“A hand touched me and set me trembling on my hands and knees. He said, ‘Daniel, you who are highly esteemed, consider carefully the words I am about to speak to you and stand up, for I have now been sent to you.’ And when he said this to me, I stood up trembling. Then he continued, ‘Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.’” Daniel 10:10-12
Physical obedience brings spiritual release. In the modern church, we have reduced everything down to feelings and intellect while placing very little priority on physical actions. If we “feel humble,” then we see no need to get down on our knees and bow before the Lord in prayer. If we love the Lord “on the inside,” then we don’t think we have to stand on our feet or raise our hands in worship. Much is taught about the internal condition of faith but little about the physical manifestation of faith.
If you told your spouse that you love him or her on the inside but never showed it with your actions, they probably wouldn’t believe you. Sometimes, God desires a physical act of obedience before He will release a spiritual reward. Fasting is one of those acts of obedience.
Jesus fasted for 40 days and afterward saw the power of God show up in miraculous ways. There is a connection between the physical action here and the spiritual blessings released in Heaven. When we pray, and fast, God releases favor, help, guidance, protection, healings, and miracles.
There will be strategic moments in your life when God challenges you to partner with Him in prayer and fasting. This is not a demand but rather an invitation. You don’t have to fast, and you won’t be “saved more” if you fast. Fasting is an opportunity for you to draw closer to God.
In the Old Testament, the physical response of Moses’ raised hands was recognized by Heaven, and the battle was won. God paid attention when the lepers fell to their knees, asking for help. God was pleased when he saw King David dancing before Him with all of his might. His leaping and dancing were recognized in Heaven. God sees those who honor and obey Him with their physical actions.
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