April 17: Insight Post by Julie Christensen
Friday Insight Post
by Julie Christensen
Not much experience here with Joel or fasting, so I was curious what God was going to teach me through this week’s BRP. He quickly showed me that I’m not immune to fasting. I’m not too good to suffer. I should try it a time or two. I know God is full of grace, but it felt like He was pointing directly at me, reminding me that fasting isn’t just for a select few; it’s an invitation for all of us. Just look at the people Joel includes. Sounds like you don’t even get a free pass during your honeymoon!
As I moved on to Ezra, I felt the Holy Spirit whisper, “Julie, look! He hears your prayers, and you will be rewarded.” That struck me. Too often, I pray superficially. Too often, I pray while engaged with other tasks. Too often, I’m praying without really listening. I’m confident I’ve missed many of His rewards with my current prayer life! Ezra made me realize that sometimes I treat prayer like a fast-food drive-through: quick, convenient, on the go. God is inviting me to dine in: to sit still, stay awhile, talk, listen, ask questions, and wait for His answers. Ezra dined in by approaching the long journey with fasting and prayer first. For my journeys, how often do I pack suitcases and water houseplants first, instead of fasting and prayer first?
Then Nehemiah reminded me that I can acknowledge my shortcomings and choose a new path forward. God is constantly pouring out His mercy, grace, and love, as He welcomes me to begin a deeper, more intentional prayer life with fasting.
So now I’m asking myself: Am I willing to sit still and truly listen for His guidance? Am I ready to hear His truth? Am I willing to let His will unfold in my life? I know He’ll be patient with me while I try.
New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
www.newhope.org