The Blessedness of Fasting and Prayer
By Apostle Dr. Michael Mband
Introduction Fasting and prayer are powerful spiritual disciplines that unlock divine blessings and transformation in the life of every believer. In this message, Apostle Dr. Michael Mband explores the profound benefits of fasting, drawing from Scripture and practical experience to encourage Christians to embrace these practices wholeheartedly.
The Value of Fasting
Commitment to fasting is rooted in understanding its value. Fasting is not easy—the body resists, and the flesh craves comfort. Yet, when the believer sees the spiritual profit and transformation that fasting brings, enduring the temporary discomfort becomes worthwhile. As Jesus endured the cross for the glory set before Him, so too can believers endure the discipline of fasting for the rewards it brings.
Key Benefits of Fasting
Deliverance from Forces That Defile
Fasting brings deliverance from the spiritual forces that seek to defile and separate us from God. Apostle Mband highlights that every good and evil thing has a spirit behind it. When believers struggle with sin or temptation, fasting becomes a means of breaking the bonds of wickedness and gaining sanctification. Referencing Isaiah 58:6 and Romans 7:15, he explains that fasting helps break the cycles of sin and empowers believers to live righteously.
“Fasting is ordained by God to break such bonds… to let the oppressed go free and to break every yoke.”
Fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it is a spiritual battle against the forces that hinder holiness. Through fasting, believers invite God’s power to overcome sin and live in purity.
Delivery of Answers to Prayer
Fasting ensures the delivery of answers to prayers. Drawing from Daniel 10, Apostle Mband recounts how Daniel’s persistent fasting and prayer overcame spiritual opposition, resulting in angelic intervention and answered prayer. Isaiah 58:9 promises that when we call, the Lord will answer if we remove the yoke and pursue holiness.
“When we fast, we ensure delivery to our prayers… God rewards openly those who seek Him in secret.”
Fasting aligns the believer’s heart with God’s will, removes spiritual obstacles, and accelerates the manifestation of God’s promises.
Divine Favor
Fasting attracts divine favor. Using the example of Esther (Esther 4:16; 5:1-3), Apostle Mband explains how fasting prepared Esther to receive favor from the king, resulting in the deliverance of her people. He emphasizes that favor is the divine enablement for attractability, likability, and acceptability—qualities that open doors and bring provision.
“When favor is upon you, it will attract everything you need for life… Pray for favor, not just for finances.”
Fasting is a key that unlocks favor, making the impossible possible and granting believers access to opportunities and breakthroughs.
Empowerment for Fulfillment of Prophecy
Fasting empowers believers to see the fulfillment of God’s prophetic promises. Apostle Mband teaches that prophecies often require spiritual warfare and perseverance through fasting and prayer. He references Daniel’s response to Jeremiah’s prophecy (Daniel 9:1-3) and Elijah’s prayers (James 5:17-18) as examples of how fasting activates the fulfillment of God’s word.
“Any Bible verse that God has promised you is a prophecy in your life… For it to fulfill, you must engage in fasting and prayer.”
Fasting is not passive waiting; it is active participation in bringing God’s promises to fruition. The True Focus of Fasting Apostle Mband urges believers to focus not on what they get from fasting, but on who they become through it. The ultimate goal is transformation—a deeper relationship with God, increased holiness, and alignment with His purpose. Fasting should be approached with humility, sincerity, and a desire for spiritual growth rather than public recognition or material gain.
Conclusion
Fasting and prayer are spiritual disciplines that bring deliverance, answered prayers, divine favor, and the fulfillment of prophecy. Apostle Dr. Michael Mband’s message challenges believers to embrace fasting as a pathway to transformation and deeper intimacy with God. As you commit to fasting and prayer, expect God to move mightily in your life, breaking every yoke and releasing His blessings in abundance.
