After a visit from one of his brothers and some friends, Nehemiah received troubling news about his homeland of Israel, from which he had been exiled. He was deeply distressed to learn that things were not going well in Jerusalem: the people were in great trouble and disgrace, the city walls had been torn down, and the gates, which symbolized commerce and security, had been destroyed. This report filled Nehemiah with profound concern for the safety and well-being of his people.
Scripture tells us that upon hearing this heart-breaking news, Nehemiah “sat down and wept. In fact, for days I mourned, fasted, and prayed to the God of heaven” (Nehemiah 1:4). His deep sorrow over the condition of Jerusalem led him to seek God earnestly, showing his compassion and reliance on divine guidance amidst overwhelming distress.
Nehemiah’s response—mourning, fasting, and praying—demonstrates a profound dependence on God and an understanding that seeking His guidance is essential in the face of such dire circumstances.
This raises an important question: how do we respond to overwhelming or heartbreaking news? Do we, like Nehemiah, turn to God in prayer and reflection, or do we retreat into despair, wishing the situation away? Often, our instinct is to avoid the pain rather than face it. Nehemiah’s example reminds us of the power of confronting our struggles with faith and seeking divine wisdom in times of uncertainty.
To mourn is to experience or express grief, particularly in response to someone’s death. Psychologically, fasting can also be seen as a form of mourning—not just grieving another’s death but dying to oneself. It’s a personal sacrifice, as described in Romans 12:1.
In Matthew 5:4, Jesus says, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
Isaiah 61:3-7 promises:
3 “To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty instead of ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, and festive praise instead of despair. They will be like great oaks planted by the Lord for His glory.
4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins and repair cities destroyed long ago. They will revive them, though they have been deserted for many generations.
5 Foreigners will serve you, feeding your flocks, plowing your fields, and tending your vineyards.
6 You will be called priests of the Lord, ministers of our God. You will enjoy the treasures of nations and boast in their riches.
7 Instead of shame and dishonour, you will receive a double portion of honour and prosperity in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.”
Nehemiah’s calling extended beyond being a trusted cupbearer; he was called by God to rebuild the ancient ruins and restore cities that had long been destroyed. As Isaiah 58:12 states, “Some of you will rebuild the ancient ruins of your cities. You will be known as rebuilders of walls and restorers of homes.”
Fasting involves deliberately abstaining from food for a period of time for spiritual purposes. The Bible instructs us to fast and pray, not if we fast, but when we fast. Fasting, when done properly, can transform your life. This isn’t about guilt-tripping anyone—if you are content with your life and circumstances, fasting may not be necessary. However, if you are dissatisfied with the status quo or weary of your current situation, fasting can be a prescribed remedy.
Fasting is a practice for everyone and should mark the beginning of any significant journey or endeavour.
- The Path to Success Begins with Fasting
God desires success for us, as noted in Joshua 1:8, where He promises that we will “prosper and have good success.” He does not want us to fail. Success can be defined as achieving a specific aim or purpose, and fasting helps clarify and chisel out that purpose. Through prayer and fasting, God refines and defines your life’s purpose, acting as the hammer and chisel that reveal what is within you. Nehemiah’s story is a testament to success achieved through fasting and prayer. Nehemiah 1:4 and 1:11 show how his earnest prayers for success and favour demonstrate the role of fasting in his journey.
Similarly, Ezra’s story highlights the power of fasting in seeking God’s guidance and protection. Ezra 8:23 notes how fasting and petitioning God led to answered prayers and divine protection.
- Fasting Refines Our Love for Jesus
Fasting intensifies our love and affection for Jesus. As 1 John 3:8 and Colossians 2:15 show, Jesus is the ultimate model of triumph and success, having overcome spiritual powers through His sacrifice. Even Jesus fasted, underscoring its importance.
Temptation, which often follows fasting, creates choices, highlighting the role of love and commitment. Fasting refines our love for Jesus by creating a deeper hunger and passion for God, akin to the pursuit of love, where loss of appetite can signify deep affection.
Fast because success is within reach. Fast because it brings success closer and helps you tap into your true purpose in life—your raison d’être.
The book of Nehemiah is a powerful example of success achieved in the face of adversity. Nehemiah 6:15 records that the wall was completed on October 2, just fifty-two days after the work began. When their enemies and surrounding nations heard of this accomplishment, they were frightened and humiliated, realizing that the work had been accomplished with the help of God.
I believe that each of us, whether in a fulfilling or challenging job, has a deeper calling that defines our true place of success and recognition. This calling represents where our legacy truly lies.
The challenge is that many people simply wish and hope for change rather than actively becoming the change they seek. Mourning, fasting, and prayer can serve as powerful catalysts for transformation. Why not join us once a week on Fridays to abstain from food, pray, and dedicate ourselves to dying to self for a greater purpose? By doing so, we align ourselves more closely with our higher calling and make a meaningful impact.
