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FASTINGIN THE FOOTSTEPS OF

JESUSA 21-Day Fasting Journey Through the Holy Land >>

JENTEZEN FRANKLIN

Fasting in the Footsteps of JesusA 21-Day Fasting Journey Through the Holy Land

By Jentezen Franklin

Published 2015 by Jentezen Franklin Media Ministries, Gainesville, GA A Jentezen Franklin Media Ministries Publication

ISBN: 978-0-9833264-3-4

Editing/Graphic Design by Roark Creative www.roarkcreative.com

Jentezen Franklin Media MinistriesP.O. Box 315 Gainesville, GA 30503888-333-0049

jentezenfranklin.org

Printed and bound in the United States of America.

CONTENTS

Day 1 Judean Desert 7Day 2 Mount of Olives 9Day 3 Mount of Beatitudes 11Day 4 Sea of Galilee 13Day 5 Beit She’an 15Day 6 Caesarea 17Day 7 The Western Wall 19Day 8 The Temple Steps 21Day 9 The Pool of Bethesda 23Day 10 The Garden of Gethsemane 25Day 11 Valley of Gehenna 27Day 12 Calvary / Golgotha 29Day 13 The Steps to Caiaphas’ House 31Day 14 Judean Desert 33Day 15 Sea of Galilee Area 35Day 16 The Potter’s Field / Dome of the Rock 37Day 17 The Western Wall 39Day 18 Qumran 41Day 19 Caiaphas’ Dungeon 43Day 20 The Garden Tomb 45Day 21 The Upper Room 47

INTRODUCTION

When I was in the Holy Land, following in the steps of Jesus, I was struck

by a number of powerful revelations about fasting. As I visited one meaningful location after another, I began to see each one as part of God’s complete plan for the divine discipline of fasting. In this unique resource, I am pleased to share 21 life-changing teachings that the Holy Spirit inspired in me while I was in the Holy Land. I am praying that each daily teaching will encourage and inspire your personal journey of fasting and faith. I believe that this resource will help you discover how your commitment to fasting and prayer today connects you with God’s timeless eternal plan, and that you begin to see the power of fasting through the eyes of those who walked the earth during Biblical times.

God wants you to increase all areas of your life. God bless you as you seek His will in prayer and fasting.

For more information about fasting visitjentezenfranklin.org.

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HOLY LAND JOURNAL ENTRY

Today I stood in the hot sand of the Judean wilderness, the place where Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights for you and for me. I could imagine Him walking on this same hot sand and being tempted by Satan. I began to think about the strength that Jesus showed here in the desert, and I know that the same power that strengthened Him when He was tempted will give me strength to withstand the temptations of my own life. — JF

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Day 1

JUDEAN DESERT

As we begin our 21-day fast, remember that Adam lost his intimate relationship with God by eating. You and I still suffer the

consequences of that forbidden bite. But the second Adam, Jesus Christ, regained authority by fasting. Scripture said He ate no bread, no food, for 40 days and 40 nights. Even more incredible, Jesus didn’t fast in the comfort of His home. He was in the hot Judean Desert! That’s what really touches me. He was in the wilderness where the harsh elements and conditions mercilessly punished His body.

After three, five, seven days without food, anyone begins to feel weak. But Jesus was in the desert 40 days without food! No wonder the Bible said that after He was tempted of the devil, “angels came and ministered to Him” (Matthew 4:11). That is precious to me and gives me great encouragement. Somewhere in the mountains of Judea, an angel was dispatched at the end of that 40-day fast.

Today as you begin your fast, I want to remind you of one thing that happens in scripture over and over and over . . . when people fast, angels are released.

Be blessed today as you fast and as you pray, knowing that your Savior fasted for you. There is strength in the name of Jesus and He set the example for us all in the wilderness of Judea.

Today as you begin this spiritual journey, this is my prayer for you:Lord, I pray for angels to be released. I pray for release of supernatural help. Dispatch help to your sons and daughters, not just natural help, but supernatural help. I believe God for angelic forces to fight on your behalf, to protect and watch over you, to minister to the heirs of salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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From the Mount of Olives, I looked down and saw the city of Jerusalem. I felt God’s presence so strongly! It was such an incredible feeling to know that God’s Spirit was surrounding me in that sacred place, just as God’s Spirit surrounded the Ark of the Covenant there so long ago. — JF

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Day 2

MOUNT OF OLIVES

I remember how close to God I felt when I overlooked Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives. In Jerusalem, the city of the Holy of

the Holies, the glory of God came down and filled the temple that Solomon built.

