Fasting Prayer Healing & Deliverance: A Path To Wholeness

By DR. Ralph Steele and Rev Lakendra Hightower

A practical and theoretical perspective on holistic healing and deliverance from the spiritual, emotional, psychological and deep invisible scars that haunt people all their life to help you overcome trauma and PTSD.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Vanilla Heart Publishers
• Release date: Oct 13, 2023
• ISBN: 9798869276704

Book preview

Dedication

Dr. Ralph Steele & Rev. La Kendra Hightower are both honored to dedicate this book to the General Church of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church worldwide, on 5 continents, with 6,600 churches and 12 Episcopal Districts.

Second, we are also dedicating this book to the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc, the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, and all of the Devine 9 fraternities and sororities.

Last, We dedicate this book to all persons, men and women who walk in PTSD, pain, hurt, and Invisible scars, and those who are just copping and need the ultimate healing and deliverance, for those who are seeking to overcome trauma from abuse, neglect, sexual assault/harassment/molestation, human trafficking and domestic violence and stalking.

We dedicate this book to your eternal healing and deliverance.

Acknowledgment

Healing and Deliverance is a higher level than just copping with the issues of life. The Kingdom of God is about the saints of God living in an eternal state of being healing and being delivered into the awesome power of the almighty, everlasting God through Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

I am so grateful to my brother Eric Steele for being an amazing man of God, a leader, a coach, and a spiritually wise man, my baby brother. I love you, brother Eric, and I appreciate our conversations related to Healing and living in the Deliverance that God has blessed us.

My brother Eric is a model of a Christian man who lives, walks, understands and emulates what God gives all of us every day to walk to live in our healing and deliverance in Jesus's name. Thank you, Eric, for allowing me to have our conversations that precipitated my writing of this book. Every brother needs a brother like you, Eric, to have and talk with daily and to be transparent and supportive like you.

Thanks to the members of Outland Memorial AME Zion Church and St. Mark AME Zion Church for your patient with both Dr. Ralph Steele and Rev. Lakendra Hightower, as we need ample enough time to dream and write.

Thanks to Vanderbilt Divinity School for the critical analytical thinking that I was blessed with.

Thanks to Oxford University for the excellent global critical and analytical thinking.

Contents

Dedication

Acknowledgment

About the Author

Foreword

Purpose of healing and deliverance of the kingdom

Preface

Chapter 1: Healing from Trauma and Addiction

Chapter 2: The Power of Fasting

Chapter 3: The Role of Prayer in Healing and Fasting

Chapter 4: Healing Trauma through Deliverance

Chapter 5: The Connection Between Mind and Body

Chapter 6: Understanding Trauma and PTSD

Chapter 7: Overcoming Fear and Anxiety

Chapter 8: The Power of Forgiveness

Chapter 9  Understanding the Healing Process

Chapter 10: The Positive Impact of Holiness

Chapter 11: Overcoming Addiction through Deliverance

Chapter 12: The Importance of Self-Care

Chapter 13: Living a Life of Gratitude:

Chapter 14: The Role of Community in Healing

Chapter 15: Developing a Personal Healing Plan

Chapter 16: Overcoming Spiritual Warfare

Chapter 17: Restoring Broken Relationships

Chapter 18: Navigating Grief and Loss

Chapter 19: Embracing a Life of Purpose

Chapter 20: Eternal Spiritual Healing

About the Author

Rev. La’Kendra Hightower serves the kingdom of God with passion and intentional ministry for prayer and evangelism. She is a former connectional officer in the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, in which she served as the YACM Steering Committee Central Region representative and Young Adult Coordinator of Prayer Ministry for the Midwest Episcopal District.

She also served as pastor of the Bank Street African Methodist Episcopal Church in Russellville, Kentucky, from 2018 to 2022 and is currently pastor of St. Mark African Methodist Episcopal Zion in Dallas, Texas.

