7 Powerful Prayers to Turn to When Your Lenten Fast Gets Tough

Carbonatix Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Carbonatix

Fasting has been a sacred discipline during Lent for centuries. When you fast as you prepare for Easter, you can move closer to God by setting aside physical comforts to focus on spiritual growth. During Lent, fasting reminds you of Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness, where he fasted and resisted temptation to prepare himself for his ministry work. Just as prayer was important to Jesus when he fasted, prayer is also a vital way for you to find the encouragement you need for your own fast this Lent. You can use specific prayers to lift up to God when you start to struggle with your fast. The more you pray, the more you can find the strength you need to fast.

Fasting is about much more than just abstaining from food or activities you enjoy during other times. Beyond that, fasting is about deepening your relationship with God, strengthening your faith, and preparing your heart to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection on Easter. In Joel 2:12, God calls you to fast as a way of growing closer to him: “‘Even now,’ declares the LORD, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.’” Isaiah 58:6 reminds you of God’s desire for a meaningful fast: “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?” Fasting draws you closer to God and helps you grow in holiness.

However, fasting can be challenging. You can expect to struggle sometimes when you deny yourself something you enjoy – whether you’re fasting from certain foods, or whether you’re fasting from something else, such as social media or television shows. So, it’s important to pray so you can overcome the challenges of fasting. Here are 7 prayers to lift up to God when you start to struggle with your fast this Lent:

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Denis Mamin 

1. A prayer for the strength to continue fasting.

1. A prayer for the strength to continue fasting.

Dear God, you see my heart and my desire to grow closer to you through this fast. But I confess that I’m struggling. I crave what I’ve given up for this fast, and I’m distracted by missing it. God, I need you to give me the strength to continue fasting. Your Word says in Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Help me rely on your unlimited strength rather than on my own limited willpower. Remind me that this fast is about devotion, not deprivation. Please sustain me as I fast, and draw me closer to you. When I feel weak, help me to notice your constant presence with me. Refresh and renew me, replacing my struggles with your peace. Let this fast be an opportunity for me to grow in trust and dependence on you. Strengthen my faith so I can persevere in my fast. Every sacrifice I make is an offering to you, God, because I love you and want a closer relationship with you. Thank you for helping me stay strong while I’m fasting. Amen.

2. A prayer for a renewed focus on God.

Dear God, as I’m dealing with the challenges of fasting, I sometimes find myself focusing on what I’m missing rather than on you. I don't want this fast to be in vain. You tell me in Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Please help me focus on you, to seek you with all my heart, and to embrace this season as an opportunity to grow closer to you. Let this fast refine me and help me become more holy. As I focus on you while I fast, let me experience spiritual renewal and revival. Remove distractions from my heart and mind, God. Replace my longing for what I’ve given up with a greater longing for time with you. Please increase my perception of you so I can come to know you in deeper ways. Let my fasting struggles remind me to turn my attention back to you and remember why I’m fasting in the first place. Thank you, God. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©Sparrowstock

3. A prayer for overcoming temptation.

3. A prayer for overcoming temptation.

Dear God, just as Jesus faced temptation in the wilderness, I’m also feeling the pull of temptation. I’m tempted to give in, to justify breaking my fast, and to allow my cravings to interfere with my commitment to you. But your Word promises in 1 Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” God, please strengthen me to resist temptation and remain faithful to this spiritual journey of fasting during Lent. Help me to recognize the deeper purpose behind this fast. Remind me that whenever I’m tempted to stop fasting, that’s actually an opportunity to surrender more fully to you. When I struggle, please redirect my heart toward you and remind me of your promises. Help me find fulfillment in my relationship with you rather than in the earthly comforts I’m giving up for during this fast. I trust that true fulfillment comes from you alone. Give me discernment to recognize when my desires are pulling me away from you, and help me devote myself fully to seeking your will. Amen. 

4. A prayer for physical and emotional endurance.

Dear God, I feel tired – physically, emotionally, and mentally. This fast is challenging me in ways I didn’t expect. But I trust you to provide what I need. Isaiah 40:31 reminds me: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” God, please renew my strength. Let my weakness be an opportunity to rely more on you and to experience the fullness of your grace. When my body aches and my mind is exhausted, remind me that you are my source of renewal. Teach me to find rest in you. You sustain me in all circumstances. Please fill me with your peace, and let my endurance be a testimony of my faith in you. Help me to remember that my suffering is temporary, and that through this fast, you are refining me for a greater purpose. Let me lean on your promises and find comfort in knowing that you are always with me. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/imtmphoto 

5. A prayer for a humble heart.

5. A prayer for a humble heart.

Dear God, let this fast be a time when I can look closely at my life, realize how much I need you, and become a more humble person. I don’t want to fast out of obligation or pride, but from a sincere desire to seek you. Prevent me from seeking recognition or self-righteousness by fasting. Matthew 6:16-18 reminds me that fasting should be done in secret before you. Help me to approach this fast with the right motivation, honoring you above all else. Teach me to walk in humility before you. Strip away my pride and self-sufficiency so I can be aware every day that my life is in your hands. Remind me that true humility involves surrendering myself to you and fully embracing your grace. Amen. 

