The disciples of Christ failed in delivering a boy from the torments of Satan; and now the boy’s father brings him to Jesus with the plea, “Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed.” (Matt. 17:15) Jesus immediately rebukes the devil and frees the lad from his power. The disciples later asked the Master why they were not able to cure the boy; and Jesus replies, “Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” (Matt. 17:21)It needs to be understood that victory over appetite can be obtained by nothing “but by prayer and fasting!” For success in this war you must start each day with a private devotion lasting at least 30 minutes.

Then throughout the day following the Bible injunction to, “pray without ceasing.” (1Thess. 5:17) Then begin a 24 hour fast, starting after breakfast in the morning and ending before breakfast the next morning; drinking nothing but water during the fast! Drink at least 64 ounces of water each day unless you are on fluid restrictions for medical reasons.

You may repeat the fast as often as the Holy Spirit impresses you! Fasting has health benefits also including: improving blood sugars in diabetes, reducing blood pressure, improving digestive problems like reflux and irritable bowel syndrome and increasing mental acuity. (CAUTION: Diabetic should consult with their health care provider before beginning a fast.)