Our OLX students stepped into a meaningful rhythm of practicing two core spiritual disciplines—prayer and fasting—in a way that allowed them to not just learn about these practices, but to truly experience them.
As part of this experience, students participated in a 24-hour fast with nothing but water, paired with dedicated time for prayer and solitude. EJ, our President of the Week, guided the group to The Potter’s Place, a local ministry that provides quiet cabins and peaceful outdoor space designed for reflection and rest. It created the perfect environment for students to slow down, listen, and meet with God.
Throughout their time of solitude, students explored several prayer practices:
- Talking to God and listening for His voice
- Praying Scripture through Lectio Divina
- Simply being with God, resting in His presence without distraction
Students engaged deeply, and their reflections speak to the significance of the experience:
“This was so amazing for me and so beneficial—being able to concentrate in prayer and fasting and just be content in that.”
“Prayer and fasting were so good, and I loved being able to participate.”
“The fasting and solitude was a great experience.”
“Potter’s Place was so beneficial!”
“While I do not love fasting, it was still a good time of thoughtfulness…Potter’s Place was a real blessing.”
“Prayer and fasting helped me recenter my focus on Christ.”
“The fasting exercise was surprisingly good. I loved Potter’s Place.”
“Prayer and fasting were so good—just being able to have the Lord sustain us instead of food.”
“Seeking God through fasting was so good for surrendering my flesh to Him.”
Our focus centered on Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:16–18—fasting quietly, humbly, and without drawing attention to ourselves. Students were encouraged to go about their day as normally as possible during the fast, embracing another layer of surrender and reliance on God.
We were also grateful for a session led by Todd DeVaney, OneLife board member and coach at Tin Man Ministries. Todd guided students through the importance of living from the heart, recognizing our core emotions, and understanding how our personal stories shape us. His time with us was both insightful and deeply encouraging.
Overall, this experience created intentional space for students to slow down, seek God, and be reminded of His presence in the stillness.