What is a good prayer to start a fast?

Embarking on a spiritual fast is a profound and transformative practice that has been observed by Christians for centuries. It is a time of drawing closer to God, seeking His presence, and aligning one's heart with His will. As you prepare to begin a fast, it is essential to ground yourself in prayer, seeking God's guidance, strength, and clarity. The prayer that initiates your fast sets the tone for the entire period of fasting and consecration. Below is an example of a prayer to start your fast, woven with scriptural references and heartfelt petitions.

Heavenly Father,

I come before You today with a heart full of reverence and humility, ready to embark on this journey of fasting. Your Word tells us that when we seek You with all our heart, we will find You (Jeremiah 29:13). As I begin this fast, I seek to draw nearer to You, to hear Your voice more clearly, and to experience Your presence more profoundly.

Lord, I acknowledge that fasting is not merely an act of abstaining from food or other pleasures, but a sacred practice that deepens my relationship with You. Jesus, You taught us that "man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). I desire to feast on Your Word and to be sustained by Your Spirit throughout this fast.

Father, I ask for Your strength and guidance as I commit to this period of fasting. I know that in my own strength, I am weak, but Your power is made perfect in my weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Help me to rely on Your strength and not my own, to trust in Your provision, and to remain steadfast in my commitment.

Lord, search my heart and reveal any areas of sin or disobedience that may hinder my prayers and my relationship with You (Psalm 139:23-24). I confess my sins before You and ask for Your forgiveness. Cleanse me and purify my heart, so that I may approach You with clean hands and a pure heart (Psalm 24:3-4).

As I fast, I pray for a deeper understanding of Your will and purpose for my life. Grant me wisdom and discernment to know Your ways and to walk in them (James 1:5). Open my eyes to see the beauty of Your holiness and the depth of Your love. May this time of fasting be a season of spiritual renewal and transformation.

Lord, I lift up my needs and the needs of others before You. I pray for healing, provision, and breakthrough in areas where there is lack or struggle. Your Word promises that You will supply all our needs according to Your riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19). I trust in Your faithfulness and provision.

Father, I pray for a spirit of humility and repentance during this fast. Help me to humble myself before You, acknowledging my dependence on You for everything. May this fast be a time of seeking Your face and turning away from anything that distracts me from You (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Lord, I pray for a deeper intimacy with You. Draw me closer to Your heart and reveal more of Yourself to me. As I spend time in prayer, worship, and meditation on Your Word, may I experience the fullness of Your presence and the joy of communion with You (Psalm 16:11).

Jesus, You are my example and my inspiration. Just as You fasted and prayed in the wilderness, I commit this time to seek the Father with the same fervor and dedication (Matthew 4:1-2). Strengthen me with the same Spirit that sustained You, and help me to resist any temptations or distractions that may come my way.

Holy Spirit, I invite You to lead and guide me throughout this fast. Fill me with Your power and presence, and help me to be sensitive to Your promptings. May this fast be a time of deepening my relationship with You and growing in my spiritual walk.

Father, I thank You for the privilege of fasting and for the opportunity to draw closer to You. I commit this fast into Your hands, trusting that You will accomplish Your purposes in and through me. May Your will be done in my life, and may Your name be glorified.

In the precious name of Jesus, I pray.

Amen.

As you begin your fast with this prayer, remember that fasting is not about earning God's favor or manipulating His hand, but about positioning yourself to receive His grace and to hear His voice more clearly. It is a time of surrender, of laying down your own desires and seeking His will above all else. Throughout your fast, continue to pray, meditate on Scripture, and listen for the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit.

Fasting can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. It is a time of spiritual growth and renewal, a time to draw closer to God and to experience His presence in a deeper way. As you embark on this journey, may you be filled with His peace, His strength, and His love. Remember the words of Jesus: "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:6). May your hunger and thirst for God be satisfied as you seek Him with all your heart.