| Overview
We will be pleased to have you join us as we dedicate time to embrace and share Gods love. The fast will begin at 6:00 pm January 7, 2018 and continue thru 6:00 pm January 28, 2018. This Guidelines is designed to help you along your spiritual journey. A life of serving Jesus is the most exciting life you can ever imagine.
Biblical
So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and petition, in fasting. Daniel 9:3
The Daniel Fast is a 21-day partial fast based upon the prophet Daniels experiences in the Bible. The purpose of the fast is to restrict commonly enjoyed foods as an act of worship and consecration to God. Someone who chooses to undergo a Daniel Fast demonstrates a physical commitment to pursue a closer relationship with the Lord.
On one occasion, Daniel was greatly concerned for his people and sought the Lords wisdom during a time of prayer and fasting. Daniel 10:2-3 says, At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips. The meaning of choice food is not clear; however, most commentaries conclude that he ate no bread or sweets. The Message translation sums up Daniels eating habits during that time: I ate only plain and simple food.
The idea behind the fast is not to duplicate Daniels menu but to imitate his spiritual hunger. Daniels passion for the Lord caused him to seek spiritual food rather than physical food, which should be the desire for anyone doing the Daniel Fast.
The food guidelines are given to help you set boundaries for your fast. Theyre not meant to push you into legalism. The focus of the Daniel Fast is not the food. Instead, its all about setting your eyes on the Father and drawing near to Him. To view a detailed list of foods, see Food Guidelines.
WHY DO WE FAST?
In the Old Testament, when the Nation of Israel sought to hear Gods voice clearly, repent before the Lord,or conquer an enemy, they engaged in a collective fast (Daniel 9:3-5; Deut 9: 15-18; 2 Chron. 20:3-4).
Within the New Testament we see that Jesus not only embarked on a 40 day fast before beginning His ministry, but He also EXPECTED his followers to fast (Matt. 6:16-18; Matt. 9:14-17). During Abundant Life 21days of fasting and prayer, it will be a wonderful time of hearing God, receiving guidance and continuing to maximize our potential for Gods Glory.
SUPPORT DURING THE FAST
The 21-Day Daniel Fast is a corporate fast in which the entire Abundant Life Church can participate. While many of you are familiar and have done 3-Day, Liquid, Partial, or even 40 - Day fasts, this one is a Vegetable, Fruit, Water and Juice fast.
To help ensure we all are successful during this fast, Abundant Life will be providing
1) a 21-Day Fasting and Prayer Guideline
2) A Daily confession,
3) Daily scripture reading
We want everyone to use these 21-Days of Consecration to write out your goals and what you seek to accomplish during this time. What are some areas you want to see victory in your life? What sins are you struggling with that you want to conquer once and for all? Habakkuk 2:3 says, write the vision down and make it plain.... We encourage you to write down your goals. A goals sheet will be provided for you to chart your progress and success. I want to encourage you to keep a journal so you can hear what the Lord is saying to you during this time of prayer, meditation and reflection.
Remember: Fasting doesnt change God, fasting changes you! Rely in the Word of God to transform your life and confirm your will to his will.
A word to Couples: During this time, married couples should also abstain from intimate relationships. (I Corinthians 7:3-5)
TIPS & RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Fasting from creature comforts can be substituted for individuals with medical concerns. If you are pregnant or have a medical condition, consult with your physician BEFORE participating in the fast.
2. Children, especially small children, will have special needs that must be considered. Under these conditions, find some sacrifice in the area of toys or food (candy, fast food) that can be made without endangering health.
3. If you have extreme difficulty with the fast, such as impairment of your ability to work at your job, you will have to make adjustments. Seek the Lord and discuss it with other mature Christians involved in the fast to find alternatives.
Gods kingdom isnt a matter of what you put in your stomach, for goodness sake. Its what God does with your life as He sets it right, puts it together, and completes it with joy. Your task is to single-mindedly serve Christ. (Romans 14, The Message, p.332)
How to Begin
Start with a clear goal. Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, restoration ofmarriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Pray daily and read the Bible
Preparing Spiritually
Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4). Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2).
What to expect
When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause a mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus' example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God's face.
How to End
Don't over eat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat smallportions or snacks
Click Image for Entire 21-day Daniel Fast Package
|