scripture will you anchor to during your next fast (e.g., Matthew 4:4; Ezra 8:21–23; Nehemiah 1:3–4)?

APPLY IT:

• Choose one fast this week: skip one meal or sunset-to-sunset, and use that time to pray through Matthew 6:16–18 and Matthew 4:1–4.
• Pick a non-food fast for 3–7 days: social media, YouTube after 8pm, sugary drinks, or the 24/7 news cycle.
• Make a short “why I’m fasting” list (clarity, repentance, wisdom for a decision) and keep it visible.
• Pair fasting with Scripture: read Luke 4:1–13; Psalm 51; or a Gospel chapter during mealtimes.
• When hunger pangs or “reach-for-the-phone” urges hit, pray: “God, I want You more than this.”
• End your fast with gratitude—journal one way God met you or one next step you’re clear on.