The Transformative Power of a Word Fast
As I reflect on my spiritual journey, I’m reminded of the countless times God has humbled me, bringing me to my knees over the attitudes and words that flow from my mouth. It’s a struggle many of us face, and one that requires intentional effort to overcome.
The Biblical Basis for a Word Fast
In the Hebrew language, the word “fast” literally means “to cover the mouth.” Fasting from negative words can be a powerful way to discipline our tongues and align our hearts with God’s. In Isaiah 58, we’re given a blueprint for true fasting, which includes refraining from wicked words and pointing fingers in judgment. The promise is clear: when we choose to speak life, we’ll experience great blessings.
My Personal Journey
I’ll never forget the first time God led me to embark on a 40-day fast from negative, critical, judgmental, and complaining words. It was one of the most challenging experiences of my Christian life. But as I soon discovered, the problem wasn’t my mouth – it was my heart. Proverbs 4:23 reminds us that our heart is the wellspring of life, and it’s there that we must focus our attention.
Confronting Pride and Humility
About two weeks into my fast, I faced a difficult situation at a store. As I reacted with frustration, God swiftly corrected me, revealing the pride and attitude that lay hidden in my heart. It was a painful but necessary revelation, one that echoed the cry of Isaiah: “Woe is me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips…” (Isaiah 6:5). In that moment, I knew I needed God to purify my heart and bring me low.
The Fruit of a Word Fast
As I persevered through the fast, I began to experience a profound shift in my heart. God softened and sweetened my spirit, and I became more sensitive to His gentle corrections. I felt like a dog in a yard with an invisible electric fence – every time I opened my mouth to speak negatively, I received a loving zap from my Father. During that season, I was amazed by the Scriptural insights God revealed to me, and I began to live with a heart of gratitude, thankful for the great and small ways God touched my life.
The Choice Between Thankfulness and Negativity
Recently, I was reminded of the stark contrast between thankfulness and negativity. As Paul wrote, “And do not grumble, as some of them did and were killed by the destroyer” (1 Corinthians 10:10). This verse highlights the choice we all face: will we choose to cultivate a heart of thankfulness, or will we side with destruction? I encourage you to ask God if He’s leading you to embark on a word fast. You may be amazed at the transformation that takes place in your life, and in the lives of those around you.
Leave a Reply