Paul knew the storm was coming. He had warned them, told them it wasn’t a good time to sail, but the captain and the owner of the ship thought they knew better. The weather seemed fine at first, a gentle breeze pushing them along, and they figured Paul was just being overly cautious. But then, out of nowhere, the wind turned. And it wasn’t just any wind—this was Euroclydon, a violent northeastern storm, the kind that made even seasoned sailors afraid.
For days, the ship was tossed around like a leaf in the wind. The men worked frantically, throwing cargo overboard to keep the ship from sinking. They didn’t eat, barely slept, and fear wrapped around them like the cold sea mist. They thought they were going to die. But in the middle of that chaos, Paul stood up. He wasn’t a sailor, he wasn’t the captain, but he had something none of them had—peace.
“Men, you should have listened to me,” he said, not to boast, but to remind them that wisdom often comes before disaster. “But take heart! Not a single one of you will die—only the ship will be lost.” And then he told them something incredible. “Last night, an angel of God came to me and said, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar, and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.’” In other words, no matter how bad the storm got, God was still in control.
Sure enough, after two weeks of being beaten by the wind and waves, they ran aground on an island—Malta. The ship was wrecked, but every single person made it to shore, just as Paul had said. And because of that storm, Paul ended up in a place where God worked miracles. A snake bit him, and he didn’t die, shocking the locals. He healed the chief’s father and many others, and the people of Malta, who had never known the true God, saw His power firsthand.
The storm seemed like a disaster, but it was actually part of God’s plan. That’s how it is with life, isn’t it? We try to avoid trouble, but sometimes, no matter what we do, the storm comes anyway. And when it does, we have a choice—panic like the sailors, or trust like Paul. Because in every storm, there’s a purpose. Sometimes, God is redirecting us. Sometimes, He’s teaching us to let go. And sometimes, He’s just showing us that no matter how hard the wind blows, He’s still in charge.
This is the essence of faith—trusting that God knows what He’s doing, even when the waves are high and the sky is dark. Just like fasting requires faith that God will sustain us, the storms of life require faith that He will lead us safely to shore.
This is the message of The Rich Feast, The Poor Fast—learning to trust God’s timing, His provision, and His purpose, even when the winds howl around us. Because whether in feasting or fasting, in calm or in storm, God is always faithful.
Read how this book can transform your mind. Never preached in most churches today.
🌅 Testimonial: A Journey of Transformation and Spiritual Awakening
Good morning, brothers Noel. As I delve into “The Rich Feast The Poor Fast,” I am captivated by its eloquence and depth. The chapters on stewardship, humility in wealth, and the symbolism of 40 days resonate deeply with me. Initially questioning their connection to fasting, I now see their profound significance and wisdom. I look forward to sharing more insights once I complete this enriching read!
Currently, I find myself on day 3 of a water fast—a spiritual journey that I felt called to as preparation for a longer, deeper fast ahead. Unsure of its duration, I’m listening intently to my body and spirit for guidance. In this pivotal time, I seek Biblical wisdom to illuminate my path.
Fasting has already unveiled a deeper connection to my faith and purpose. It’s not merely about abstaining from food; it’s a transformative experience of self-discovery and spiritual renewal. Each moment of hunger and introspection brings me closer to understanding the divine plan for my life.
As I continue this journey, I invite you to join me in exploring the transformative power of fasting at The Rich Feast The Poor Fast. Together, let’s embrace the spiritual awakening that comes from aligning our physical discipline with our spiritual growth.
May our hearts and minds be open to the wisdom of fasting, guiding us toward a deeper connection with God and ourselves.
Bridging the Testaments: Peacemakers and the Fulfillment of Scripture
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus redefined the concept of peace, calling His followers to be active agents of reconciliation. Speaking to a crowd longing for deliverance from Roman oppression, He introduced a radical vision of peacemaking that emphasized restoration, harmony, and divine kinship. This message echoed and fulfilled Old Testament teachings on peace, particularly Isaiah 9:6, which foretold a “Prince of Peace,” and Psalm 34:14, which urged believers to “seek peace and pursue it.”