“Then the priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the LORD to its place, into the inner sanctuary of the temple, to the Most Holy Place,

under the wings of the cherubim.”—1 Kings 8:6

“And it came to pass, when the priests came out of the holy place, that the cloud filled the house of

the LORD, so that the priests could not continue ministering because of the cloud; for the glory of

the LORD filled the house of the LORD.”—1 Kings 8:10-11

Jerusalem is where people came to be near God and experience His presence as much as they could. God has provided us a way to be near to Him from any location—through prayer and fasting. When you fast and pray, you enter into the Holy of Holies!

I’m praying on the second day of your fast that you will experience the presence of God like you’ve never experienced before . . . the real reward of fasting is that you get more of Him! Every fast I’ve ever taken has drawn me closer to the Lord and I know your fast will do the same for you.

My prayer for you is:Lord, may your presence fill the temple of the heart and soul as your child makes a sacrificial effort today. Envelop and touch him or her and extend new communion and fellowship with Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Walking along the Mount of Beatitudes today blessed me! Jesus Himself taught from this very location. As someone who preaches, you can imagine how I felt knowing His feet touched the ground that I walked on. People gathered around to hear His teaching. The Words of Scripture seem to be so alive here – they seem to jump off the page! — JF

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Day 3

MOUNT OF BEATITUDES

The Mount of Beatitudes is where Jesus taught one of His great lessons, The Beatitudes. You may already be familiar with this

teaching but, as we fast together on this 21-day spiritual journey, I believe His Words offer us special encouragement.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

— Matthew 5:6By now the days of hunger have your body crying out for food.

Take heart! Don’t give up. Through your sacrifice, you are saying to God, “I’m hungry for you.” Jesus understands what you are going through. When you hunger for God, you will be filled! Jesus promised it!

Also from this spot, Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be

called sons of God.” — Matthew 5:9I believe prayer, fasting and seeking God will give you a peace

that spills over into every area of your life. When you face trials, you will feel peace. When your family is in turmoil, you can have peace. When society falls apart around you, God will grant you peace through this special anointing.

I pray this day:May God fill you with His presence as you hunger after Him. And may the Shalom of God, the peace of God, be upon your marriage, upon your relationships, upon your mind. To every storm that may try to stop you from fasting, I speak peace. No matter what’s going on around you, God’s peace can fill you. Today, I speak that peace over you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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When I visited the Sea of Galilee, I stood in awe as I thought about Jesus walking on this very water! Jesus performed other incredible miracles on the Sea of Galilee—He actually stopped a storm and He multiplied the number of fish in the disciples’ net. He is still God of the supernatural. — JF

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Day 4

SEA OF GALILEE

On the Sea of Galilee while the storm tossed the disciples’ boat, Jesus came walking on the water. Incredible . . . Jesus walked

on the water! And He spoke these powerful words to the disciples: “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27).

Sometimes we forget the sheer power God demonstrated during Jesus’ time on earth. Because of what Jesus did on the Sea of Galilee, in the wilderness and especially on the cross, we don’t have to fear. We serve the God of power and victory. When you fast, you gain access to that spiritual reservoir of power.

On another occasion, Jesus was in the boat and they woke Him up in the middle of a storm. He said, “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39), and the sea was calm. Today you might be going through a storm. Don’t be surprised that the enemy is fighting you as you fast and pray. Right in the middle of the fast a storm can come up suddenly. But I speak peace to you, in Jesus’ name.

We serve an almighty God who can bring peace even in the midst of the worst storm. God is our deliverer and our peace-speaker. He is Jehovah Shalom, the Lord our peace.

Today, I pray:Lord, send Your healing and peace-giving power. May You grant peace in the home and in the mind. Surround your child with Your arms of protection, even during the most challenging times. Offer hope and the peace of God that surpasses all human understanding. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Beit She’an is an ancient city in Northern Israel with many archeological sites and ancient ruins. But for me, it is a city that holds much sadness and also a warning. Here, a once-great man of God met a tragic end because of his pride. — JF

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Day 5

BEIT SHE’AN

Beit She’an is the ancient city where the bodies of King Saul and his son Jonathan were taken and hung from the gates of the

city. It was a sad and tragic ending for a king who began as God’s humble servant.

