Day 7: Prepare to Fight - The Battle Ahead

Today, we are going to talk about an essential part of the Christian life that we often overlook: spiritual warfare. Every believer is engaged in a battle. A battle not of flesh and blood, but of the unseen spiritual realm. Ephesians 6:12 tells us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

 

This battle is real. It’s relentless. And while the enemy may try to deceive us, intimidate us, or wear us down, we are not left defenseless. In fact, we have been equipped with everything we need to stand firm and fight. But here’s the truth: Victory does not come passively. It comes when we are armed with the power of God’s Word, the discipline of prayer, and the strength of fasting.

 

We will prepare for the battle ahead, learn how to fight, what weapons we have at our disposal, and why fasting is one of the most powerful tools in our spiritual arsenal. So, if you’re ready to take your stand, let’s dive in.

 

1. The Battle is Real: Spiritual Warfare and the Role of Faith

 

The reality is, we all face battles. It may be in our minds, in our hearts, in our relationships, or in our bodies. Some of us are battling with addiction, fear, depression, or anger. Others face relational struggles or financial burdens. Whatever the battle may be, it is important to remember: This is a spiritual battle.

 

In Exodus 17:8-16, we read about the Israelites’ battle with the Amalekites. Moses raised the “rod of God” above his head, symbolizing God’s authority and power. As long as Moses kept his arms raised, the Israelites were victorious. But when he lowered his arms, the Amalekites began to win. The message is clear: When we align ourselves with God’s power and keep our eyes on Him, we prevail.

 

However, spiritual battles are not easily won by human strength alone. We must recognize that God’s power is at work through us when we act in faith, with prayer, and through fasting. These are the weapons we must wield to win.

 

2. Faith, Prayer, and Fasting: The Weapons for Victory

 

In Matthew 17:20-21, Jesus teaches His disciples about the power of faith. He says, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” But notice what Jesus says right after that: “But this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”

 

Fasting is often overlooked, but it is powerful. It is a way of denying the flesh, humbling ourselves before God, and focusing entirely on Him. Fasting is not about punishing the body, but positioning the spirit. It draws us closer to God, sharpening our spiritual sensitivity and increasing our capacity to hear His voice and receive His strength.

 

There are seasons in our lives where we face resistance that is stronger than usual. Jesus Himself knew this and emphasized that certain strongholds—whether they be addiction, fear, depression, or something else—require a deeper level of commitment and discipline. Fasting and prayer are how we push back the darkness and reclaim what has been taken from us.

 

3 The Power of Fasting in Overcoming Strongholds

 

Let me share something personal with you. For years I struggled with addiction. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t break free. The battle felt hopeless, and I had almost given up. But God began to reveal to me the importance of fasting. Through prayer and fasting, I sought God’s face, and slowly—but surely—I began to experience freedom. The chains that had bound me for so long started to fall away.

 

Why does fasting work so powerfully? Fasting shifts our focus from our circumstances to our Savior. It denies the flesh to strengthen the spirit. It’s a way of saying, “God, I want You more than I want anything else. I trust You more than I trust my flesh.” And in that moment, God releases His power into our lives.

 

In Isaiah 58:6, God speaks about the fast He has chosen: “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?” This is the heart of fasting—it is about breaking chains and finding freedom in God’s presence.

 

4. Preparing for Battle: How to Equip Yourself

 

1. Arm Yourself with the Word of God

The Bible is our sword. Ephesians 6:17 calls it “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” Every battle is fought with truth. We cannot stand firm unless we are immersed in the Word. Start each day by reading Scripture, meditating on it, and declaring it over your life. Let the Word be the first thing you turn to when the enemy attacks.

 

2. Strengthen Your Prayer Life

Prayer is the bridge that connects us to God’s power. Matthew 21:22 says, “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Prayer is not just about asking for things, it’s about aligning our hearts with God’s will. It’s about strengthening our spirit and seeking His face.

