Prayer and Intercession — Isaiah 58:3

If you've been wondering why you hardly witness changes even after extended periods of fasting and prayer, this focal scripture has an answer. Two things were pointed out by God as the reason why the fastings of the Israelites yielded no result. Let's examine them below © © 4. Fasting without denying themselves of happy moments: You must understand that fasting isn't only about denying yourself of the satisfaction that food provides, fasting Is actually "separation" from everything your natural self has formed a dependence on or derives satisfaction from. So, during your moment of fast, you're expected by God to deny yourself of anything your flesh in one way or the other can't do without. This shows you that the self-denial that comes with fasting Is always specific to the concerned Individual. For instance, if you just can't stay without your phone in a day, then, your fast should include keeping your phone aside. This Is why fasting Is described as the "affliction of the soul" not just In this verse, but In several other verses of the scripture. The soul Is the center of desire and emotions so, except you bring it under control within the period of your fast, God won't recognize the fast. 2. Limiting financlal goals within the fasting perlod: The second issue God had with the Israelites was that they still continued with full-scale business operations within the period of their fast. Our verse tells how they still put their labourers under pressure to make maximum profits. This simply means that within your period of fasting and prayer, your financial goals and targets must be put on hold If your fast should be recognized by God. Let's keep it here for now.