A Call to Prayer & Fasting: Rooted & Flourishing in God
FEBRAURY 18TH - APRIL 3RD
Church family, this is our time to seek the Lord like never before! Across generations, we are standing together, recognizing that in times of uncertainty—whether in our homes, our communities, or around the world—God remains in control.
Biblical Foundations for Corporate Prayer & Fasting
1
Esther's Example
Esther called for a fast before approaching the king to intercede for her people (Esther 4:16).
2
The Ninevites' Repentance
The Ninevites repented and fasted after hearing Jonah's warning, and God showed them mercy (Jonah 3:5-10).
3
Paul's Request
Paul urged the early churches to pray for his ministry as he carried the Gospel to the nations (Romans 15:30; Ephesians 6:19; Philippians 1:19; Colossians 4:3-4; 1 Thessalonians 5:25).
In light of all that is happening in the world today—the economy, government policies, wars, and even unusual weather patterns—Bishop Oliver is calling our entire congregation to a period of prayer and fasting from Wednesday, March 5, through Wednesday April 16th.
Rooted & Flourishing: A Multi-Generational Journey
Growing Deeper
At the start of 2025, Bishop Oliver challenged us to be "Rooted & Flourishing in God." This fast is an opportunity for every generation—elders, adults, young adults, teens, and children—to grow deeper in Christ and flourish in faith.
Connected to God
Prayer connects us to God. As we come together each day in prayer, we are strengthening our spiritual roots.
Removing Distractions
Fasting disconnects us from distractions. By sacrificing a meal, certain foods, or an entire day without food, we create space for God to work in our lives.
Finding Direction
Seeking God's direction will help you understand how He is calling you to serve and grow.
How You Can Participate
Corporately
- Follow the daily devotion to stay spiritually engaged.
- Join us live every morning at 7:14 AM for prayer (605-475-4700, passcode 688548#)
- Attend Wednesday Night Prayer Services at 7:00 PM in person and online for deeper periods of corporate and individual prayer and reflection.
Personally
- Choose a fast that is meaningful and sustainable for you.
- Identify your choice of fast to surrender.
- Be intentional in seeking God through prayer, Scripture, and worship.
We're in This Together!
For Everyone
It doesn't matter if you're new to prayer and fasting or if you've done it many times before—this is for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned prayer warrior or just starting your journey, we will walk alongside you and equip you with the tools you need to succeed.
United in Faith
Let's stand in unity, grow deeper in our faith, and trust God for breakthroughs in our lives, our families, and our church.
Watching God Move
Let's seek God together and watch Him move! #RootedAndFlourishing #PrayFastGrow #EBCFast2025
Most of us initiate prayers with OUR goals in mind. What do WE want out of this? When we start off in such a way, we have already blocked out possibly 90% of what God has to say or give to us, because our desire is to hear and receive what WE want. Limiting the blessings far beyond our imaginations because we refuse to let God reign over our vessels. The message from God that appears the smallest to you, may indeed become much bigger than you can presently understand.
THE MOST IMPORTANT TOOL IN PRAYER IS LISTENING FOR GOD'S DIRECTIONS FOR OUR LIVES!
Building Your Relationship with God
God has unique relationships with all of us and therefore our prayer lives are unique as well. Some of us put unnecessary pressures on ourselves to pray like someone we have heard, when the most important thing that God wants from us, is for us to Seek His Face (Psalm 27:8), to look for Him, the All Knowing for guidance, to love on Him, and continuously build a relationship with Him (John 15:14-15). A relationship with God is similar in one way to relationships with others, the more we communicate the stronger the relationship becomes; the communication is in fact our relationship. Prayer IS our relationship with God.
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1
No prayer
No relationship with God
2
Some prayer
Growing relationship with God
3
More prayer
BIGGER relationship with God
A humble heart and a mind open to Jesus is what He expects, and the Holy Spirit will do the rest (Romans 8:26,27).
WHY SHOULD WE PRAY?
Prayer is our direct connection to God, allowing us to express our love, worship, gratitude, and needs. Through prayer, we develop a deeper relationship with our Heavenly Father and fulfill our calling to communicate with Him.
- We pray because we love God.
- We pray to worship God for who He is.
- We pray to say thanks to our Father.
- We pray to God to praise Him.
- We pray to petition God.
- We pray to confess our sins.
