Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Our relationship with God is meant to be closer than our relationship with our spouse or closest friend. And we deepen our relationship as we pursue Him through prayer and fasting. Fasting disconnects us from the world so that we can connect with God through prayer.

In order to deepen our relationship with God, we need to disconnect from the temptations, lies, and snares of the world. Too often we allow our bodies and emotions to drive us, but as believers we should be driven by the Holy Spirit who lives in our hearts. In 1 Corinthians 9:27 ESV Paul said, “But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.” Paul disciplined his body so that he could turn away from the worldly things that kept him from fully pursuing God. As believers, we should not be led by our earthly desires or bodies, but by the Spirit of God.

Fasting allows us to disconnect from the things that hold us back from God, and prayer deepens our connection to Him. When we deny our bodies through fasting and instead seek God through prayer, our hearts are drawn closer to His. Our connection grows when we spend time in fellowship with God through prayer, meditating on the Word, and listening to His voice.

The Bible tells us to pray without ceasing because God wants a constant connection to your heart. He doesn’t just want 20 minutes in the morning, He wants to walk with you in fellowship in every part of your life.

Rejoice, pray without ceasing, and give thanks!