Vision isn’t meant to be a one-time statement that gathers dust on a shelf. Like Nehemiah, who needed both initial vision and ongoing renewal to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, we understand that vision requires constant reminder and occasional renewal. This process happens on three vital levels.
1. Personal Renewal
Drawing from Psalm 51: “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” Personal Renewal,
- Creates a clean heart and right spirit
- Restores the joy of salvation
- Builds individual spiritual strength
2. Corporate Renewal
As Hosea 6:1 states: “Come, let us return to the Lord, for he has torn us, that he may heal us; he has struck us down, and he will bind us up.” Corporate Renewal,
- Strengthens the church body as a whole
- Unifies believers in purpose
- Deepens community bonds
3. Vision Renewal
As Joel 2:12-13 exhorts: “Yet even now, declares the Lord, return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.” Vision Renewal,
- Realigns focus on our mission
- Reinvigorates passion for service
- Reestablishes kingdom priorities
The Role of Fasting in Vision Renewal
Fasting plays a crucial role in vision renewal through ten key aspects:
1. Demonstrates Humility
- Shows dependence on God
- Acknowledges our limitations
2. Aligns with God’s Will
- Helps us understand God’s direction
- Clarifies His purposes
3. Opens Doors for Vision
- Increases spiritual sensitivity
- Enhances clarity of purpose
4. Strengthens Spiritual Warfare
- Builds spiritual resilience
- Deepens prayer life
5. Attracts God’s Response
- Demonstrates serious pursuit of God
- Shows commitment to His purposes
6. Builds Spiritual Strength
- Increases spiritual stamina
- Develops perseverance
7. Requires Perseverance
- Tests commitment
- Builds character
8. Shifts Focus to God’s Glory
- Moves attention from self to God
- Enhances worship
9. Prepares for Greater Assignments
- Develops spiritual readiness
- Builds ministry capacity
10. Reveals God’s Power
- Shows God’s supremacy over obstacles
- Demonstrates His faithfulness
Conclusion:
As we embrace this vision renewal, let us commit to:
- Regular prayer and fasting
- Deepening our study of God’s Word
- Active engagement in discipleship
- Intentional community outreach
- Supporting church planting initiatives
Our goal is not just to state these values but to live them out daily, allowing Christ to be both visible and tangible through our lives to everyone around us.
