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The intention of these kingdom fasts is to build solidarity among those who are fasting as they remind their bodies (flesh) that their spirits are in charge – and that both body and spirit are to be under the Lordship of Jesus. The hunger or difficulty of going without a good thing serves us to long for the most rewarding and best of all things and all persons – Jesus Himself.

I love books.

While I was growing up, my family members could hardly get me to speak once I started on a good book. I have been known to be silent for an entire 3-hour road trip; only to then suddenly burst into loud, racking sobs when I found out the beloved heroine of my book had died. Thankfully, my parents did not think me emotionally unstable, although in that instance I did have some explaining to do after composing myself.

In spite of this great love for the written word, I still find that I struggle with setting aside time to read the Word of God. Sometimes I would rather read the new novel that I purchased on my Kindle. Or other times I would rather read what someone else is learning from the Bible, instead of diving in myself. I find myself quoting some else’s profound words rather than leaning on the truth of Scripture.

I think there are seasons in our life when God calls us to saturate ourselves in His Word even more than others.

That’s why, during the month of December, we are fasting reading.

To fast reading means to give up any books, magazines, blogs, news or other inspirational literature other than Scripture or what is required for work, school or ministry.

Feast on the Word

To fast the reading of other things, allows us to feast on extra reading and memorization of Scripture. This helps to prepare our spirits to hear clearly what God is saying to us.

I find December to be a perfect time to do this type of a fast.

It is a great opportunity to ask God what it is that He would like to speak to you about the upcoming year.

Perhaps He will lead you to a specific verse or passage of Scripture that He wants you to focus on or memorize.

One of my favorite verses is Psalm 119:130, “The entrance of Your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.”

Make room for His words this month and allow His light to shine brightly in your lives.

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