Fasting, prayer changed women’s lives

In 2002, a Spokane-based public relations and media representative for the Salvation Army met the owner of a real estate company from California while working on the Franklin Graham crusade.

That chance meeting resulted in a lasting friendship and a recently released book, “Fast Friends: The Amazing Power of Friendship, Fasting and Prayer” (Broadstreet 2015).

Of course, neither Suzanne Niles nor Wendy Simpson Little believes that meeting was random.

“God called two average women into a relationship that answered the cry of our hearts for a sincere and dedicated support system,” Niles said. “I had felt led to fast and pray, and two weeks after we met Wendy called (from California) and asked if I’d be willing to fast and pray one day a week with her.”

The concept of fasting and prayer is rooted in biblical examples from Moses to Jesus, Niles said.

“The goal is to increase your intimacy with God and to know him better. When you make a sacrifice for God you get the incredible benefit of knowing him.”

They agreed to fast each week from Monday night after dinner until Tuesday evening before dinner – that way they wouldn’t miss family mealtime. Niles cautioned that fasting isn’t for everyone. Many have health issues that would prohibit going without food.

“It doesn’t have to be food,” she said. “It can be television or social media, et cetera.”

Having a friend to fast and pray with made all the difference for both women.

“It has literally changed our lives,” Niles said. “There’s transparency, accountability, no judgment, and absolute love and commitment.”

The miles between them didn’t affect their bond or their dedication. They text, talk on the phone and email each other frequently.

“Relationships don’t deepen or grow without the investment of time,” Niles said.

Knowing that someone else had committed time to pray with and for them gave added comfort when tough times hit.

“I don’t know anyone who hasn’t faced a life circumstance that knocked you out,” Niles said.

For her that was an incorrect diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and the related health issues and anxieties. For Little it was her daughter being diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

“There have been times when both of us have been too overwhelmed to pray. There’s comfort knowing someone else is praying for you,” Niles said.

The book came about because both women journaled about what they experienced or learned during their times of fasting and prayer and felt others could benefit from their journey.

“Fast Friends” offers personal and biblical insights on topics such as fasting to confess sins, fasting for God’s guidance and fasting for your children.

Also included is a 10-week study guide featuring tips on how to embark on your own “fast friendship.”

After 13 years, Niles and Little aren’t ready to quit their weekly habit.

“I feel energized on my fasting day. It’s something we look forward to,” said Niles. “We’ll continue this as long as we can. We don’t want to give it up.”