The Bible said when Saul was first approached to be anointed as king he hid because he was so humble. The prophet said, “When you were little in your own eyes, were you not head of the tribes of Israel? And did not the LORD anoint you king over Israel?” (1 Samuel 15:17).

But as king, his pride took over and brought him to ruin. The Bible said that pride goes before destruction, and that certainly proved true for Saul. They hung the body of Saul from a noose, and mocked him and made fun of him in this city of Beit She’an.

You and I must guard against making the same mistake. When we become arrogant, proud and full of ourselves, God can no longer use us.

Fasting has a way of humbling us before the Lord. Remember, James said, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up” (James 4:10).

Ask God to do a work in your heart concerning pride as you continue your fast. May the spirit of God work humility into your life. In this time of fasting, humble yourself before the mighty hand of God and, in due season, He will exalt you. When you humble yourself, God will raise you up.

Today, I pray on your behalf:Heavenly Father, look into our hearts and minds and cleanse us of the spirit of pride. Bring humbleness and humility into our lives and reveal to us how we can humble ourselves before You. Please accept this fast as a sacrifice of humility. Mold us, shape us and use us for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Between Tel Aviv and Haifa in Israel is the city of Caesarea. It is a beautiful location with a mix of the ancient and the modern, the old and the new . . . and I can just imagine Peter praying to God from here as God ushered out the old covenant and gave Peter a vision of the new. — JF

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Day 6

CAESAREA

Caesarea is where the apostle Peter was fasting and praying when he came out on the rooftop and had a vision. You remember the

story in Acts chapter 10. Peter saw food that he couldn’t eat because it was unclean under Jewish law. And then came the voice, “Kill and eat.” It was God setting him up for the visitation that he would have at the house of Cornelius, a gentile.

It was while Peter was fasting that God gave him the vision. Maybe you are in a season in your life where you don’t really know what the next step is. As you fast on this 21-day spiritual journey, my prayer is that God will show you His vision or, at least the next step to His vision in your life.

Never doubt that God does have a vision for your life. He has a dream, a plan specifically for you. He has an amazing purpose for your life. And He promised that this vision will come to pass.

“For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries,

wait for it; Because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” — Habakkuk 2:3

In 2 Corinthians 12:1, Paul said, “I will come to visions…” God may have given you a dream and you may be wondering, “I don’t know if this thing is going to work out. I know God gave me this dream, this vision, but it’s just not happening.” Hold on. Keep fasting and praying. God will bring about His purpose for your life.

This is my prayer for you today:Father, in the name of Jesus, today I speak blessings over those who are joining us on this fast. I pray that you speak to them today about the vision, the plan, the purpose, the dream that you have for their life. I speak over them that the vision will come to pass. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Today I stood near one of the most sacred sites in Israel – the Western Wall. This wall is the last remaining remnant of the Temple and a place where people gather to praise God and pray for His favor. It was easy to feel God’s presence in this place as I remembered that just on the other side of the Western Wall, God’s glory resided in the Ark of the Covenant. — JF

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Day 7

THE WESTERN WALL

When Rome destroyed the Second Temple in 70 AD, only one outer wall remained standing. The Romans probably would

have destroyed that wall as well, but it must have seemed too insignificant to them; it was not even part of the Temple itself, just an outer wall surrounding the Temple Mount.

For the Jews, however, this remnant of what had been the most sacred building in the Jewish world became the holiest spot in Jewish life. The Western Wall would have been the closest wall to the Ark of the Covenant where the glory of God resided. Throughout the centuries, Jews from throughout the world made the difficult pilgrimage to Palestine, and immediately headed for the Western Wall to thank God. A traditional Jewish custom is to insert a written petition into the cracks of the wall.

The Western Wall is a reminder of the importance of prayer in God’s eyes. This is the great promise that’s found in 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 will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

As you fast and pray, remember to pray for our nations. Pray for our nations’ leaders and pray urgently that God will heal our lands. Listen to the promise given in the next verse: “Now, My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place” (2 Chronicles 7:15). What a powerful promise!