She is a passionate proclaimer of the gospel and exercises spiritual gifts for the edification of the saints. Hightower states, this book enlightens and inspires readers to higher heights and deeper depths in Christian principles, allow it to bring revelation for your spiritual journey.

Foreword

The Reverend Dr. Ralph Steele and the Reverend La’Kendra Hightower have joined together to produce a Book that lifts up the importance of Fasting, Prayer, Healing and Deliverance. This book takes us down a trail leading to a life of spiritual discipline. These two authors delve deep into the importance of seeking help from negative addictions to find purpose and meaning in our lives.

Each Chapter is loaded with information dealing with issues that confront us every day. Not only do the authors dissect the problems and confront the issues head-on, but they offer solutions that are practical and useful. From their own individual experiences and testimonies, Dr. Steele and Reverend Hightower show the readers how they were able to overcome these difficulties to live lives that are productive and meaningful. Both authors come from religious backgrounds and are pastoring churches. They are both well-equipped to examine Fasting, Prayer, healing and deliverance from a biblical and Theological perspective.

This Book is filled with quotes from individuals who themselves have traversed through the landscapes filled with challenges that test one’s faith. These quotes tie into the subject matter of this book in such a way that it brings hope to others who are dealing with the pressing issues of life. Each Chapter in the book builds upon the previous chapter, connecting all the dots and giving the readers hope for a better tomorrow. We all need to know about the power of forgiveness, the impact of holiness, the importance of self-care and living a life of gratitude. All of these and more Christian principles, including overcoming spiritual warfare and restoring broken relationships, are carefully brought out and skillfully covered.

This book will not only help you deal with the pressing issues of life but will give you a new sense of perspective and a whole new outlook on life. This book will help bring hope to the hopeless, faith to the faithless and power to the powerless. This book will also strengthen your belief in the God who instilled within each of us the ability to overcome.

Bishop Michael Angelo Frencher, Sr.

Mid-West Episcopal District

African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church

Purpose of Healing &

Deliverance of The Kingdom

by Apostle Rev Dr. Gregory Jackson

I have noticed that there is a connection between the gospel of the kingdom being proclaimed and the ministry of healing and deliverance. When the kingdom of God is proclaimed—and when His kingdom advances— healing of the sick and deliverance for the captives is a byproduct.

Consider the following examples from the ministry of Jesus:

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people.

-Matthew 4:23

But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you.

-Matthew 12:28

Notice that Christ’s ministry of healing is linked to His message of the kingdom. Notice that casting out demons occurs when the kingdom of God advances.

Other Examples

This pattern is also true when Jesus commissioned others to carry out His ministry. He made a connection between the gospel of the kingdom and the ministry of healing and deliverance.

When Jesus sent out the twelve disciples, He gave them this commission: And as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons. Freely you have received, freely give.

-Matthew 10:7-8

And when He later sent out the 70, He told them this:

And heal the sick there, and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.

-Luke 10:9

The connection is clear. When the kingdom of heaven is manifesting in the earth, the sick are healed, and the demonized are delivered. These are not the only manifestations of the kingdom, but certainly, they are some of the primary ones.

Is it possible that we are not seeing more of these expressions of God’s power because we have not been believing and preaching the message that Jesus preached? Is it possible that if we focused on advancing His kingdom, these manifestations would be a byproduct? I believe that the answer is yes.

(If you have not yet, you may want to read my article explaining what the gospel of the kingdom is).

Your Kingdom Come

Jesus taught us to pray that God’s kingdom would come and His will would be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10). When God’s kingdom comes, the sick are healed, the lost are saved, and the demonized are set free.

God has called His church to be the place where heaven invades earth. We, as believers, are in a unique position; we are citizens here on Earth, but we are also citizens of Heaven. Paul told the Philippian church, our citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). This means that we have access to the provision and power of heaven and the ability to release it on the earth.

As we seek first the kingdom of God, and as we make the reality of the Lordship of Jesus manifest on the earth, we will begin to see more of the signs of His kingdom. As we restore the message that Jesus preached and practiced, we will also restore the fullness of His ministry.