- We pray to intercede for others.
- We pray against the enemies of God.
- We pray to listen to God.
- We pray to resist temptation.
- We pray because He directs us to pray.
Why Should I Fast?
1
Transformation
Fasting and Prayer combined can bring about a transformational revival in you, the nation, the world… it can be a very powerful tool in seeking God.
2
True Purpose
The ultimate purpose of the fast is not you and what you seek, but God.
3
Humility
Fasting is a true way to sacrifice for God and humble oneself to Him (Psalm 35:13; Ezra 8:21).
4
Worship
Fasting is an act of worship and honoring.
What is a fast?
A fast is a period of abstaining from something, denying self from a desire. There are multiple types of fasts, which we will address.
How Should We Prepare for a Fast?
1
Spiritual Preparation
- Pray before you fast. Ensure that you communicate with God and seek His guidance regarding your fast.
- Ask God to help you to examine your heart, detect and repent any unconfessed sins.
2
Physical Preparation
- Schedule a medical consultation at least 2-3 weeks before beginning your fast to discuss your plans and get a thorough health assessment.
- Inform your doctor about the type and duration of fast you plan to undertake, especially if you have any chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or are taking medications.
- If you have any underlying health conditions, work with your healthcare provider to develop a modified fasting plan that ensures both your spiritual and physical well-being.
- Decrease the amount of food that you eat a couple of days prior to the fast starting in order to prepare your mind, stomach, and appetite for less food.
Types of Fasts
The best way to choose the appropriate fast is to follow the lead of the Holy Spirit. Pray purposefully in identifying God's purpose and direction in your fast. His direction is the only thing that will make the fast meaningful and significant.
Lent Fast
Give up any food items (ex. bread, sweets, fried foods, snack foods, etc.) for the 40 days of Lent.
Partial Fast
Abstain from food for a set time; eat a simple meal of bread & water; sacrifice a certain food.
Daniel Fast
Abstains from delicacies, meats, and wines and focus on fresh foods such as fruits and vegetables
No Food Fast
Abstains from all food, including milk (protein) and only drinks liquids and water
Water Only Fast
Abstains from everything except water
Absolute/Supernatural Fast
This fast involves abstaining from any food or liquids, including water (the fast of Moses and Jesus)
It is important to focus on God, rather than food. The spiritual focus and growth will replace the normal presence of food during the fast.
It is EBC's Prayer that the Lord's most wonderful love and blessings will be poured out on you as you take this exciting step of faith.
The Model Prayer
Adoration & Thanksgiving
"Our Father Who art in heaven, hallowed be Your name" — The prayer principles of adoration (praise for who God is) and thanksgiving (praise for what He has done).
Affirmation
"Your kingdom come; Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" — The principle of affirmation, that is, agreeing with God's will and submitting to it.
Supplication
"Give us this day our daily bread" — The principle of supplication, in which we make requests both for ourselves (petition) and for others (intercession).
Confession
"And forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors" — The principle of confession in view of our need for forgiveness of sins.
Renewal
"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" — The necessity of renewal as we face the temptations of the world, the flesh, and the devil.
Closing Honor
"For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever" — A closing prayer that honors the Lord and completes our thoughts.
Pray for:
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Leadership Prayer
Support Bishop Craig L. Oliver, Sr. and Family
2
Community Prayer
Join corporate worship
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Personal Prayer
Your individual commitment
This season of prayer and fasting is both personal and corporate. We encourage you to approach it with this dual lens. Corporately, during this time, we encourage you to follow the daily devotion, join us live at 7:14am every morning for prayer (605-475-4700, passcode 688548#) and every Wednesday night live or online at 7:00pm for corporate prayer. Personally, seek God's guidance and direction, then chose or design a fast you will follow.
Remember, we are all at different places in our walk with God and our spirituality should never be a cause for comparison or competition. The Prayer and Fasting Schedule is a guide. How you fast and what you sacrifice is a personal decision and commitment between you and God. It is a time when we intentionally seek God even the more.
Daily Prayer & Scripture Guide
Follow this daily prayer schedule to guide your fasting journey. Each day builds upon the previous, creating a comprehensive spiritual journey that encompasses personal growth, church unity, and community impact.
COMMITTED TO DEVOTION
Deepening our relationship with God through prayer and fasting
Feb 18 – A Devoted Heart to God
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for hearts that delight fully in the Lord and trust Him completely.