Lord, I offer prayer for the person who is fasting and praying. I ask that you would move in their life in an unprecedented way. Bless them, heal them, set them free, forgive their sins and do mighty miracles in their life. I also pray for America, for our land, for our economy, for our president, for our congress, for all the nations of the world. Heal our lands, oh, God. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Jesus walked these same steps . . . standing on the steps of the temple in Jerusalem is a humbling experience. Amazing! — JF

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Day 8

THE TEMPLE STEPS

The temple steps in the city of Jerusalem date back to the time of Jesus. There is no doubt, no question that He would have walked

on these steps along with His disciples. He would have gathered people together and taught them here.

Near the steps is the pinnacle of the temple where the devil took Jesus during His fast and offered Him the kingdoms of the world if He would bow down and worship.

Jesus understood that when Satan tries to take you high, he wants to bring you low. He uses the high life to entice people. It is the opposite with Jesus. He takes you low. That’s what you’re doing when you fast. You are humbling yourself. After you humble yourself, He lifts you up!

Today, I pray that the spirit of God will be real to you during your fast. I pray that as you fast and pray, you will ascend into the presence of God like never before. May you feel His Spirit. May you humble yourself before God, knowing that, at the right time, He will exalt you.

Heavenly Father, share the spirit of humility with your people as they fast and pray. Once they have been made low, then rebuild them in Your image. Anoint their efforts as they seek You. Surround them with Your Holy Spirit. Give your people wisdom and hope. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Today I’m visiting the Pool of Bethesda, the place where our Lord performed a miracle that changed a man’s life forever. I love visiting the Pool of Bethesda because it reminds me that Jesus hasn’t changed and life-changing miracles still happen! — JF

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Day 9

THE POOL OF BETHESDA

The Pool of Bethesda is where Jesus healed a man who had been unable to stand for 38 years. For 38 years, he had no hope. Then

Jesus came to this very spot and healed him. Thirty-eight years is a long time. Sometimes the devil tells us

something has gone on for so long it is never going to change. Maybe you have long-term bitterness in your family. Or maybe your health has been failing you for years.

As you fast and pray in Jesus’ name, you can break the power of permanency in every area of your life. Together, we can stand in agreement against that long-term difficult situation that has knocked you off your feet.

Nothing is permanent. There’s always hope with Jesus. It’s never too late for a miracle with Jesus. In Mark 9:29 Jesus says, “This kind can come forth by nothing but by prayer and fasting.” Prayer and fasting will bring miracles that can’t happen any other way.

I pray this prayer over your situation today, believing for a miracle!

Lord, I pray for victory over long-term stubborn situations. I stand in agreement with your child and claim a miracle that breaks the power of permanency in bondage, disease or generational curse. Send a blessing of hope and peace to heal the pain and give a fresh start. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Today in the Garden of Gethsemane, surrounded by gnarled olive trees, I could hardly bear to think of the anguish Jesus was going through. This is the place where Jesus prevailed in prayer before His betrayal and crucifixion. If Jesus prayed until drops of blood appeared, I can certainly make time every day to talk to God in prayer. — JF

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Day 10

THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMANE

At the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus defeated the flesh. His spirit conquered the flesh when He said, “Not my will but thine be

done.” What a prayer meeting it must have been! This is where

Jesus prayed for the will of God. On this day, as you fast, I want to encourage you to focus on God’s perfect will for your life. That perfect will comes through prayer.

When you fast and pray, your spirit grows stronger. That is when you begin to discern God’s will for your life.

I’ve asked my mother Katie to write a special prayer for you on this tenth day of our fast:

Father, we come in the name of Jesus, and we thank you for the thousands of people all over the world that are seeking your face for your perfect will in their life. You said fast and pray and give, dear Lord, and we just pray for strength for them today. We pray for the next generation, that you will direct their steps, that you will give them that spirit of enablement that comes from the Holy Ghost to withstand trials, temptations and to be led by You day by day. Lord, You said in Psalm 78, “Tell it to your children, the next generation, of my wonders, my power, my miracles so that they can have a hope in you.” Lord, today we are seeking that hope in You because You give us hope. You give us strength to endure until the end. Direct our every step. We’ll praise You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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I’m visiting the Valley of Gehenna today. While it is green and tranquil now, in ancient times the Valley of Gehenna was not a place you wanted to be in.. . it was a perfect illustration of hell. — JF

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Day 11

VALLEY OF GEHENNA

The Valley of Gehenna is a large area where a perpetual fire burned in ancient times. This is the location that people who

lived in Jerusalem would bring their garbage. A fire burned 24 hours a day, every day, every week, every month.

