Working to build a relationship with someone takes time and effort and our relationship with God is no different. We want God to be a part of our lives, but doesn’t it seem like we have enough time! There’s always something to distract us. So how do we go about more creating space for God in our lives?

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MESSAGE NOTES

[Acts 13:1-3]

“Among the prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch of Syria were Barnabas, Simeon (called “the black man”), Lucius (from Cyrene), Manaen (the childhood companion of King Herod Antipas), and Saul. One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way.”

 

 

  1. They Fasted in Community

 

 

[Matthew 6:16]

“And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled SO PEOPLE WILL ADMIRE THEM for their fasting…”

 

“The sin is not in others knowing we fast but fasting so others will know.”

 

What if we, as a church, began to regularly pray/fast for New England to turn their hearts back toward God? If God were to answer that prayer, which church do you think he’d call to do it?

 

2. They Fasted Regularly

 

[Acts 13:2]

“One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said…”

 

 

Why is it that we see fasting as something we only do when we’re desperate? Wouldn’t it be a good thing if we were all a LITTLE more desperate for a work of God in our lives? How often do you want God to intervene in your life? Maybe that’s how often we should fast.

 

 

3. They Fasted to Hear God’s Voice

 

[Acts 13:2]

“One day as these men were WORSHIPING, THE LORD AND FASTING, THE HOLY SPIRIT SAID…”

 

 

[1 Kings 19:11-13]

“Go out and stand before me on the mountain,” the Lord told him. And as Elijah stood there, the Lord passed by, and a mighty windstorm hit the mountain. It was such a terrible blast that the rocks were torn loose, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake there was a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire there was the sound of a gentle whisper.  When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And a voice said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

 

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Application Questions

1. What stood out to you from this message and why?

2. What is one thing God is telling you to START doing because of this message?

3. What is one thing God is telling you to STOP doing because of this message?

4. How will this message change how you act at home, work and in the your relationships?