6. A prayer for a compassionate heart.

Dear God, as I deny myself something I enjoy during this fast, help me remember those who are in need around me. Let this fast open my eyes to the struggles of others – the hungry, the hurting, the lonely, etc. Isaiah 58:7 calls me to share my food with the hungry and provide for the poor. God, while I’m fasting, show me how I can help others. Let me develop the compassionate heart you want me to have. I want to become a more kind and generous person through this fast. Let my heart be softened by your love so I can see the needs of others through your eyes and be moved to put love into action to help them. Thank you, God. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Ridofranz 

7. A prayer for the anticipation of Easter joy.

7. A prayer for the anticipation of Easter joy.

Dear God, as I go through this season of fasting, I don’t want to lose sight of the joy that I’ll soon experience. Easter is coming – the day of Jesus’ resurrection, when I can celebrate! Even as I make this sacrifice of fasting, please remind me to look ahead eagerly for the celebration of Jesus’ victory over sin and death. The Bible reminds me in Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” God, please help me not to fast with a heavy heart, but with a sense of excitement about celebrating Jesus’ saving work on Easter. Help me to see this fast not as a burden, but as a way to appreciate the miracle of Easter more. When I feel tired or discouraged, remind me that my struggles today are nothing compared to the glory that is to come. Let my anticipation build, not just for the celebration of Easter morning, but for the eternal joy of being in your presence. Thank you for the assurance of salvation and for the joy I can experience in my relationship with you. Amen. 

In conclusion, fasting is never easy, but it’s always worthwhile. When you start to struggle with your fast, remember that God is using it to draw you closer to him and preparing you to fully experience the joy of Easter – and of enjoying a close relationship with God. Let these prayers help you stay faithful while you fast and give you fresh gratitude for what Jesus has done for you!

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/pcess609 

 

Salem News Channel Today

Sponsored Links


September 26 - Phoenix, AZ
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts


November 2 - Detroit, MI
Zion Christian Church in Troy


October 6 - Los Angeles, CA
Pasadena Convention Center


November 5 - San Antonio, TX
Norris Centers – The Grand Red Oak Ballroom


October 8 - Sacramento, CA
William Jessup University


November 7 - Tampa, FL
The Palladium at St. Pete College


October 22 - Minneapolis, MN
Crowne Plaza AiRE


November 15 - San Francisco, CA
Fremont Marriott Silicon Valley


October 23 - Philadelphia, PA
Green Valley Country Club


November 16 - Denver, CO
CU South Denver - Formerly Wildlife Experience


November 2 - Chicago, IL
Chicago Westin Northwest in Itasca


November 21 - Cleveland, OH
Holiday Inn Rockside in Independence



Salem Radio Network Speakers

Larry Elder is an American lawyer, writer, and radio and television personality who calls himself the "Sage of South Central" a district of Los Angeles, Larry says his philosophy is to entertain, inform, provoke and to hopefully uplift. His calling card is "we have a country to save" and to him this means returning to the bedrock Constitutional principles of limited government and maximum personal responsibility. Elder's iconoclastic wit and intellectual agility makes him a particularly attractive voice in a nation that seems weary of traditional racial dialogue.” – Los Angeles Times.

Mike Gallagher Mike Gallagher began his broadcasting career in 1978 in Dayton, Ohio. Today, he is one of the most listened-to talk radio show hosts in America, recently having been ranked in the Talkers Magazine “Heavy Hundred” list – the 100 most important talk radio hosts in America. Prior to being launched into national syndication in 1998, Mike hosted the morning show on WABC-AM in New York City. Today, Talkers Magazine reports that his show is heard by over 3.75 million weekly listeners. Besides his radio work, Mike is seen on Fox News Channel as an on-air contributor, frequently appearing on the cable news giant.

Hugh Hewitt is one of the nation’s leading bloggers and a genuine media revolutionary. He brings that expertise, his wit and what The New Yorker magazine calls his “amiable but relentless manner” to his nationally syndicated show each day.