Of course, anywhere garbage accumulates, there are maggots and worms. From this area, Jesus began to teach about eternal judgment and specifically about hell. Jesus preached a lot about hell. The Valley of Gehenna was an illustrated lesson from Jesus about hell.

Today as you fast and as you pray, remember why we preach the gospel. People are perishing. If people don’t know Jesus Christ, they will go into eternal judgment and suffer the horrors of hell. Hell is real. It is not some imaginary place. Jesus came to save us from our sin and to save us from hell.

Imagine people in your life who are not saved and who are on their way to hell. You can help pluck them from the fire! As you fast and pray, believe God for their salvation. Fasting enables you to target the lost.

Father, in the name of Jesus, I fast and pray for souls. I claim those who are on their way toward hell and eternal damnation. May the presence and the power and the blood of Jesus Christ reach into their lives. I pray for the lost loved ones in your family. I agree with you on this fast that you and your house shall be saved. May this be the year, Lord, for the miracle of salvation and redemption from eternal judgment. I pray for souls. I agree with you that you will be someone that God uses to save souls from hell. Lord, give us the heathen for our inheritance, the uttermost parts of the earth for our possession. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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The place of the skull, Golgotha, is one of the most significant places on earth for believers. I found myself overwhelmed with gratitude as I looked at the place where my eternal destiny was changed. — JF

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Day 12

CALVARY / GOLGOTHA

It is interesting that Calvary, the place of the skull, was the place of ultimate victory. You’re not really victorious until you overcome in

the place of the skull. By His stripes, you are healed. It happened at Calvary. Because

of Jesus’ blood, your sins are forgiven. It happened at Calvary, at the place of the skull. So ask for cleansing today as you fast, cleansing from sin. The blood of Jesus cleanses us from all unrighteousness.

“How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself

unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the

living God!” — Hebrews 9:14When God begins to move in your life, He doesn’t just touch you

physically and spiritually. . . He will give you a new way of thinking. All of those thoughts of depression and hopelessness are taken away and replaced with thoughts that are pure, just and loving.

As you fast and pray, may the power of the blood of Jesus and the victory of Calvary come to you and bring you strength. Here is my prayer for you:

Father, I pray You grant a fresh cleansing to Your servants today for their physical and spiritual needs. Thank You for the blood of Christ. Thank You for Your plan of redemption! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Everywhere I walk in the Holy Land I am reminded that I am walking where Jesus walked. Today I walked to Caiaphas’ house where Jesus would have walked after His arrest. . But as I walk the steps I also think of Peter. In the nearby courtyard is where Peter denied Jesus three times. I am again amazed to think that I am literally walking in the steps of our Lord and Savior and I am filled with hope when I think of how wonderfully Peter was restored after his failure. — JF

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Day 13

THE STEPS TO CAIAPHAS’ HOUSE

These steps are part of the path that Christ would have taken as they began to scourge Him and bring Him before Caiaphas. As

He walked these steps, the suffering began. This is the same location where Peter would have fulfilled the

prophecy of Jesus by denying Him three times. The Bible said that when he caught Jesus’ gaze, Peter left the area and wept bitterly.

“And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He

had said to him, ‘Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.’” — Luke 22:61

Maybe you have felt like Peter. You may ask yourself, “How could I be so stupid? How could I do something so bad?” I’m sure every time Peter heard a rooster crow the enemy haunted him with his failure. Maybe there is a rooster that keeps trying to crow in your life.

Fasting sweeps us clean. It is like the old vessel is cleaned out so that new wine can be poured in. I’m praying that your fast will sweep your heart and take you beyond the past.

