Wells & Wineskins (Part 3): What Could Happen When We Practice Fasting?
TO START: Today we conclude the third of five mini sermon series focused on the rhythms that cultivate a Spirit-filled and Spirit-led life. In this final message, we unpack the potential fruit that can grow from integrating the practice of fasting into one’s life with God.
TO READ: Esther 4:12-16
TO DISCUSS:
(1.) When’s a time in your life when it felt like everyone needed to jump in to help with a situation or things were going to fall apart?
(2.) Have you known someone who regularly practiced fasting? What stood out to you about them?
(3.) In the message, we explored how fasting can deepen our love for God through humility about ourselves, greater endurance through the Spirit, and a deeper longing for God’s presence. Which of these do you perceive God inviting you to lean into more deeply in this season of your life?
(4.) We also discussed how fasting can grow our love for others by giving direction for decisions, standing in solidarity with those who are under-resourced, and praying for spiritual breakthrough. Which of these do you perceive God inviting you to lean into more deeply in this season of your life?
(5.) When you think about Mordecai’s words to Esther in 4:14, “Who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”, is there a person, situation, or place that moves you to fast and pray?
TO CLOSE/TO PRAY:
This week, to end group time, we invite you to create space to dwell together with God and spend some time in silent prayer wondering the ways God is desiring for you to deepen your love for God and grow your love for others through fasting. Maybe consider thinking about these two questions in prayer:
“In what ways have I been holding back love—from you or from others?”
“How is God desiring for me to deepen my relationship with Him through fasting in the days and weeks to come?”