THIS KIND GOES NOT OUT EXCEPT BY PRAYER AND FASTING”

 You shall not be small but eventually become a major influencer because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life - Devotional: “THIS KIND GOES NOT OUT EXCEPT BY PRAYER AND FASTING”

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

“However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.” — Matthew 17:21 (AMP)

   In Matthew 17, the disciples faced a spiritual challenge they could not overcome. A demon tormented a young boy, and though they had previously cast out demons, this one resisted them. Jesus’ response revealed a powerful truth about spiritual life: not every battle is the same, and not every obstacle yields to casual spirituality.

    Some manuscripts omit Matthew 17:21, yet the message is confirmed in Mark 9:29, and strongly supported throughout Scripture. Jesus often withdrew to pray (Luke 5:16), taught His followers to fast (Matthew 6:16–18), and warned them to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41). The early church practiced both disciplines to seek God’s power (Acts 13:2–3).

    The disciples’ failure was not because Christ’s authority was weak, but because their preparation was shallow. They approached a deep spiritual confrontation with minimal spiritual discipline. Jesus teaches us that certain breakthroughs require deeper devotion—the kind shaped in the secret place, strengthened by fasting, and empowered through persistent prayer.

   In our lives, some burdens, temptations, and strongholds will not move until we press beyond routine Christianity. Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will; fasting humbles the flesh and sharpens spiritual sensitivity. Together they cultivate a faith that can confront darkness with authority.

   Today, reflect: Are there battles I’ve tried to fight in my own strength? Jesus invites us into deeper communion with Him, where spiritual power is renewed and impossible things become possible.

   Some victories come only through prayer and fasting. In our daily prayers we should seek a healthy appetite for God's word and discipline to fast regularly .

PRAYER: Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and power to overcome evil strongholds.

+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com