“Revival can’t be worked up, it has to be prayed down.”
This is one of my favorite reminders when it comes to seeking God in deeper ways. We can’t manufacture revival by our own strength...it starts in our hearts, just like David prayed in Psalm 51:10 (ESV), “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”
Fasting is one of the ways we can intentionally step back from everyday distractions so that our hearts are more receptive to God’s voice. Hebrews 12:1 (ESV) tells us, “Let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely.” A “weight” doesn’t always have to be a sin, sometimes it’s just something that holds us back or dulls our spiritual senses. Fasting helps us identify and remove those weights, whether it's social media, certain foods, or anything else that can trip us up.
So, if you’re feeling led to fast with us for these 21 days (or at any time, really), here are a few different ways you can consider setting aside the weights:
1. Social Media Fasts
Let’s be honest: scrolling through endless feeds can eat up hours of our day, sometimes leaving us drained or discouraged.
What it looks like: Deleting certain apps, logging out of social platforms, or reducing screen time for a set period.
Spiritual benefit: Instead of scrolling, fill that time with prayer, Scripture reading, or simply being quiet before the Lord.
2. Different Food Fasts
There’s a long biblical tradition of fasting from food in some way—just look at Daniel (Daniel 1:12; 10:3) or Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1–2).
Types of Food Fasts:
Full Fast: Consuming only water (typically not recommended for extended periods without medical supervision).
Daniel Fast: Focusing on fruits, vegetables, and water, avoiding meats, sweets, and rich foods.
Partial Fast (Time-Specific): Skipping a meal or two and eating only within certain hours of the day.
Spiritual benefit: Physical hunger can remind us to pray and depend on God, aligning our hearts with His.
3. Giving Up Other “Weights”
Maybe food or social media aren’t the main things consuming your time or dulling your spiritual senses.
Alcohol, Sweets, or Caffeine: If you notice these have a significant hold on you, fasting from them can be a powerful step toward freedom.
Entertainment or Hobbies: It could be taking a break from TV, gaming, or even certain reading material.
Any Activity That’s Become a Distraction: Pray and ask the Lord to show you if there’s something specific that’s become more of a “weight” than a life-giving gift.
How to Decide
Pray First
Simply ask, “Lord, what would You have me set aside so I can focus on You?” Trust that He’ll guide your choice.
Start Simple
Don’t feel the need to take on an extreme fast right away. Begin with something you know you can sustain while still feeling the stretch of stepping out in faith.
Plan Ahead
If you’re fasting from social media, remove the apps in advance. If you’re doing a food fast, stock up on whatever you’ll need.
Stay Connected
Fasting doesn’t mean living on a desert island. Stay in fellowship—share what you’re learning with a trusted friend or small group for encouragement and accountability.
Revival Starts in Us
Remember, the goal isn’t to impress God or other people. Fasting is about removing distractions so we can love God more deeply, hear His voice more clearly, and experience renewed intimacy with Him. Let’s approach this 21-day fast with expectant hearts, believing that God will do a new work in us from the inside out. Let’s lay down whatever might be weighing us down. Let’s ask God to revive our hearts as we seek Him. I’m excited to see how He moves among us in the days ahead!
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If you have any questions or need more resources on fasting, feel free to reach out or check out the weekly devotionals we’ll be sending. We’re in this together, trusting the Lord to work powerfully in each of our hearts.
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