Day 2 - Access

Day 2 - Access

Joel 2:12-13 (TLB)
12 That is why the Lord says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me all your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, mourning.
13 Let your remorse tear at your hearts and not your garments.” Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful. He is not easily angered; he is full of kindness and anxious not to punish you.

“Return to Me with all your heart,” says the Lord—not with outward show, but with inner surrender. For He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, full of lovingkindness, and eager to forgive rather than punish.

God’s invitation goes out to everyone: longtime friends, casual acquaintances, and even former opponents. All are invited into a celebration of fellowship, abundance, and joy.

When an honored guest first comes, great care is often taken to prepare only certain rooms—those most visible and impressive. The entrance is spotless, the furniture arranged, the table prepared. This is appropriate at first. But as relationship deepens and trust is formed, true intimacy invites more than a polished reception area. It opens the whole house.

With growing trust, doors are unlocked—bedrooms, workshops, storage rooms, hidden corners. Not because everything is perfect, but because the relationship is secure. The concern shifts from impression to presence. Each room begins to be prepared not out of fear, but out of love and honor, so the guest may feel at home.

Timing matters. Any space kept closed remains unchanged. Disorder lingers where access is denied. The guest may be patient and understanding, never rejecting the house or its owner—but limited access limits influence. Renewal waits at closed doors.

So it is with God. When we first surrender to Christ as Lord, we open a door we could never have prepared well enough on our own. Yet His presence brings transformation—old things replaced, new life established. Over time, however, it is possible to welcome Him in the familiar, public places of our lives while quietly restricting access to others.

But Christ did not come merely to visit. He came to dwell.

Full repentance is not outward display, but inward openness. It is the moment when every door is opened—when we return to Him with all our heart—and allow His gracious, merciful presence to renew every room.

He is ready.

The question is whether we will open the doors.

Fasting:

"It is to an alone time with my Father that my soul goes in the times when it is challenged, where it discovers its purpose and is prepared for a demonstration of His power.”
Matthew 14:13,23

Praise:

"My soul will declare and sing of my Father’s great goodness, righteousness, mercy and longsuffering that are displayed as a praise in all of His works.”
Psalm 145:7-10

Identity:

“I do not let any corrupt words come from my mouth, but only speak good things that encourage and minister grace to anyone that hears.”
Ephesians 4:29

Understanding:

"The Holy Spirit helps me to remember and understand the truth that is mine in Christ."
John 14:26

Wholeness:

"I will hold onto God’s faithful promise of a long, healthy and satisfied life.”
Hebrews 10:23, Psalm 91:16

Provision:

“As I seek the Lord and tremble in His presence, I have assurance that I will not lack for anything.”
Psalm 34:9-10

Song: (Click to hear)
"This Higher Place"

Additional Resources:

Jentzen Franklin 26 Fast Devotionals

Fasting Guide