Peter wept bitterly for his betrayal, but he didn’t let that stop him. He went on to the Upper Room and was filled with the Holy Ghost. He spoke as God’s voice on Pentecost to preach the Good News and see 3,000 people saved. We serve a God of the second chance, the God of revival. He will restore your soul and take you beyond your past.

As you fast, I pray revival will break out in your life:Lord, I thank you today that, as we fast, You silence the accusations of the devil. Thank You for Your forgiveness. Thank You for blotting out our transgressions so that You don’t even remember them. Please give us a new anointing and sweep out all the voices of the past. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Today we are again near the Judean Desert. From where I stood today, I could see into the Judean wilderness. It was rocky without much vegetation. It looked bleak, harsh and inhospitable. It certainly didn’t look like a place where I would want to spend a lot of time. — JF

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Day 14

JUDEAN DESERT

You hear a lot about the Judean wilderness in the Bible. The children of Israel were in the wilderness 40 years. The wilderness

is a tough place. Maybe you are in a tough place today—a financial wilderness, an emotional wilderness. But as you fast and pray, I am agreeing with you that you will come out of that wilderness.

Today, my prayer for you is that God would turn your desert into a lush garden. We all go through the wilderness sometimes, but if we just hold on to God, and let Him, He can take the worst messes of our life and turn them around. He can take the mess and turn it into a message. He can take the worst thing and turn it into a blessing.

Remember that God has a future and a path for you. Your life is in His control. You can discover His divine plan as you pray, fast and spend time in Scripture.

Father, encourage us today. Speak to us today. Love on us today. I praise You, Holy Spirit, that You know where we are. You never lead us into a wilderness where You haven’t already provided a path to victory. Please bless us with healing, direction, strength and more. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Today we are by the Sea of Galilee, the area where Jesus took five loaves of bread and two fish and fed a multitude. When I consider the miracles Jesus performed right here in the Holy Land, I am humbled and so thankful that the God of the supernatural would take the form of man for my sake. — JF

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Day 15

SEA OF GALILEE AREA

The Sea of Galilee is always a reminder of the power found in God. In one area near the sea, a church was built in remem-

brance of when Christ supernaturally provided for those who had no food. It was in this location that He fed the 5,000.

Today I stand in agreement with you, as you fast and as you pray, that this will be a year of supernatural provision. Just as Jesus took the bread and the fish and multiplied what they had so that it would provide food for over 5,000, I believe that God’s blessing will come upon you and your household as you offer it to Him.

As long as the disciples kept what they had in their hands, it was useless, but when they put it in the hands of the Master, then suddenly it was multiplied, suddenly it was increased. Let those words sink deep into your spirit. As you give what you have to God, He will multiply and increase the work of your hands. I pray that your labor becomes more prosperous than ever as a result of your spiritual growth on this fast.

As you let go of what you’ve got in your hand, Jesus will multiply the resources in your life. I am praying on your behalf:

Father, I pray today that You would bless those that need Your supernatural provision this year. I pray that Your hand of blessing and prosperity would be upon their work and on their dreams and what they do. I thank You for it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Today I stood between two extremes. To my right was a place of death and brokenness, the Potter’s Field, a place where the Jews buried strangers. Behind me was a place of life and hope, the Dome of the Rock where I could hear the sound of thousands of prayers being prayed . . . hearing those prayers fill the air I was challenged to make prayer an even higher priority in my own life. — JF

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Day 16

THE POTTER’S FIELD

The Potter’s Field got its name because it was the place where potters disposed of vessels that had been marred and broken.

Judas also hung himself there after betraying our Lord. The Jews bought the field with the silver Judas was paid to betray our Lord, and from that point on, Potter’s Field was a place where the Jews would bury strangers.

Potter’s Field was an odd place to consider the importance of prayer. But nearby, at the Dome of the Rock, I could hear a multitude of prayers filling the air.

I encourage you today to focus on prayer. During this time of fasting, be sure and take time to get alone with the Lord and pray. Fasting is really a call to prayer, a call to humble ourselves and pray and seek God’s face.

You may need to rearrange your schedule to make sure you pray. Set a specific time and place to pray daily. When you go to your prayer place, be quiet. Maybe the Lord will lead you to worship. Sometimes I’ll just be quiet and let the Holy Spirit bring things up in my mind to pray about. Sometimes I will begin singing a song of worship or reflecting on the goodness of the Lord.

