July 5-11, 2026
As we navigate the busy summer season, we look to Scripture for true refreshment. While summer often brings vacations, activities, and full calendars, it can also leave little room for intentional time with God. Before we know it, our days are filled with errands, social media, family commitments, and all the adulting responsibilities that come with everyday life.
Sometimes the deepest refreshment comes not from adding something to our schedules, but from setting something aside in order to draw closer to God. If you've been feeling distracted, hurried, or spiritually depleted, God may be inviting you into the practice of fasting.
This month, we'll spend time in Isaiah 58, exploring God's heart for fasting and discovering how this spiritual discipline can help us refocus, renew our faith, and deepen our relationship with Him.
This week's focus: Fasting
This week's Bible reading: Isaiah 58:1-3
Day 1: Isaiah 58 begins with a bold message. God calls Isaiah to speak clearly about the sins that have entangled His people and led them away from His ways. Take an honest inventory today. Are there areas of your life where you are resisting God's direction, rebelling, or choosing your own path? Ask Him to reveal anything that needs to be surrendered.
Day 2: God's voice is compared to a trumpet. God's voice is clear, unmistakable, and impossible to ignore. Can you recall a time when God spoke to your heart through Scripture, prayer, or wise counsel? Reflect on what He said and whether there is a step of obedience He may still be asking you to take.
Day 3: God doesn't always speak through dramatic moments or a trumpet voice. Often, His voice comes as a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:11-13). Set aside a few minutes today to sit quietly before Him. Listen without rushing. What thoughts, Scriptures, or impressions come to mind as you seek His presence?
Day 4: Do you feel that we are a "nation that does what is right?" Why or why not? Isaiah addresses a nation that appeared religious on the outside but had drifted from God's heart. As you look at our world today, where do you see a need for God's truth, justice, and mercy? Spend time praying for our nation, its leaders, churches, and communities.
Day 5: The people ask, "Why have we fasted, and You have not seen it?" (Isaiah 58:3). In other words, "What's the point?" Have you ever felt that way in your spiritual life? Bring those questions honestly before God. Ask Him to show you His purpose in your current season and give you a fresh perspective on where He is at work.Challenge: Have a meaningful “courage” conversation with a trusted friend where you share something you normally avoid discussing. Reflect afterward on what you learned in your journal.
Challenge: Fasting is a spiritual practice of humbling ourselves before God, turning from distractions, and making room to hear His voice more clearly. In Isaiah 58, God challenges His people because their outward actions did not reflect hearts that were truly surrendered to Him.
This week, ask God if there is something He would have you fast from. It could be a meal, social media, television, unnecessary spending, or another habit that competes for your attention. Use that time to pray, listen, confess, and draw near to Him. As you make space for God's presence, allow Him to renew your heart and remind you of the freedom and forgiveness found in Christ.
Prayer Prompts and Bible Readings are provided by Michele Bowden and Lisa Brass, Coaches with Visual Faith™ Ministry. Find them on our Creative Devotion page, on Instagram @victoryinart and @aworthylif, and on the web at victoryinart.com.