The Core: Formation ~ Growing in the Way of Jesus
Matthew 6:5–18

Big Idea
Prayer and fasting re-order our lives, consecrates our heart, and tunes our ear to hear and respond to God’s Spirit.

1. The Heart of True Prayer (Matt. 6:5–13)

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Prayer is not performance, it’s relationship with the Father.
God sees what is done in secret, He values sincerity.
Jesus teaches us to pray:
Worship “Our Father, Holy is Your name.”
Surrender “Your kingdom come, Your will be done.”
Dependence “Give us today our daily bread.”
Forgiveness “Forgive us, as we forgive others.”
Protection “Deliver us from the evil one.”

Prayer isn’t about strong arming God, but aligning our hearts with His will.

2. The Practice of Fasting (Matt. 6:16–18)

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Jesus says “WHEN you fast,” not IF.
Warning: Don’t fast for show.
Instruction: Look normal, keep it private.
Promise: The Father sees and rewards with intimacy, strength, and breakthrough!

Fasting is sacrifice, laying down desires so God takes first place.

Why Prayer & Fasting Matter

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Body: Hunger reminds us, “Man shall not live on bread alone” (Matt. 4:4).
Mind: Fasting clears space for renewal (Rom. 12:2).
Spirit: When flesh is humbled, the Spirit leads (Gal. 5:16).

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Steps to Grow

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Step 1: 10 min prayer ~ Skip 1 meal weekly.
Step 2: 20–30 min prayer ~ 1 day fast
Step 3: 1 hr prayer ~ Extended food fasts with wisdom.

Final Challenge

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What’s forming you right now?
Whose voice is loudest in your life?
Prayer & fasting are not burdens, but pathways to intimacy, clarity, and freedom in Christ.

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