During prayer and fasting, it's important to focus on Scripture that encourages spiritual growth, repentance, and seeking God’s guidance. Here are some Bible verses and corresponding prayer points that you can use in your church:
Bible Verses
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Isaiah 58:6-9 (NIV)
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.” -
2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” -
Matthew 6:16-18 (NIV)
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” -
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” -
James 4:8 (NIV)
“Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
Prayer Points
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Seeking God’s Will
- Pray for clarity in knowing and following God's will for your life and the life of the church.
- Ask God to reveal any areas in your life that need transformation.
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Repentance and Forgiveness
- Pray for a spirit of repentance for any sins, both personally and collectively as a church.
- Seek God's forgiveness and healing for any divisions within the church community.
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Empowerment by the Holy Spirit
- Ask God to fill you and the church with His Holy Spirit, empowering you for service and ministry.
- Pray for boldness to share the Gospel and the love of Christ in your community.
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Healing and Restoration
- Present any prayer requests for healing—physical, emotional, relational—to God.
- Pray for restoration within families, friendships, and the church body.
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Provision and Blessing
- Seek God’s provision and blessings during this fasting period for both personal and church needs.
- Pray for the needs of your community and how the church can serve them.
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Unity in the Church
- Pray for unity among the congregation and for a spirit of love and cooperation.
- Ask God to help each member to use their gifts for the benefit of others.
Encourage your congregation to meditate on these verses and points during the fasting period, and consider sharing them in small groups or church meetings.