Jesus’ beatitude calls believers to live out their divine identity by reflecting God’s character as the ultimate reconciler. To be a peacemaker is to actively work for healing in relationships and communities, embodying the wholeness (shalom) God desires for all creation. This pursuit is not passive but intentional, requiring forgiveness, unity, and advocacy for justice and harmony in personal and societal contexts.
For modern Christians, Matthew 5:9 is both a challenge and an invitation. It reminds us that peacemaking aligns us with Christ’s mission and secures our place as “sons of God.” In a world often marked by conflict, this beatitude calls us to embody the peace of Christ, bringing reconciliation and joy wherever we go.
Read more on how Jesus bridges the Testaments: Explore More >>
The Importance of Faith, Prayer, and Fasting in Overcoming Life’s Challenges
One common misconception about Christian fasting, particularly in reference to Old Testament practices, is that it no longer holds relevance today or is not a commandment for modern believers. Some use this misunderstanding as a reason to bypass the spiritual discipline of fasting, yet such an approach overlooks its vital role in the Christian life.
In the ancient town of Capernaum, a father approached Jesus with a heart full of hope and sorrow. His son, plagued by severe epilepsy, had not found healing even after the disciples tried and failed to help him. With unwavering faith, the father turned to Jesus, believing that only He could restore his son’s health.
Jesus responded to His disciples, saying, “Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you” (Matthew 17:20). Jesus demonstrated that even the smallest measure of true faith is powerful enough to bring about miraculous results.
He then revealed something essential: “Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting” (Matthew 17:21). In this statement, Jesus illuminated the need for spiritual discipline in facing specific challenges, making it clear that certain trials require not just prayer, but also fasting to draw closer to God’s power and intervention.
This moment took place right after Jesus’ Transfiguration on the mountain, where His divine glory was revealed to Peter, James, and John. As His face shone like the sun and His clothes became radiant, Moses and Elijah appeared, and a voice from heaven declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 17:5). Following this powerful experience, Jesus descended with His disciples to find a crowd gathered, and a grieving father who sought healing for his son.
The father shared the boy’s tragic history, recounting how the spirit often threw him into dangerous situations, attempting to destroy him. He pleaded, “If thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us” (Mark 9:21-22). Jesus responded, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth” (Mark 9:23). The father, deeply moved, cried out, “Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief” (Mark 9:24).
In that moment, Jesus, moved by both authority and compassion, commanded the unclean spirit to depart, and the boy was immediately healed. The crowd stood in awe of the power and mercy displayed before them. Through the intersection of the father’s faith and God’s miraculous power, healing and restoration came to the boy.
Later, the disciples asked Jesus privately, “Why couldn’t we cast him out?” (Matthew 17:19). Jesus explained, “Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you” (Matthew 17:20). He further stressed the significance of prayer and fasting: “Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting” (Matthew 17:21).
Through this experience, Jesus underscored the power of faith, prayer, and fasting in strengthening spiritual resolve and deepening one’s connection with God. The disciples came to understand that true faith, no matter how small, combined with the spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting, had the power to overcome even the most difficult obstacles. Jesus showed that with steadfast faith and devotion, believers could unlock God’s limitless power and face any challenge, no matter how daunting.
As the disciples continued their journey, they applied these teachings in their ministry, witnessing miracles, healings, and divine interventions, all fueled by their deep faith and connection to God.
“The spirit of man rises when the mind and heart unite, for the belly is a great obedient servant.”
Have you ever wondered about the spiritual depth of fasting? Perhaps you’ve heard that biblical fasting can draw you closer to God.
Fasting is a powerful spiritual discipline practised for centuries. Many of the great figures in the Bible, like Moses and Jesus, fasted to seek God’s guidance and presence. But how can this ancient practice be relevant to us today?
1. What is Biblical Fasting?
Biblical fasting involves abstaining from food for a spiritual purpose. It’s about dedicating time to focus on God, prayer, and reflection.
2. Why Fast for 40 Days and Nights?
The 40-day fast is significant in the Bible. Moses fasted before receiving the Ten Commandments, and Jesus fasted in the wilderness. It’s a time for deep spiritual cleansing and transformation. The number 40 in the bible.
3. Avoiding the Appeal to Authority
Just because a religious leader or preacher advocates fasting doesn’t mean it’s the only way to spiritual growth. This is known as the “Appeal to Authority” fallacy. True understanding and practice come from personal conviction and experience, not just because someone in authority says so.
4. Can Fasting Help You Overcome Spiritual Challenges?
Fasting can bring clarity and strength. By denying the body, we nourish the spirit, helping us overcome personal and spiritual obstacles.
5. Creating a Personal Fasting Plan
Start by setting clear spiritual goals. What do you hope to achieve or understand through your fast? Plan your fast in a way that aligns with your health and commitments.
6. Connecting with God During Your Fast
Use this time to deepen your prayer life. Read scripture, meditate, and listen for God’s voice. This focused time can bring profound insights and peace.
7. Support and Community
Fasting with others can provide encouragement and accountability. Join a group or find a fasting partner to share experiences and support each other.
Remember, the goal of fasting is not just physical abstinence but spiritual abundance. As you embark on this journey, seek God wholeheartedly and be open to the transformation He can bring.
When Jesus spoke these words, he was addressing a crowd of Jews who believed in him. He was explaining that true freedom comes from knowing and embracing the truth, specifically the truth that he is the Son of God and the Savior of mankind.
In a broader sense, Jesus was referring to the spiritual freedom that can be experienced by embracing his teachings and the message of salvation. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the truth about our sinful nature, our need for redemption, and the transformative power of his sacrifice on the cross.
By accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are set free from the bondage of sin and its consequences. This freedom encompasses not only forgiveness for our past sins but also liberation from the power of sin in our daily lives.
Furthermore, the truth that Jesus is referring to extends beyond mere intellectual knowledge. It involves a personal relationship with him, a deep and heartfelt belief in his teachings, and a willingness to live in accordance with his commandments.
Through this truth, we find a renewed sense of purpose, hope, and eternal life in God’s kingdom. It is a freedom that transcends worldly circumstances and grants us the assurance of God’s love and presence.
So, my dear friend, let us seek the truth that Jesus offers, embrace his teachings, and experience the freedom that comes through knowing him as our Lord and Savior.
Father, I thank you for the precious blood of Christ poured out for me as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. I thank you the blood of Jesus pleads for me mercy and all the provisions of your grace. I thank you that Jesus Christ gives me access into your holy presence and has purchased for me eternal redemption.
I declare, affirm and bear witness to what the word says about Jesus Christ has done for me. I am justified and forgiven by the blood Christ. The blood cleanses me from every sin and removes God’s wrath from me. I am sanctified, wholly set apart through the offering of the body of Christ once for all. I have been purchased for God’s eternal possession by the blood of Jesus. The blood has redeemed me from the guilt and power of sin and I am set free from the empty way of life handed down to me from my forefathers. The blood of Christ purges my conscience and sets me free from the dead works of religion in order that I may serve the living God. The blood redeems me from the curse of the law in my life and that of my ancestors.
The blood is God’s covenant seal upon my life. I am secure and made safe from every evil and every guile of the enemy by the blood of Jesus. I am victorious over Satan who is defeated and destroyed, driven out and disarmed by the power of His blood. By the blood I overcome the evil one and destroy his every work. The blood is my assurance of God’s goodness and the binding guarantee of His faithfulness in all situations. The blood is my legal claim to every promise and the entrance into my inheritance in Christ.
Father, I thank you that the spirit now bears witness to the blood of Christ in my life and brings the riches of your blessing upon me. Amen