The message of Jesus was the kingdom. The message of the early church was the kingdom. Our message must be the kingdom!

Preface

"Fasting, Prayer, Healing & Deliverance" is a comprehensive guide to the spiritual disciplines of Fasting, prayer, healing, and deliverance. This book is a result of my personal journey of exploring and experiencing these practices, which have been essential in my growth as a believer in Jesus Christ. The practices of Fasting, prayer, healing, and deliverance have transformed my life and have brought me closer to God.

In the book's first part, we delve into the practice of Fasting. Fasting is a spiritual discipline that has been practiced for centuries by people of various faiths. Fasting is an act of self-denial that involves abstaining from food and drink for a period of time. Fasting has numerous benefits, both physically and spiritually. Fasting helps to detoxify the body, improve mental clarity, and increase energy levels. Spiritually, fasting helps to strengthen our faith, deepen our intimacy with God, and sharpen our spiritual discernment. In this part of the book, we explore the different types of Fasting, the benefits of Fasting, and practical tips for Fasting.

In the second part of the book, we focus on the practice of prayer. Prayer is a powerful tool that enables us to communicate with God. Prayer is not just about asking God for things, but it is also about listening to God and seeking His will for our lives. Prayer is a means of developing a closer relationship with God and experiencing His presence in our lives. In this part of the book, we explore the different types of prayer, the benefits of prayer, and practical tips for developing a strong prayer life.

In the final part of the book, we focus on the practices of healing and deliverance. Jesus Christ is the ultimate healer and deliverer, and He has given us the authority to pray for healing and deliverance for ourselves and others. Healing and deliverance are two essential practices that enable us to experience the freedom and wholeness that Christ offers. In this part of the book, we explore the biblical basis for healing and deliverance, the different types of healing and deliverance, and practical tips for praying for healing and deliverance.

Fasting, Prayer, Healing & Deliverance is a comprehensive guide to the spiritual disciplines of Fasting, prayer, healing, and deliverance. This book is designed to equip believers with the knowledge and tools necessary to grow in their spiritual journey and experience the fullness of life that Christ offers. Whether you are a seasoned believer or a new believer, this book will provide you with practical insights and spiritual guidance to deepen your faith and experience the power of God in your life.

Chapter 1:

Healing from Trauma and Addiction

Trauma is personal. It does not disappear if it is not validated. When it is ignored or invalidated, the silent screams continue internally, heard only by the one held captive.

-Danielle Bernock

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds, we are healed.

- Isaiah 53:5

Trauma and addiction are two of the most difficult challenges that one can face in life. They can shatter our sense of self, undermine our relationships, and make us feel helpless and hopeless. Trauma can take many forms, from physical and sexual abuse to emotional neglect and abandonment. Addiction, on the other hand, can arise from a range of factors, such as genetic predisposition, stress, and trauma. Regardless of their origins, both trauma and addiction can be devastating and difficult to overcome.

As someone who has personally experienced both trauma and addiction, I know firsthand how challenging they can be. It wasn't until I found the power of Fasting, prayer, healing, and deliverance that I was able to break free from their grip and find peace and purpose in my life. In this chapter, we will explore what trauma and addiction are, how they can impact our lives and the importance of seeking healing.

Trauma and addiction can have a profound impact on our lives. Trauma can affect our sense of self, our relationships, and our ability to function in the world. It can manifest as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other mental health conditions. Addiction, on the other hand, can lead to a range of physical and psychological symptoms, such as withdrawal, cravings, and mood swings.

The effects of trauma and addiction can be long-lasting and far-reaching, often affecting not only the individual but also their loved ones. It can create a cycle of pain, suffering, and isolation that can be difficult to break. However, it is important to remember that healing and recovery are possible.

