DAY 3

Fasting for Cities and Nations

In the Old Testament book of Jonah, we read how the pagan city of Nineveh reacted to Jonah’s message of God’s impending judgement on this great but godless city. The response of the Ninevites was remarkable, ‘The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to least, put on sackcloth.’ (Jonah 3:5) The king joined them and instructed the whole city to engage in a total fast (food and drink), to turn to the Lord in repentance, fasting and mourning. Importantly, this fast was not just physical, but spiritual and moral: ‘Let everyone call urgently on God, let them give up their evil ways and their violence.’ (Jonah 3:8) This was truly a city-wide Awakening. And the Lord responded: ‘When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened.’ (Jonah 3:10)

We also see how fasting ultimately changed the future of nations. On one occasion in the Early Church at Antioch we read, ‘While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them.’ (Acts 13:2-3) It was in this atmosphere of worship, prayer and fasting that the church in Antioch heard a ‘word’ that launched the leaders into a whole new phase of missionary momentum that ultimately changed the world!

So, what about us today as the people of God? Here we are in 2025, living in a nation that has departed from God, and yet, where finally, the spiritual tide of people seeking God, coming to church, and being interested in the Bible seems to be turning. In this climate of greater spiritual openness, we have a vital part to play in fanning the flames of another Great Awakening in our cities, our region, and our nation(s). So, we need to heed again this urgent call: “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)

As we humble ourselves through fasting, combined with repentance, prayer and intercession, the promise to us is forgiveness and the healing of the land. Let it be so, Lord!

So, ask yourself this question, ‘What am I going to fast from today?’