Each year as this time draws close an excitement bubbles inside me. Not for what I will deny myself, but for what God will do in me. I used to think I was an amazing this or that, but I have learned through much pain I am truly nothing without the grace of God.

Paul is one of my favorite writers of the New Testament. Paul knew he had to deny himself to follow Christ. I have to let go of my own ideas, thoughts, and preconceptions to let God work in me.

When I hold onto what I know to be true, God cannot show me who he really is. I need to relinquish control of every area of my life to God and fasting helps me do this. If I fast and don’t spend time with God then I am only hungry and cranky. Prayer and fasting need to be paired together. Fasting helps me to deny myself, while prayer is conversation with God. Being still and listening is part of conversing with God. If I am always talking he can’t say anything to me because I won’t be quiet long enough to listen.

I plan on spending time being still and quiet over the next 21 days. I hope you find time to be still and know that he is still God.