As you pray and fast, know that you are not alone. Tens of thousands are fasting and praying with you. Our united prayers are piercing the darkness, opening up the heavens, and bringing down blessings on our lives. I speak this blessing over you:

May the spirit of prayer come on you today. May you experience intimacy with the Lord in your prayer place. May God’s presence rest on you as you meet Him daily. May He reveal His wisdom and purpose to you and manifest His power in your life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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I was so moved during my visit to the Western Wall that I wanted to return there today. Once again, I felt so close to God. I don’t think it’s possible to be at the Western Wall and not feel the presence of God. What a blessing to be near the place where the Ark of the Covenant once dwelled. — JF

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Day 17

THE WESTERN WALL

The world-famous Western Wall is the place closest to the Holy of Holies. The Ark of the Covenant dwelled on the other side

of that wall. Here, people pray 24 hours a day. Today, I want to continue talking about the importance of prayer—and the power of incorporating prayer into your fast.

Fasting is like kerosene to prayer. Prayer is powerful, but prayer and fasting together is a mighty combination!

As you fast and pray, remember we have a High Priest in Heaven who lives to make intercession for us. He has been praying for you today. Maybe you are having a tough day. Maybe you are hungry and maybe the devil has come against you whispering, “Just give up, just quit.” When you feel like quitting, remember that Jesus Himself is praying for you.

Father, in the name of Jesus, I pray for our partners. I pray for our friends all over the world. I pray for people who are fasting and praying, people who have needs, people who are sick in their body, people who have domestic problems, financial issues, addictions. Heal the sick. Touch and deliver the oppressed. Save the lost. I pray the windows of heaven would be opened up for financial miracles and breakthroughs. Lord, I pray for our partners today that enable us to reach millions around the world with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Bless them financially, spiritually, and physically. Bless their homes and their families. God, use them and give them Your perfect will. For this I give You praise. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine on you. May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you. May the Lord be gracious unto you, and may He give you peace. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

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As I looked up at the limestone cliffs above Qumran on the West Bank earlier today, I thought of the time when inside of those cliffs a great treasure was found - God’s Word. I can just imagine the surprise and thrill of the boy who discovered this treasure in the cave, and of the great treasure we have in every word of Scripture. — JF

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Day 18

QUMRAN

As you fast, I hope you spend some time in the book of Isaiah. The book of Isaiah prophesied the birth of Jesus Christ, the

death of Jesus Christ, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It’s all in the book of Isaiah . . . and found right here at Qumran in a cave.

A shepherd child was throwing rocks into a cave and heard a crunch. He knew there was something in there. When he looked further, he found the book of Isaiah. It is really an amazing historical spot and it means a lot to believers like you and me.

As we fast and pray, I want to speak two passages of Scriptures from Isaiah over your life today:

“But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement

for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed.” — Isaiah 53:5

“Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the

hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your

own flesh? Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’” — Isaiah 58:6-9

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Every time I come to the Holy Land and visit the dungeon in Caiaphas’ house it touches me more deeply. It’s a dark, solid stone pit that was used as a prison cell. As I look at it, my heart aches to try and imagine what it was like for Jesus on His last night before Calvary. — JF

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Day 19

CAIAPHAS’ DUNGEON

The dungeon of Caiaphas, the high priest, is one of the most touching sites in the Holy Land. After Jesus was arrested, they

would have lowered Him down into this dungeon. It is the prisoner quarters for anyone sentenced by Caiaphas.

Jesus would have spent His last night on earth in this small prison cell. He probably would not have had much sleep as they beat and slapped him. They plucked the beard from His face. Our Lord began to look like what Isaiah described, “A lamb led before the slaughter.” The blood began to pour from His busted lips and possibly from a broken nose. Later, Jesus would cry out from the cross, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” As you fast and pray today, you may feel like God has forsaken you. There are times when we go through the pit of life and it feels like we’ve just hit bottom and there is no hope.

There’s a great scripture in Deuteronomy that says, “The eternal God is your refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms” (Deuteronomy 33:27). Jesus’ last night on earth would certainly have been the lowest point of His life. But underneath Him, holding Him up, were the everlasting arms of God.