 

3. Embrace the Discipline of Fasting

Fasting is an act of obedience, an opportunity to humble ourselves before God and say, “I need You more than I need anything else.” Whether it’s food, social media, or something else that has a grip on you, choose to fast in order to break free and grow closer to God. Fasting is an essential part of spiritual warfare, and it is through this discipline that we experience breakthrough.

 

5. Preparation for a 24-Hour Fast

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Here’s a guide to help you prepare and make the most of this sacred time.

 

Choosing Your Day: Select a day that works best for you, considering your schedule and commitments. Ensure it’s a day when you can dedicate time for prayer, reflection, and engaging with the Word.

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Preparation Steps

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1. Pray for Guidance: Before you start your fast, take a moment to pray for God’s guidance. Ask Him to reveal any strongholds in your life that need to be addressed and to give you strength during the fast.

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2. Set Your Intentions: Write down your reasons for fasting. What are you hoping to achieve by denying yourself food and water? This could be a breakthrough in a specific area of your life, healing, or deeper intimacy with God.

 

3. Prepare Spiritually. Gather your Bible, a journal, and any devotional materials that inspire you. Consider selecting verses or passages that resonate with your current situation or that speak to faith and perseverance (e.g., Matthew 17:20, Philippians 4:13).

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4. Stay Hydrated Before You Start: The day before your fast, drink plenty of water to ensure your body is hydrated. This will help prepare you for the 24 hours without any food or water.

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5. Plan Your Schedule: Choose the hours for the fast. Many people find it effective to start in the evening and break the fast the following evening. This allows you to sleep through a portion of the fasting period.

 

6. Invite God’s Presence: As you begin your fast, set a specific time during the day to pray—consider morning, midday, and evening. Use this time to lift your strongholds to the Lord and seek His intervention in your life.

 

During the Fast:

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-  Prayer: Spend time in prayer, seeking God earnestly. Use your journal to jot down your thoughts, prayers, and any revelations you receive throughout the day.

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- Scripture Meditation: Read and meditate on the Word of God. Reflect on verses that encourage fasting, faith, and God’s promises. Allow God’s Word to nourish your spirit in place of physical food.

 

- Worship: If possible, play worship music in the background to keep your heart and mind focused on God.

 

- Stay Focused on Your Intentions: Remember your purpose for fasting. Each time hunger or thirst strikes, use it as a reminder to pray and seek God’s presence.

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Breaking the Fast:

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After 24 hours, when you’re ready to break your fast, do so gently. Start with small, light foods and plenty of water. Take a moment to thank God for the experience and the strength He provided during your fast.

 

Post-Fast Reflection: Consider journaling about your experience. What did you feel during the fast? Were there any breakthroughs or revelations? How did your perspective change?

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Remember, fasting is not just a physical activity; it’s a spiritual one aimed at drawing closer to God and allowing Him to move in your life. Trust that He hears your prayers and is capable of moving mountains! 

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Conclusion: Victory is Ours Through Christ

 

As we prepare for the battles ahead, we can take comfort in the fact that we are not fighting alone. 1 John 4:4 reminds us, “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” Satan may try to intimidate us, but we have the victory in Christ. We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37).

 

The battle will not be easy. The enemy will try to discourage us, distract us, and deceive us. But when we stand firm in our faith, armed with God’s Word, committed to prayer, and willing to fast, we will overcome. Victory is promised, but we must choose to fight.

 

Prayer:

 

Heavenly Father,

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I come before You today acknowledging that we are in a battle. The enemy is real, and his schemes are relentless, but I thank You that You have not left me defenseless. Lord, equip me with Your full armor. Help me to stand firm in Your mighty power. Teach me to wield the sword of the Spirit, Your Word, with confidence and authority. Strengthen my prayer life and deepen my desire to seek You above all else. As I fast, let it be a time of spiritual renewal, a time to surrender myself fully to You. Break the chains of addiction, fear, and all strongholds that hold me captive.

 

I believe that through prayer, fasting, and unwavering faith, I can overcome every obstacle. Lord, give me the courage to prepare for the battles ahead, and to trust that You are with me every step of the way. I surrender my battles to You, knowing that the victory belongs to You.

 

In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.