Trauma

Trauma can take many forms, and it is important to recognize that each individual's experience is unique. It can be caused by a one-time event, such as a natural disaster, a car accident, or a violent crime. It can also be the result of ongoing abuse, neglect, or mistreatment. Trauma can be physical, emotional, or psychological in nature, and it can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. At its core, trauma is an emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms our ability to cope with it effectively. It can be caused by physical or psychological harm such as abuse (sexual or otherwise), neglect, violence, natural disasters, accidents or medical procedures gone wrong. The effects of trauma vary greatly depending on the individual's age at the time of the traumatic event(s), as well as other factors such as pre-existing mental health issues or family dynamics. Common symptoms include flashbacks/intrusive memories, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, hypervigilance, avoidance behaviors, depression, anxiety, anger outbursts etc., all of which can have a significant impact on one's life if left untreated for too long.

Effects of Trauma

Trauma can have a profound impact on our lives. It can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and worthlessness. It can make us feel disconnected from our bodies and our emotions, and it can cause us to develop unhealthy coping mechanisms such as addiction, self-harm, and eating disorders. Trauma can also affect our relationships with others, making it difficult to trust, communicate, and form intimate connections.

The Importance of Seeking Healing

Healing from trauma is not easy, but it is necessary. It requires courage, commitment, and a willingness to confront painful emotions and memories. Seeking healing can help us to reclaim our sense of self, reconnect with our emotions and our bodies, and to build healthier relationships with others. It can also help us to break free from the cycle of addiction and find a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.

What is Addiction?

Addiction, on the other hand, is a complex disease that can have both genetic and environmental factors. It can arise from a range of causes, such as stress, trauma, or social pressures. It can manifest as a dependence on drugs, alcohol, or other substances, as well as behaviors such as gambling or shopping. Addiction can be a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break without help and support.

Addiction is defined by compulsive behavior despite negative consequences associated with it – whether it's substance use disorder (alcoholism/drug abuse) or behavioral addictions like gambling/shopping/internet gaming, etc. It often starts off innocently enough but quickly spirals into something more serious when not addressed early on due to its highly addictive nature – leading people down a path where they feel powerless over their own lives without any real control over their actions anymore. This sense of powerlessness leads them further away from themselves. Eventually, they become completely disconnected from who they once were before becoming addicted in the first place.

Effects of Addiction

Addiction can have a profound impact on our lives. It can lead to social isolation, financial instability, and legal problems. It can also affect our physical health, leading to chronic conditions such as heart disease, liver disease, and cancer. Addiction can also take a toll on our mental health, contributing to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.

The Importance of Seeking Healing

Seeking healing from addiction is essential for regaining control of our lives. It requires us to acknowledge the negative impact that addiction has had on our lives and to take steps to address the underlying issues that contributed to our addiction. Seeking healing can help us to build healthier coping mechanisms, develop a stronger sense of self, and to find a sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.

The impact of trauma and addiction can be devastating, but seeking healing and recovery is crucial. It is important to recognize that healing is not a one-size-fits-all process and that each individual's journey will be unique. However, there are tools and resources available that can help.

One of the most powerful tools for healing is Fasting, prayer, healing, and deliverance. Fasting has been used for centuries as a spiritual practice to deepen one's connection with God and to purify the body and mind. It involves abstaining from food or certain types of food for a period of time, usually for religious or spiritual purposes.

Fasting can have a range of physical and psychological benefits. It can help to detoxify the body, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation. It can also help to clear the mind, improve focus, and promote mental clarity. Fasting has also been shown to have a positive impact on mood and emotional well-being.

In addition to the physical benefits, Fasting can also have a powerful spiritual impact. It can help to deepen one's relationship with God and to gain clarity and insight into one's purpose and path in life. Fasting can also be a powerful tool for overcoming addiction and trauma. By abstaining from food or other substances, individuals can break free from the cycle of dependence and gain a new sense of control over their lives.

In order to experience the full benefits of Fasting, it is important to prepare properly. This may involve consulting with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. It is also important to set clear intentions and goals for your fast and to approach them with a positive and open mindset.

In conclusion, trauma and addiction can be difficult challenges to overcome,