Redemptive Poverty Work Student Workbook

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8. Fasting. (Luke 5.33-35; Acts 13.2-3) Our poverty work often causes us to search for ways to control situations. Fasting reminds us that even when it comes to food, we depend on God and God is in control.

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a. Instead of seeking control, we fast in response to situations in life.

b. Basic Commitment: Commit to fast (no food or drink for a 24-hour period) as a discipline against sinful desires once a week.

c. Advanced Commitment: Commit to fast (no food or drink for a 24-hour period) as a discipline against sinful desires twice a week.

C. Concluding Charge

1. Embrace the reality that our sinful nature leaves us vulnerable to exploitation of those who live in poverty.

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2. Renew your mind towards being redemptive as a motivating force for your poverty work.

Conclusion In this lesson, Rhythms of Life and Poverty Work , we have briefly outlined the wisdom of engaging in the fundamental spiritual disciplines of the Great Tradition of the Church. We invite you to make basic commitments to these essential practices in your life. Faithful engagement of these spiritual practices will act as a countermeasure to slipping into toxic poverty work, as well as serve a catalyst for your own health and Christian growth.

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