DAY 1 DEVOTIONAL- 21 Day Fast

A Heart Set Apart

Scripture:“Return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.” — Joel 2:12

Reflection

The first day of a fast is less about what we are giving up and more about what we are turning toward. God’s invitation in Joel is simple yet profound: Return to Me with all your heart.

Fasting creates space. It quiets noise, exposes distractions, and reveals where our hearts may have drifted. On this first day, God is not demanding perfection—He is inviting sincerity. He is not asking for performance—He is welcoming return.

A heart set apart does not mean a flawless heart. It means a willing one. One that comes honestly before God, ready to be examined, realigned, and renewed. As we begin this fast, we are reminded that spiritual transformation starts with surrender.

Let today be about posture, not pressure. About openness, not obligation. God honors hearts that come to Him fully and honestly.

Prayer

Lord, today I return to You. I come with humility, openness, and expectation. Search my heart and reveal anything that needs to be surrendered to You. As I begin this fast, set my heart apart for Your purposes. I want to draw near to You more than anything else. Amen.

Faith in Action

Today, take intentional time to pause and acknowledge God’s presence. This may look like:

• Setting aside uninterrupted prayer time

• Writing a simple prayer of surrender

• Turning off distractions and choosing stillness

Let your actions today reflect your decision to return fully to God.

Reflection Questions

• What does it mean for me to return to God with my whole heart?

• Are there areas of my life that need realignment?

• What am I believing God for during this fast?