There is no doubt in my mind that Jesus would have been fasting and praying in the dungeon. I believe He was praying for you and me in that prison cell, the very pit in Caiaphas’ house where He would have spent His last night.

The Bible says it like this: “He ever liveth to make intercession for you and me.” Today Jesus is praying for you. As you draw close to Him, I pray:

Father, I speak today that Your presence would be with those who have been in a low place, who have been in a pit, who have been down. I pray that Your spirit would come and minister to them, because in the valley You restore our soul. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Today I was overwhelmed with joy as I looked inside the Garden Tomb . . . our Savior is not there! The tomb is empty and He has risen! Praise God! — JF

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Day 20

THE GARDEN TOMB

The Garden Tomb is one of the most exciting sites in all of the Holy Land. Our Savior’s body was laid on the empty cold slab

in the grave of Joseph of Arimathea. But our Lord was not there for long. Jesus Christ rose from the dead!

The empty tomb is a testament to the power God has over death and hell. Inside the Garden Tomb, there is a little wood plank on the door in view as you exit that reads, “He is not here; He has risen.”

Praise God! He has risen indeed!As you fast and pray, reflect upon the power of the resurrection

that gives us power over death and over sin. Is there something in your life that seems to have died? Maybe

your marriage seems to be dying or maybe your passion for God seems to be dying. God can raise back up what the enemy has cut down and attempted to destroy in your life. During your spiritual journey, I am believing that resurrection power will be manifested in your life. You can tap into the incredible resurrection power of heaven when you grow closer to Jesus Christ.

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25). I am praying for you:

Today, I pray that you will experience the power of resurrection in your life. I speak new life into you. I speak life into your marriage. I speak life into your body. I speak life into your spirit man. I speak life into your dreams, into your call, into your finances, into your desire to know Him better. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Today we gathered in the Upper Room with several hundred people and had an amazing service of prayer and worship, agreeing in one accord. I could almost feel that “mighty rushing wind” sweep through that room. — JF

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Day 21

THE UPPER ROOM

The Upper Room in Jerusalem holds a lot of significance for believers for several reasons. • It was the site of the Last Supper that Jesus ate with His

disciples before His death. • It’s where the disciples gathered after Jesus’ death and

where He appeared to them after His resurrection.• The disciples met together in the Upper Room after the

Ascension of Jesus.• This is where the Holy Spirit descended on the day of

Pentecost and empowered the early disciples, and that empowerment continues to this day.

Agreeing together makes a difference! “As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Now separate to me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away” (Acts 13:2-3).

When you fast, pray and agree, the Holy Ghost will speak to you about your purpose.

Throughout this 21-day fast, you have stood in agreement with tens of thousands of believers around the world. Together, we are crying out for a move of God. I believe the power of the Holy Spirit will manifest in your life, your church, your home and your family. This is my prayer:

I speak blessings over you. And I pray that the power of the Holy Spirit and the gifts of the Holy Spirit will be stirred up in you as you fast and pray. I pray that there will be an invasion of the Holy Spirit in your church, bringing a spirit of revival. I pray that the mighty rushing wind that hit the Upper Room will hit your life in a powerful way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

JENTEZEN FRANKLIN is the senior pastor of Free Chapel in Gainesville, Georgia; Free Chapel Gwinnett in Suwanee, Georgia; and Free Chapel OC in Irvine, California. He also ministers globally through his “Kingdom Connection” television broadcasts.

ISBN: 978-0-9833264-3-4

9 7 8 0 9 8 3 3 2 6 4 3 4

© 2015 JENTEZEN FRANKLIN MEDIA MINISTRIESP.O. Box 315 • Gainesville, GA 30503www.JentezenFranklin.org • 888-339-0049

“There is no greater example for us than Jesus Christ. I encourage you to follow in His steps on your fast.” –Jentezen Franklin

Take your fast into the Holy Land without ever leaving home!

Jentezen Franklin shares 21 life-changing truths revealed by the Holy Spirit as he walked in the footsteps of Jesus Christ. Each daily teaching will encourage and inspire your personal journey of fasting and faith. This resource is a must have for anyone committed to making fasting and prayer a part of your lifestyle.

As you journey with Jentezen Franklin, you will begin to see the power of fasting through the eyes of those who walked the earth during Biblical times.

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