7 Days of Chasing First
Humble. Pray. Seek. Turn.
A Prayer Journey Based on 2 Chronicles 7:14
We will be gathering Monday–Friday, January 12–16, for morning corporate prayer and worship from 6:30–7:14 AM in the Worship Center.
Matthew 6:33 Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
FASTING
The goal of fasting is to draw nearer to God. Biblical fasting always has to do with eliminating distractions for a spiritual purpose; it hits the reset button of our soul and renews us from the inside out. It also enables us to celebrate the goodness and mercy of God and prepares our hearts for all the good things God desires to bring into our lives. Remember, your fast should present a level of challenge, but it is very important to know your body, and your options, and, most importantly, to seek God in prayer and follow what the Holy Spirit leads you to do.
Types of Fasts
Complete Fast
In this type of fast, you drink only liquids, typically water only or light juices as an option, for prayer, clarity, dependence on God, and a deeper connection to Jesus.
Selective Fast
This type of fast involves removing certain elements from your diet, like removing alcohol, caffeine, or sugar, to increase spiritual practices.
Partial Fast
This fast is sometimes called the “Jewish Fast” and involves abstaining from eating any type of food from sun up to sundown for prayer, reflection, and spiritual focus.
Soul Fast
A soul fast is ideal if you’re new to fasting or unable to fast food. Instead of meals, you step away from distractions like social media or streaming to create space for God.
Suggested Reading Schedule
Day 1 – Hunger and Focus
Our pursuit begins when God’s people humble themselves and shift their focus from self to Him. Hunger for God grows as we intentionally seek His face above every distraction.
Psalm 27:8 (ESV)
You have said, ‘Seek my face.’ My heart says to you, ‘Your face, Lord, do I seek.
Day 2 – Repentance and Realignment
True repentance is a turning of the heart that realigns our lives with God and His ways. As we turn from what pulls us away from God, we rediscover intimacy with the One who calls us His own.
2 Chronicles 7:14 (ESV)
If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
Day 3 – Listening and Trust
Prayer is not just speaking to God but trusting Him enough to listen and respond. As we seek His face, we learn to trust Him over our own understanding.
Proverbs 3:5 (ESV)
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
Day 4 – Abiding and Dependence
Seeking God’s face is an invitation to remain in His presence daily, not just in moments of need. Dependence replaces striving when we anchor our lives in Him.
John 15:4 (ESV)
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.
Day 5 – Obedience and Surrender
Humility leads us to surrender our will and walk in obedience to God’s ways. Turning from sin is not loss but freedom that opens the way for renewal.
James 4:7 (ESV)
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Day 6 – Perseverance and Formation
Perhaps more than any other way, God uses persistent prayer and faithful repentance to shape our character. As we continue to seek and wait on Him, He forms us into a new creation.
Romans 12:12 (ESV)
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Day 7 – Worship and Mission
When God hears from heaven and forgives, lives are restored and communities are renewed. A healed people become a worshiping and sent people who reflect God’s glory to the world.
Isaiah 6:8 (ESV)
“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here I am! Send me.’”
We believe part of pursuing God is spending significant time in his word. The SOAP process is designed to give structure to your study. Open up to the suggested passage for this month and then spend equal time on each part of the SOAP process. It is best to have a pen and journal so you can keep a record of your time but it is not mandatory.
HOW TO S.O.A.P.
Scripture… Observation… Application… Prayer
S
Open your Bible to your reading for the day. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you and write it in your journal.
O
What do you think the scripture you read meant to the people it was written to in their context? What do you think the Lord is saying to you through this passage?
A
Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this scripture can apply to you today.
P
This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this scripture or even a prayer for a greater insight on what He may be revealing to you. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say!