Scriptures: Psalm 37:1–5; Mark 3:7–12
Feb 19 – Hearing and Obeying God's Voice
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for spiritual attentiveness and obedience as true marks of devotion.
Scriptures: Mark 3:31–35; Proverbs 10:5
Feb 20 – Living as a Set-Apart People
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for holiness in thought, word, and action.
Scriptures: Leviticus 11:44–45; Psalm 38:21–22
Feb 21 – Waiting Patiently on the Lord
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for grace to rest, wait, and trust God's timing.
Scriptures: Psalm 40:1–3; Mark 6:30–31
Feb 22 – God-Centered Worship
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray that our worship flows from surrendered hearts, not empty routines.
Scriptures: Psalm 40:6–10; Mark 7:6–8
Feb 23 – Hunger and Thirst for God
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for deeper spiritual hunger than physical comfort.
Scriptures: Psalm 42:1–2; Mark 8:34–35
Feb 24 – Confidence in God Alone
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for renewed hope and confidence rooted in God's truth.
Scriptures: Psalm 43:3–5; Proverbs 10:18
Feb 25 – Living by God's Word
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for submission to God's Word as our ultimate authority.
Scriptures: Psalm 44:4–8; Mark 9:7
Feb 26 – God as Our Refuge
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for trust in God as our refuge in every season.
Scriptures: Psalm 46:1–2; Proverbs 10:23
Feb 27 – Joyful Devotion
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for joy-filled faith that believes God for the impossible.
Scriptures: Psalm 47:6–8; Mark 11:22–24
COMMITTED TO DISCIPLINE
Faithfully stewarding our lives, work, and conduct
Feb 28 – Integrity Before God and People
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for integrity in private devotion and public living.
Scriptures: Proverbs 10:9; Psalm 48:12–14
Mar 1 – Disciplined Prayer and Watchfulness
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for spiritual alertness and consistency in prayer.
Scriptures: Mark 13:33–37; Psalm 49:15
Mar 2 – Repentance and Renewal
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for clean hearts and renewed spirits.
Scriptures: Psalm 51:10–12; Mark 14:38
Mar 3 – Faithfulness in Work and Calling
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray to honor God through excellence, diligence, and integrity at work.
Scriptures: Proverbs 11:1; Colossians 3:23 (paired)
Mar 4 – Trusting God in Adversity
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for steadfast faith during trials.
Scriptures: Psalm 53:4–6; Mark 15:39
Mar 5 – Obedience Without Compromise
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for courage to obey God fully.
Scriptures: Proverbs 11:5–6; Numbers 14:24
Mar 6 – Accountability and Godly Counsel
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for teachable hearts and wise counsel.
Scriptures: Proverbs 11:14; Luke 2:52
Mar 7 – Disciplined Words and Attitudes
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for speech that builds and glorifies God.
Scriptures: Proverbs 11:9; Psalm 57:7
Mar 8 – Persevering in God's Strength
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for endurance empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Scriptures: Psalm 62:5–7; Luke 3:16
Mar 9 – Faithfulness Over Time
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for lasting faithfulness, not temporary enthusiasm.
Scriptures: Proverbs 11:3; Luke 4:1–2
COMMITTED TO DESTINY
Embracing God's purposes for our lives and families
Mar 10 – Trusting God's Plan
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for trust in God's purposes beyond our understanding.
Scriptures: Proverbs 11:4; Psalm 64:10
Mar 11 – Called to Bear Fruit
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for fruitful lives that glorify God.
Scriptures: Psalm 65:11; Luke 5:10–11
Mar 12 – Generosity and Kingdom Impact
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for generous hearts advancing God's Kingdom.
Scriptures: Proverbs 11:24–25; Psalm 66:8–9
Mar 13 – God's Blessing for God's Glory
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray that blessing leads to witness, not comfort.
Scriptures: Psalm 67:1–2; Luke 6:38
Mar 14 – Choosing Obedience Daily
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for daily choices aligned with God's will.
Scriptures: Proverbs 11:27; Deuteronomy 4:1
Mar 15 – Remembering God's Faithfulness
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for gratitude that fuels hope.
Scriptures: Psalm 68:19–20; Luke 7:22
Mar 16 – Spiritual Growth and Maturity
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for growth in Christlike character.
