
Prayer and Fasting: A Call for Today’s Church
Throughout the Bible, we see countless examples of prayer and fasting as powerful spiritual disciplines that draw God’s people closer to Him. From the Old Testament to the New, prayer and fasting were instrumental in times of crisis, preparation, and spiritual renewal. In an increasingly turbulent world, this practice is more relevant now than ever for the body of Christ.
Today, we find ourselves in a unique season. As darkness looms and challenges arise on every side, the Church must remember that our greatest weapon is not found in human strength but in seeking the face of God.
The Power of Prayer and Fasting in Scripture
Prayer and fasting are not new practices; they are woven into the story of God’s people from the beginning. When we examine Scripture, we see that these spiritual disciplines consistently move the heart of God, unlock divine intervention, and lead to incredible breakthroughs.
1. Fasting and Deliverance
In the Old Testament, when King Jehoshaphat faced an overwhelming army, he called the people of Judah to pray and fast. Jehoshaphat understood their battle was beyond human capability, so he sought God’s intervention. 2 Chronicles 20:3-4 says, “Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah. The people of Judah came together to seek help from the Lord.” God miraculously delivered them through their obedience, turning what seemed like an impending defeat into a divine victory.
2. Fasting and Repentance
In the book of Jonah, we see an entire city saved from destruction because they humbled themselves through fasting and prayer. When Jonah warned the city of Nineveh of God’s impending judgment, the people responded with deep repentance, fasting, and crying out to God. Jonah 3:5 says, “The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.” God’s compassion flowed in response to their humility, sparing the city from destruction.
3. Fasting and Spiritual Power
In the New Testament, Jesus set an example of prayer and fasting before He began His ministry. After fasting for forty days in the wilderness, He emerged empowered by the Holy Spirit. In Matthew 4:1-11, we see that Jesus defeated the temptations of Satan during this period of fasting, preparing Him for the miraculous ministry that would follow. Furthermore, in Mark 9:29, Jesus taught His disciples that certain spiritual battles could only be won through “prayer and fasting.”
Each of these stories demonstrates that fasting and prayer are powerful tools that have the potential to shift the course of history, redeem nations, and ultimately realign our hearts with God’s.
Why Prayer and Fasting are Essential Today
As we look at our world, we see moral decline, wars, natural disasters, and spiritual darkness in ways we have never seen before. In times like these, we, as believers, are called to intercede. Our role as the body of Christ is not to remain passive or apathetic but to stand in the gap for our families, communities, and nations. We align ourselves with God’s will through prayer and fasting, bringing heaven to earth.
The truth is that revival and transformation in our world will not come from political agendas, social programs, or worldly solutions. It will come from the Church humbling itself before God and committing to fervent prayer and fasting. In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God says, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Fasting is not about self-deprivation but about positioning ourselves to hear God’s voice more clearly. It’s about setting aside distractions to focus on God, allowing Him to mold, transform, and work through us. As believers, we live in pivotal times, and we have a unique call to rise up in faith. We are called to be a people who do not just attend Church on Sundays but are actively engaged in the spiritual battles around us. Prayer and fasting equip us to be warriors for God’s kingdom, standing firm in faith and ready to fight for God’s will on earth.

The Empowered by Prayer Retreat: An Invitation to Seek God Together
In response to this call, we are hosting the Empowered Prayer retreat from January 12th to 15th, 2025, at the Eldorado Resort in Kelowna. This three-night retreat is designed to educate, equip, and empower believers to embrace the disciplines of prayer and fasting with renewed passion and understanding. Whether you’re a seasoned intercessor or new to these practices, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to go deeper in your faith, grow in spiritual maturity, and connect with others who share your heart for God’s kingdom.
Throughout this retreat, we’ll engage in:
- Transformative Teachings: We’ll learn about effective prayer, spiritual warfare, and the role of fasting in breaking strongholds and ushering in God’s presence. You’ll gain biblical insight and practical tools to apply in your personal life.
- Worship and Prayer Sessions: We will enter into powerful times of worship and prayer, seeking God’s presence and aligning ourselves with His will. In unity, we’ll raise our voices to intercede for our families, communities, and world.
- Fasting for Breakthrough: We will dedicate time to fasting, asking God to cleanse and renew us and break down barriers holding us back from fully walking in His calling.
- Fellowship and Connection: You’ll have the chance to connect deeply with other believers passionate about prayer and fasting. As we share meals, stories, and prayers, we’ll build a community that supports and encourages one another.
Why This Retreat? Why Now?
Our world is at a tipping point. More than ever, the Church is called to be a light in the darkness and to stand firm in truth. We believe God is preparing His people for something significant, and we want to be ready to partner with Him. This retreat is a sacred space for you to step away from the noise of everyday life, seek God with all your heart, and experience the renewing of the Holy Spirit.
The question isn’t whether God will move. The question is: Will we, as His people, answer the call? Will we be willing to pay the price through prayer and fasting, to see His will done on earth as it is in heaven?
Join Us for a Life-Changing Experience
If you feel a stirring in your heart, a hunger to see God move in your life and the world around you, this retreat is for you. This is an invitation to come and encounter God in a powerful way, to be equipped, empowered, and refreshed. Together, let’s commit to prayer and fasting, believing that God will do a mighty work in our midst.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of something greater, to stand with other believers and press into the heart of God. Register today for the Empowered Prayer retreat, and prepare yourself for a time of deep spiritual growth, personal transformation, and renewed purpose.
Let’s answer God’s call together. Will you join us?