Fasting goes beyond skipping meals—it’s a profound spiritual practice that aligns us with God’s will and helps us put on the garment of praise. It’s a deliberate surrender of the flesh to strengthen the spirit. While it might feel like mourning as our physical cravings battle for attention, fasting opens the door to spiritual clarity, growth, and blessings. As Jesus taught in Matthew 9:14-15, fasting isn’t optional. He said, “When you fast…” signaling its importance. Let’s uncover how fasting moves us from mourning into a life full of divine empowerment and joy.

When we talk about living a Christ-focused, Spirit-led life, Galatians 2:20 draws us to a key truth: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” This verse establishes the foundation for a life centered on surrender, guided by the Spirit, and committed to God’s greater plan.

How do we truly reflect this Christ-centered life in our day-to-day existence? Let’s explore what it means to live faithfully, recognizing God’s call to grow spiritually and lead others toward Him.

The natural world offers profound spiritual lessons if we’re open to seeing them. Two birds, the turkey buzzard and the eagle, provide vivid examples of how we can choose to live. While one scavenges on decay, settling for what’s easy, the other soars to unmatched heights, overcoming storms and pursuing purpose. Let’s explore how these creatures can help us understand faith, growth, and God’s plans in the coming year.

In a world full of distractions and competing voices, understanding how to hear God’s voice becomes essential for anyone seeking spiritual clarity. Hearing God’s voice isn’t just about receiving messages; it’s about finding direction, confirming decisions, and aligning our hearts with His will. The story of Samuel offers profound insights into this spiritual practice, showing how we too can learn to recognize God’s call.

Thanksgiving is a time to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the many blessings in our lives. It’s a moment to celebrate the joys of fellowship, share testimonies of God’s goodness, and remember the small but important ways He’s shown Himself faithful. During a recent message, the use of birds as metaphors for life, faith, and fellowship brought unique insights into God’s care for us. The playful exploration of turkeys and sparrows offered profound lessons in gratitude, trust, and community.

At the heart of the Christian faith lies the practice of seeking God wholeheartedly. Fasting—combined with prayer—is one of the most profound ways to draw near to Him, align with His will, and experience breakthrough. At the dawn of this New Year, many believers, inspired by Isaiah 58, are stepping into a season of fasting, unlocking freedom, grace, and divine provision.