An effective fast is not about depriving ourselves for a few days and then going back to our old way of doing things, fasting is about a lifestyle change.

Like Jesus’ 40-day fast in the wilderness, this season of fasting can mark a transition into an entirely different dimension of living and ministry—a different lifestyle.

This will not be easy; it will be a shock to your system. But if it is any consolation for this difficult task, even Jesus had to be driven by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to go through his crucible of fasting (Mark 1:12). But oh the difference.

As you go through this day, honestly reflect on those lifestyle habits that gobble up huge swaths of your life—taking you away from God, family, church, ministry and personal growth.

• Prayer: Holy Spirit, what lifestyle changes do I need to make in order to have more time for God and to be more empowered to live a productive, joyful, and fulfilling walk of faith? Lead me and I will follow.

Luke 4:1 (NKJV)

Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness…