“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” – Hebrews 11:6
Fasting and prayer are acts of faith, and faith is fueled by expectancy. When we fast, we are not just abstaining from food or distractions; we are declaring our belief that God is who He says He is and that He will do what He has promised. This expectancy positions us to receive His blessings, guidance, and breakthroughs.
On this ninth day of fasting, let’s reflect on the power of approaching God with a heart full of faith and expectation, trusting Him to move mightily in our lives.
What is Expectancy?
Expectancy is faith in action. It’s more than hope—it’s a confident belief that God will fulfill His Word. In Hebrews 11:6, we are reminded that faith is essential to please God, and that includes believing not only in His existence but also in His goodness and willingness to reward those who seek Him.
Fasting amplifies our expectancy because it aligns our hearts with God’s promises. It creates space for us to focus on His faithfulness and to anticipate His intervention in our circumstances. When we fast with expectancy, we are essentially saying, “Lord, I trust You. I believe that You are working, even if I can’t see it yet.”
Fasting as a Declaration of Faith
When we fast, we demonstrate our trust in God’s ability to provide, protect, and fulfill His promises. Fasting says, “Lord, I depend on You more than I depend on food, comfort, or anything else in this world.” This act of surrender builds faith, allowing us to confidently expect His presence and power.
Throughout Scripture, we see fasting paired with expectancy. In 2 Chronicles 20, King Jehoshaphat called for a national fast when faced with a great enemy. He declared, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You” (2 Chronicles 20:12). His faith and expectation were rewarded when God delivered them in a miraculous way.
Similarly, in Joel 2:25-26, God promises restoration and abundance following a time of fasting and repentance: “So I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten… You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied.” These examples remind us that fasting with expectancy opens the door for God’s provision, restoration, and victory.
The Role of Faith in Expectancy
Expectancy requires faith. It means trusting God’s character, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Faith is not about seeing the outcome before it happens; it’s about believing in the One who controls the outcome.
Jesus frequently connected faith with miracles. When the woman with the issue of blood reached out to touch His garment, she did so with the expectancy that she would be healed. Jesus affirmed her faith, saying, “Daughter, your faith has made you well” (Mark 5:34).
Similarly, our fasting must be paired with faith. Without faith, fasting becomes a ritual; with faith, it becomes a powerful declaration that we trust God to move.
How to Cultivate Expectancy During Your Fast
- Focus on God’s Promises: Spend time meditating on Scripture that speaks to God’s faithfulness and ability to provide. Let His Word strengthen your faith.
- Pray Boldly: Bring your requests before God with confidence, believing that He hears and answers prayer.
- Celebrate His Goodness: Take time to thank God for what He has already done and for what He is going to do. Gratitude fuels faith and expectancy.
- Speak Life: Use your words to declare God’s promises over your life. Speak with expectancy, trusting that He is working in your favor.
- Anticipate Breakthrough: Fast with the expectation that God will bring clarity, healing, and restoration. Keep your eyes fixed on Him, even when the answers seem delayed.
Reflection Questions
- What are you expecting God to do during this fast?
- How can you grow in faith and trust as you seek Him?
- Are there areas in your life where doubt or fear has overshadowed your expectancy?
Fasting with expectancy is an act of faith that honors God and positions us to experience His power. As you continue this journey, let your heart be filled with confidence in His promises. Trust that He is working, even in ways you cannot see, and anticipate the good things He has in store for you. Let this day be a reminder that God is faithful and able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).
Ron Eivaz Blog 