When Dr. Sebastian Gorka was growing up, he listened to talk radio under his pillow with a transistor radio, dreaming that one day he would be behind the microphone. Beginning New Year’s Day 2019, he got his wish. Gorka now hosts America First every weekday afternoon 3 to 6pm ET. Gorka’s unique story works well on the radio. He is national security analyst for the Fox News Channel and author of two books: "Why We Fight" and "Defeating Jihad." His latest book releasing this fall is “War For America’s Soul.” He is uniquely qualified to fight the culture war and stand up for what is great about America, his adopted home country.

Broadcasting from his home station of KRLA in Los Angeles, the Dennis Prager Show is heard across the country. Everything in life – from politics to religion to relationships – is grist for Dennis’ mill. If it’s interesting, if it affects your life, then Dennis will be talking about it – with passion, humor, insight and wisdom.

Sean Hannity is a conservative radio and television host, and one of the original primetime hosts on the Fox News Channel, where he has appeared since 1996. Sean Hannity began his radio career at a college station in California, before moving on to markets in the Southeast and New York. Today, he’s one of the most listened to on-air voices. Hannity’s radio program went into national syndication on September 10, 2001, and airs on more than 500 stations. Talkers Magazine estimates Hannity’s weekly radio audience at 13.5 million. In 1996 he was hired as one of the original hosts on Fox News Channel. As host of several popular Fox programs, Hannity has become the highest-paid news anchor on television.

Michelle Malkin is a mother, wife, blogger, conservative syndicated columnist, longtime cable TV news commentator, and best-selling author of six books. She started her newspaper journalism career at the Los Angeles Daily News in 1992, moved to the Seattle Times in 1995, and has been penning nationally syndicated newspaper columns for Creators Syndicate since 1999. She is founder of conservative Internet start-ups Hot Air and Twitchy.com. Malkin has received numerous awards for her investigative journalism, including the Council on Governmental Ethics Laws (COGEL) national award for outstanding service for the cause of governmental ethics and leadership (1998), the Reed Irvine Accuracy in Media Award for Investigative Journalism (2006), the Heritage Foundation and Franklin Center for Government & Public Integrity's Breitbart Award for Excellence in Journalism (2013), the Center for Immigration Studies' Eugene Katz Award for Excellence in the Coverage of Immigration Award (2016), and the Manhattan Film Festival's Film Heals Award (2018). Married for 26 years and the mother of two teenage children, she lives with her family in Colorado. Follow her at michellemalkin.com. (Photo reprinted with kind permission from Peter Duke Photography.)

Sponsored by:

7 Powerful Prayers to Turn to When Your Lenten Fast Gets Tough

Carbonatix Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Carbonatix

Fasting has been a sacred discipline during Lent for centuries. When you fast as you prepare for Easter, you can move closer to God by setting aside physical comforts to focus on spiritual growth. During Lent, fasting reminds you of Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness, where he fasted and resisted temptation to prepare himself for his ministry work. Just as prayer was important to Jesus when he fasted, prayer is also a vital way for you to find the encouragement you need for your own fast this Lent. You can use specific prayers to lift up to God when you start to struggle with your fast. The more you pray, the more you can find the strength you need to fast.

Fasting is about much more than just abstaining from food or activities you enjoy during other times. Beyond that, fasting is about deepening your relationship with God, strengthening your faith, and preparing your heart to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection on Easter. In Joel 2:12, God calls you to fast as a way of growing closer to him: “‘Even now,’ declares the LORD, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.’” Isaiah 58:6 reminds you of God’s desire for a meaningful fast: “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?” Fasting draws you closer to God and helps you grow in holiness.

However, fasting can be challenging. You can expect to struggle sometimes when you deny yourself something you enjoy – whether you’re fasting from certain foods, or whether you’re fasting from something else, such as social media or television shows. So, it’s important to pray so you can overcome the challenges of fasting. Here are 7 prayers to lift up to God when you start to struggle with your fast this Lent:

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Denis Mamin 

1. A prayer for the strength to continue fasting.

1. A prayer for the strength to continue fasting.

Dear God, you see my heart and my desire to grow closer to you through this fast. But I confess that I’m struggling. I crave what I’ve given up for this fast, and I’m distracted by missing it. God, I need you to give me the strength to continue fasting. Your Word says in Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Help me rely on your unlimited strength rather than on my own limited willpower. Remind me that this fast is about devotion, not deprivation. Please sustain me as I fast, and draw me closer to you. When I feel weak, help me to notice your constant presence with me. Refresh and renew me, replacing my struggles with your peace. Let this fast be an opportunity for me to grow in trust and dependence on you. Strengthen my faith so I can persevere in my fast. Every sacrifice I make is an offering to you, God, because I love you and want a closer relationship with you. Thank you for helping me stay strong while I’m fasting. Amen.

