April 27: Weekly Focus

Published April 27, 2026
A graphic for a 2026 Bible reading plan with a leafless tree in a yellow field. Text reads 'daily reminders: daily practices for spiritual growth'.

April - Fasting

Fasting is the practice of giving up food or another form of comfort to seek God in a deeper way. It is not about earning God’s approval but about drawing near to Him with humility and dependence. Through fasting, we remember that our true nourishment comes from God alone, and we make space to listen more fully to His voice. This month we focus on fasting as a way of realigning our hearts with God after the joy of Easter, grounding ourselves in His presence and provision.

Week of April 27- Week 17

Reading:

2“Why have we fasted,” they say, “and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?” “Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. 3Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high. 6No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free and remove the chains that bind people. 7Share your food with the hungry and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help. Isaiah 58:2–3, 6–7 (NLT)

God makes it clear that fasting without justice and compassion is empty. True fasting leads to action that reflects His heart for mercy and care for others.

Reflection Questions:

1.    What does this passage reveal about God’s view of fasting?

2.    How is fasting connected to justice and compassion?

3.    What actions can flow from your fasting this week?

4.    How does fasting change your perspective toward the needs of others?

5.    What would it look like to fast in a way that brings life and freedom to others?

Why this matters for life today:

Moments of fasting often come before big decisions or new directions. Pausing to fast reminds us that we do not have to figure everything out on our own. God is present to guide us when we stop and listen with open hearts. 

Take it Deeper:

  • The early church fasted and prayed before sending out missionaries.

2One day as these men were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Appoint Barnabas and Saul for the special work to which I have called them.” 3So after more fasting and prayer, the men laid their hands on them and sent them on their way. Acts 13:2–3 (NLT)

  • Esther called her people to fast and seek God’s help in a crisis.

15Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: 16“Go and gather together all the Jews of Susa and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will do the same. And then, though it is against the law, I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die.” Esther 4:15–16 (NLT)