“Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning" (Joel 2:12 ESV). 

As a clay-wrapped vapor, recall that the Lord disciplines those he loves through purification fires which produce holiness. Therefore, take heed to the call for our wandering hearts to subdue its desires. Even though Jesus is risen and seated at the right hand of the Father, the mandate remains: turn your laughter into mourning, humbling yourself before our Almighty God.

A great mystery in prayers, prostrations, and fastings is that the lower we submit ourselves, the higher our hearts are lifted in the heavenly places - drawing closer to our King.  

What a gentle King we have, for he requests obedience in grace and offers a way to submit ourselves to him: fasting. Fast, or deny ourselves, a pleasure from this world. 

Can you recall the last time you fasted? If you can, then recount how the Lord carried you! As the flesh slowly withered away, was not your inner-spirit renewed? If you cannot recall, however, take these words as encouragement! Humble yourself before the Lord of Lords and make lowly your vessel. By the end of your repentance, once again you will be reminded that the Lord is indeed good. Yes, we are clay-wrapped vapors; yet God in his grace long suffers to clothe us in glory.