Fasting, Prayers Key To Spiritual Healing – Apostle Okoriko
By Dennis Udoma, Uyo
Akwa Ibom Cleric and Founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church, Apostle John Okoriko has affirmed that fasting and prayer remain potent instruments for both spiritual advancement and physical healing.
He made the assertion during his monthly media Interactive Service tagged, “Miracles of Fasting and Prayer” held at the Life Tabernacle branch of his Church in Eket.
Apostle Okoriko noted that, although fasting may diminish physical strength, it heightens spiritual sensitivity.
“When your body feels weak during fasting, your spirit becomes more alert,” he said.
Making reference between faith and science, he pointed out that even medical practitioners recommend temporary abstinence from food as part of recovery therapies, asserting that nature itself promotes fasting through environmental rhythms.
“If you don’t voluntarily choose to fast and pray, nature may compel you through illness,” adding that, the physical benefits of fasting is the detoxifying effect.
“Fasting purges the body of toxins. Drinking water during fasts help eliminate waste through urine and defecation”.
Apostle Okoriko also referenced the animal kingdom, stating that injured animals instinctively stop eating while recovering, using it as a divine principle built into creation.
Dispelling common misconceptions among humans, he insisted that skipping a meal does not qualify as fasting saying, “True fasting must last at least 24 hours to have any significant impact on the body and spirit.”
He cited Matthew 17:21 to emphasize that certain spiritual challenges require fasting and prayer to be overcome.
However, he cautioned worshippers against isolating themselves in forests, bushes, or mountains during fasts due to the health risks of insect bites and other distractions stating that, “The environment must be safe to allow spiritual focus,” he said.
Apostle Okoriko used the occasion to announce the upcoming one week global observance of “Prayers and Fasting” beginning from August 24 to 31, 2025, assuring members and the public of miraculous encounters, healing and signs from God.