21 Days of Fasting and Prayer
For the past several years, Metro has intentionally begun each new year with a focused season of prayer and fasting. This sacred rhythm has become a defining spiritual marker for our church—one that helps us realign our hearts, deepen our dependence on God, and step into the year with faith, clarity, and expectation.
This year’s 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting will take place Monday, January 5 through Sunday, January 25. Throughout these three weeks, we will intentionally seek the Lord both individually and corporately, laying a strong spiritual foundation for the year ahead.
To participate, simply click the link to join the prayer and fasting Subsplash group.
What to Expect…
All participants will receive a daily text and/or Scripture verse from Pastor Cornell and various ministry leaders. In addition, several special prayer opportunities will be offered throughout the fast, creating space for both personal and shared moments with the Lord. We encourage you to stay tuned and engage as the Holy Spirit leads you.
You can also enrich your experience by taking advantage of the additional growth opportunities outlined below. We believe these 21 days will be a meaningful time of renewal, focus, and spiritual strengthening for our entire church family.
Why We Fast…
In John 3:30, John the Baptist declares, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” Fasting and prayer provide a tangible way for us to live out this truth.
Fasting is not merely about abstaining from food; it is about intentionally creating space for more of Jesus in our lives. It is the dedication of our time, attention, and energy toward God—removing distractions and setting aside anything that may hinder our sensitivity to His voice, His Word, or His work in and through us.
In short, fasting is about more of Him and less of us—our desires, preferences, and plans—so that we may become more like Christ in our everyday lives. Remember, the power of fasting has far less to do with food and far more to do with being set apart for focused prayer, worship, and spiritual attentiveness.
How Do You Fast…
There are several biblically grounded and practical ways to fast. We encourage you to prayerfully consider which option is most appropriate for you at this time.
Full Fast.
A full or biblical fast is when only water is consumed. This would be the type practiced by Elijah (1 Kings 19:8) and Jesus (Matthew 4). Both Jesus and Elijah abstained from food for 40 days.
Important Note: A full fast should only be undertaken after receiving medical clearance from your primary care physician. Please consult your doctor before choosing this option.
Partial Fast.
• DANIEL FAST
Based on the fasting principles found in Daniel 1 and 10, this fast consists primarily of fruits, vegetables, and water. Daniel abstained from rich foods, meat, and wine during his time of consecration.
For additional information and resources, visit daniel-fast.com.
• JUICE FAST
A juice fast replaces solid food with vegetable juices, fruit juices, and water. Some also include whey protein as part of their liquid plan. Others choose to substitute liquids for one or two meals per day. This is a popular and effective approach for many.
Selective Fast.
A selective fast involves abstaining from specific activities or items that consume time, attention, or energy. Examples include entertainment, television, social media, sports, video games, or secular music. Others may choose to eliminate particular foods such as sugar, caffeine, soda, or sweets.
This option is especially helpful for those who are new to fasting or who have dietary or medical limitations, while still allowing for meaningful spiritual focus and discipline.
Scriptural References for Fasting
Both the Old and New Testaments speaks of the practice and importance of fasting. These passages provide insight, instruction, warnings and guidance regarding the practice of fasting. See some of these crucial passages below:
Corporate Fasting Options
In addition to personal fasting, our prayer and fasting campaign includes several corporate components designed to strengthen our unity and shared spiritual focus.
1. Daily Time of Prayer | Colossians 4:2
All participants are encouraged to set aside at least 10 minutes each weekday, anytime between 6:00–10:00am, for focused prayer.
Monday: Faith
Tuesday: Families (yours and others)
Wednesday: Friends
Thursday: Finances (personal, others, and the church)
Friday: The Future (yours, others, the church, and our community)
2. Subsplash Prayer and Fasting Devotional | Proverbs 2:3-5
This daily digital devotional experience allows you to engage Scripture, reflect personally, and interact with others throughout the fast.
To join:
Download the Metro Subsplash app
Click the link to join the Prayer & Fasting Group
Participate in the daily devotional and discussion as you are able
Simple, meaningful, and transformational.
3. Pre-Service Prayer Groups | Psalm 122:1
Each Sunday during the fast, pre-service prayer will take place from 9:00–9:30am. Participants will gather in small groups of 2–3 people for a time of focused prayer as we prepare our hearts for worship.
We look forward to walking through these 21 days together—seeking God, sharpening our faith, and stepping into the new year with confidence and expectation.
Blessings to you and your household.
“We as believers must understand that fasting isn’t about us or about getting what we want from God. It’s not a religious spectacle, spiritual elitism or even a divine weight loss program. Yet, it’s really about focusing our hearts to come into alignment with His heart that we might become more like His Son.”
— Pastor Cornell