2. A prayer for a renewed focus on God.

Dear God, as I’m dealing with the challenges of fasting, I sometimes find myself focusing on what I’m missing rather than on you. I don't want this fast to be in vain. You tell me in Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Please help me focus on you, to seek you with all my heart, and to embrace this season as an opportunity to grow closer to you. Let this fast refine me and help me become more holy. As I focus on you while I fast, let me experience spiritual renewal and revival. Remove distractions from my heart and mind, God. Replace my longing for what I’ve given up with a greater longing for time with you. Please increase my perception of you so I can come to know you in deeper ways. Let my fasting struggles remind me to turn my attention back to you and remember why I’m fasting in the first place. Thank you, God. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©Sparrowstock

3. A prayer for overcoming temptation.

3. A prayer for overcoming temptation.

Dear God, just as Jesus faced temptation in the wilderness, I’m also feeling the pull of temptation. I’m tempted to give in, to justify breaking my fast, and to allow my cravings to interfere with my commitment to you. But your Word promises in 1 Corinthians 10:13: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.” God, please strengthen me to resist temptation and remain faithful to this spiritual journey of fasting during Lent. Help me to recognize the deeper purpose behind this fast. Remind me that whenever I’m tempted to stop fasting, that’s actually an opportunity to surrender more fully to you. When I struggle, please redirect my heart toward you and remind me of your promises. Help me find fulfillment in my relationship with you rather than in the earthly comforts I’m giving up for during this fast. I trust that true fulfillment comes from you alone. Give me discernment to recognize when my desires are pulling me away from you, and help me devote myself fully to seeking your will. Amen. 

4. A prayer for physical and emotional endurance.

Dear God, I feel tired – physically, emotionally, and mentally. This fast is challenging me in ways I didn’t expect. But I trust you to provide what I need. Isaiah 40:31 reminds me: “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” God, please renew my strength. Let my weakness be an opportunity to rely more on you and to experience the fullness of your grace. When my body aches and my mind is exhausted, remind me that you are my source of renewal. Teach me to find rest in you. You sustain me in all circumstances. Please fill me with your peace, and let my endurance be a testimony of my faith in you. Help me to remember that my suffering is temporary, and that through this fast, you are refining me for a greater purpose. Let me lean on your promises and find comfort in knowing that you are always with me. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/imtmphoto 

5. A prayer for a humble heart.

5. A prayer for a humble heart.

Dear God, let this fast be a time when I can look closely at my life, realize how much I need you, and become a more humble person. I don’t want to fast out of obligation or pride, but from a sincere desire to seek you. Prevent me from seeking recognition or self-righteousness by fasting. Matthew 6:16-18 reminds me that fasting should be done in secret before you. Help me to approach this fast with the right motivation, honoring you above all else. Teach me to walk in humility before you. Strip away my pride and self-sufficiency so I can be aware every day that my life is in your hands. Remind me that true humility involves surrendering myself to you and fully embracing your grace. Amen. 

6. A prayer for a compassionate heart.

Dear God, as I deny myself something I enjoy during this fast, help me remember those who are in need around me. Let this fast open my eyes to the struggles of others – the hungry, the hurting, the lonely, etc. Isaiah 58:7 calls me to share my food with the hungry and provide for the poor. God, while I’m fasting, show me how I can help others. Let me develop the compassionate heart you want me to have. I want to become a more kind and generous person through this fast. Let my heart be softened by your love so I can see the needs of others through your eyes and be moved to put love into action to help them. Thank you, God. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Ridofranz 

7. A prayer for the anticipation of Easter joy.

7. A prayer for the anticipation of Easter joy.

Dear God, as I go through this season of fasting, I don’t want to lose sight of the joy that I’ll soon experience. Easter is coming – the day of Jesus’ resurrection, when I can celebrate! Even as I make this sacrifice of fasting, please remind me to look ahead eagerly for the celebration of Jesus’ victory over sin and death. The Bible reminds me in Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” God, please help me not to fast with a heavy heart, but with a sense of excitement about celebrating Jesus’ saving work on Easter. Help me to see this fast not as a burden, but as a way to appreciate the miracle of Easter more. When I feel tired or discouraged, remind me that my struggles today are nothing compared to the glory that is to come. Let my anticipation build, not just for the celebration of Easter morning, but for the eternal joy of being in your presence. Thank you for the assurance of salvation and for the joy I can experience in my relationship with you. Amen. 

In conclusion, fasting is never easy, but it’s always worthwhile. When you start to struggle with your fast, remember that God is using it to draw you closer to him and preparing you to fully experience the joy of Easter – and of enjoying a close relationship with God. Let these prayers help you stay faithful while you fast and give you fresh gratitude for what Jesus has done for you!

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/pcess609 

 

Salem News Channel Today

Sponsored Links

On Air & Up Next

See the Full Program Guide