Saints in the observance of the 40- Day Fast (12:00 midnight to 12:00 noon) beginning January 1, 2024, through February 9, 2024, we as believers need to fast and connect with God. Fasting happens to be the quickest way to get power from God. We cannot navigate through the End-time storm if we are not a man or woman of fasting. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:1-2)

This year, the Spirit has moved me to ask the people of God to give up something (or somethings) that they love or enjoy doing such as eating sweets or watching their favorite TV shows, etc. for this period of Fasting, from 12 midnight to 12 noon.

           So many people of God are suffering with sicknesses and even death because of their consumption of sweets or lack of exercise. Reducing sugar intake can have several benefits for your health, as well as becoming more active. It can help you lose weight, reduce the risk of diabetes, strengthen muscles, and improve dental health. Consuming too much sugar is associated with several health conditions, including coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and other issues. In addition to these benefits, cutting back on sugar can also lead to better mental health, resulting in healthy and restful sleep. Consuming sugar can interfere with the collagen repair process in your body. Collagen is a protein that provides a glow to your skin by maintaining its elasticity and keeping it wrinkle-free. Drinking more water can also help a great deal.

           The condition of your internal body health can improve greatly if you take this time to give up things that are harmful to your body (the temple that the Holy Ghost dwells in). During these 40 days of sacrificing and praying, choose to take better care of yourself.

           In addition, take advantage of this Fasting time by spending more quality and intimate moments with the Lord in worship; reading scriptures and positive literature; in singing spiritual songs and hymns; and in thankful prayers to God. Internalize Ephesians 5:19-20 “Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;”

           Saints, for an outward sacrifice to be genuine, it must be the expression of a spiritual sacrifice. Jesus recalls the words of the prophet Hosea (Hosea 6:6): “I desire mercy, and not sacrifice”. God meets us where we are in our faith. He begins at that point and helps us grow gradually and continually. He is an expert at taking our mistakes and turning them into miracles. Be led by the Holy Spirit and sacrifice during this Forty Day-Fast and pray that others do the same. Remember “…with God all things are possible”. (Matthew 19:26).

           As you fast and pray, take time to read and focus on the scriptural prayer points included on the next few pages for confirmation. I am praying for your spiritual success for these 40 days.

In His Service,

Bishop Dr. Calvin L. Worthem

General Chief Overseer/Senior Bishop