2024 21 Day Fast Devotional — Day 3: Fasting Is An Act of Humility

“Then I proclaimed a fast at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God to seek from Him a safe journey for us, our little ones, and all our possessions…So we fasted and sought our God concerning this matter,  and He listened to our entreaty” Ezra 8:21,23 (NASB).

Ezra, who was a priest, led the children of Israel exiled in Babylon back to their homeland. In preparation for the long journey home he called them to a fast “that we may humble ourselves before God to seek from Him a safe journey…”

Fasting is an act of humility. Humility is an acknowledgment of utter dependence on God. The humble heart says “without God I can do nothing” and cries “I need Thee, oh I need Thee; every hour I need Thee.” Whether it’s helping them to tie shoelaces, navigate stairs, climb a tree or spell a word, as parents we take delight in helping our children. Even more so, God is pleased when we express our need for Him and is delighted to help us. 

As the children of Israel waited at the Ahava river they understood they needed God’s help to cross the river safely and have a successful journey. Not only did they fast, they sought the Lord; they prayed. Their fasting was coupled with prayer. Fasting and prayer go hand in hand. God who is high and exalted, who lives forever, whose name is holy promises to dwell with the humble of heart (Isaiah 57:15). God also promises to be good to those who wait for Him, those who seek Him (Lamentations 3:25) Fasting and prayer-what a winning combination!

As you fast know that the Lord is pleased with the humility it produces in your life and His ear is open to your prayers.

Prayer and Reflection: 

Father as I humble myself before you with fasting please be near to me. Just as you listened to the entreaty of the children of Israel during their journey from Babylon and granted them safe passage, I believe you will do the same for me and grant me success.