40 Days of prayer & fasting
As we begin a new year, we’re setting aside intentional time to seek God, listen for His voice, and open our hearts to renewal, personally and as a church community.WHY NOW?
We believe God is stirring renewed vision and expectancy among us as a church, not calling us to something entirely new, but inviting us to step more fully into what He is already doing.
As we begin this year, we want to respond with prayerful dependence. Prayer and fasting help us slow down and listen, allowing God to shape our hearts while also calling out to Him to move beyond us. We are seeking not only personal renewal, but transformation in our church, our neighborhoods, our workplaces, our schools, and our families.
These 40 days are about making space. Space to be formed by God’s presence, and space to cry out for His Kingdom to come in our city and through our community, in His way and in His time. This is not about striving or spiritual performance. It’s about drawing near.
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.”
James 4:8
How We’ll Walk Through This Together
- Weekly encouragement during Sunday services
- Resources and guidance for fasting and prayer
- Prayer Room available for rest, grace, and adjustment – Book here!
- Prayer walking available through Holy Here app
- Midweek group opportunities to pray and worship as a community
You can participate in a way that fits your life, season, and spiritual journey.
How to Choose a Fast
Fasting is voluntarily giving up something that normally fills your time, attention, or appetite in order to create more space for God.
Here are a few common ways people fast:
Food-based fasts
- Complete fast: liquids only (with wisdom and medical consideration)
- Partial fast: skipping a meal or fasting during certain hours
- Selective fast: removing specific foods (often called a “Daniel Fast”)
Non-food fasts
- Social media
- Streaming, TV or reducing screen time
- News or entertainment consumption
If health or life circumstances make food fasting difficult, a non-food fast is a meaningful and valid option.
Important reminder:
Listen to your body. Seek God’s guidance. Choose a fast that is challenging but sustainable.
Praying Together in our Prayer Room
Throughout these 40 days, we are also creating space to pray together in our Prayer Room.
The Prayer Room is a quiet, come-and-go space designed to help us slow down, listen, and respond to God. To help steward the space well and ensure it remains available throughout the day, we ask everyone to sign up for one-hour prayer slots. If prayer feels unfamiliar or intimidating, you are especially welcome.
The Prayer Room includes simple prayer stations that gently guide you through different ways of praying — worship, listening, confession, gratitude, and intercession. These stations are designed to support every person, no matter how much experience you have with prayer.
You don’t need special words. You don’t need a plan. You don’t need to fill the hour with talking. Simply come, be present with God, and let the Holy Spirit lead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to fast the entire 40 days?
No. Depending on what you are fasting, some people may fast for a portion of the day each day, one day each week, or a different cadence. Choose what is right for you.
What if I miss a day or struggle?
Grace is part of the journey. And fasting is often challenging. But this is not about perfection, it’s about posture.
Is fasting safe?
If you have health concerns, we encourage choosing a non-food fast and consulting a medical professional if needed.
Can kids or teens participate?
Yes, in age-appropriate ways. Parents are encouraged to guide their children with wisdom and grace.
What if I’ve never fasted before?
That’s okay. Start small. God honors willingness, not experience.
How do I use the prayer room?
The Prayer Room at our Lakewood Vineyard offices are available to book at one hour slots. The space is set up with stations to encourage prayer and reflection. You can use your time in whatever way is helpful to you.
JOIN US!
We believe God wants to meet you in this season.
Whether you participate fully or partially, quietly or communally, you are invited to step into these 40 days with us.