Scriptures: Proverbs 12:1; Luke 7:47
Mar 17 – Living with Eternal Perspective
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for lives shaped by eternity.
Scriptures: Psalm 69:30–31; Luke 8:15
Mar 18 – Courage to Follow God Fully
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for bold faith that trusts God completely.
Scriptures: Proverbs 12:4; Luke 8:25
Mar 19 – Passing Faith to the Next Generation
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for faith-filled families and legacy.
Scriptures: Psalm 71:17–18; Deuteronomy 11:19
COMMITTED TO DEPLOYMENT
Living on mission in our communities, workplaces, and world
Mar 20 – Sent by God
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for readiness to be sent wherever God leads.
Scriptures: Luke 9:2; Psalm 72:18–19
Mar 21 – Compassion in Action
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for love that moves us to action.
Scriptures: Luke 10:33–35; Proverbs 12:10
Mar 22 – Witness Through Our Work
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray that our work becomes a platform for God's glory.
Scriptures: Luke 10:2; Proverbs 12:11
Mar 23 – Serving with Humility
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for servant hearts empowered by the Spirit.
Scriptures: Luke 11:13; Psalm 76:9
Mar 24 – Courageous Kingdom Living
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for obedience that impacts nations.
Scriptures: Deuteronomy 28:1–2; Luke 11:28
Mar 25 – Faith in the Public Square
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for bold faith in professional and civic life.
Scriptures: Proverbs 12:12; Psalm 77:14
Mar 26 – Unity in the Body of Christ
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for unity that strengthens our witness.
Scriptures: Psalm 133:1; Luke 11:17
Mar 27 – Persevering in Mission
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for endurance in God's calling.
Scriptures: Proverbs 12:15; Luke 12:35
Mar 28 – Living as Light
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray that our lives shine God's truth everywhere we go.
Scriptures: Proverbs 12:18; Matthew 5:16 (paired)
Mar 29 – Fully Committed to God's Kingdom
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for lifelong commitment to advancing God's Kingdom for God's glory and generations to come.
Scriptures: Luke 9:62; Psalm 78:4
COMMITTED TO ENDURANCE AND COMMISSIONING
Finishing strong and living fully sent
Mar 30 – Finishing with Faithfulness
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for grace to remain faithful and focused through the entirety of this fast and beyond.
Scriptures: Proverbs 12:9; Luke 9:62
Mar 31 – Strength for the Journey
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for renewed spiritual strength, endurance, and reliance on God's power.
Scriptures: Psalm 73:26; Luke 10:19
Apr 1 – Obedience that Produces Fruit
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for lives marked by obedience that results in visible Kingdom fruit.
Scriptures: Deuteronomy 28:13; Luke 11:28
Apr 2 – A Public Witness for Christ
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray for bold, consistent witness in workplaces, neighborhoods, and communities.
Scriptures: Proverbs 12:26; Matthew 5:14–16
Apr 3 – A Commissioned People
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray with expectation to be sent daily as ambassadors of Christ.
Scriptures: John 20:21; Acts 1:8
Apr 4 – Fully Committed, Fully Deployed
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray a prayer of consecration offering our lives, work, families, and future fully to God.
Scriptures: Romans 12:1–2; Matthew 28:18–20
Apr 5 – His Mission
Choose your fast
Prayer Focus: Pray a prayer of submission to being Jesus' witness wherever He places you.
Scriptures: Acts 1:8
Foods to INCLUDE in your Daniel Fast
One of the great things about the Daniel Fast is that you are not limited to any specific amount of food, but rather to the kinds of food you can eat. The Daniel Fast is limited to vegetables (includes fruits) and water.
Fruits
All fresh, frozen, or dried fruits are permitted
Vegetables
Fresh, frozen, or dried vegetables
Whole Grains
Brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole wheat
Nuts & Seeds
All nuts, seeds, and legumes
Healthy Oils
Quality oils like olive and canola
Pure Water
Water and natural seasonings
Tofu, soy products, vinegar, seasonings, salt, herbs and spices are also permitted.
Foods to AVOID on the Daniel Fast
Please make sure to READ THE LABEL when purchasing packaged, canned or bottled foods. They should be sugar-free and chemical-free. Keep this in mind as you review this list of acceptable foods.