What does it take to get in better physical shape? You have to push yourself beyond what’s comfortable. You can’t just sit around and think about working out. You have to get off the couch and do it.
The same is true spiritually.
To grow stronger in the Lord, you must exercise your muscles on a regular basis. I’m not talking about your biceps or quads here, either. I’m referring to your spiritual “muscles” – those unseen parts that make up the inner you – your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
But how are those muscles developed? I’m glad you asked.
My book, Spiritually Strong: The Ultimate 6-Week Guide to Building Your Body and Soul, outlines six exercises that will train your spiritual core – Bible study, prayer, fasting, healthy living, financial stewardship, and serving others. As you develop self-discipline in these areas, you will learn to:
- Study the Bible and understand what God is saying to you.
- Pray with power.
- Incorporate periodic fasting into your life.
- Honor God with your body through nutritious eating and exercise.
- Practice good stewardship of the resources God has given you.
- Serve others in humility as an outward demonstration of God’s love.
(Watch the Spiritually Strong book trailer for more information.)
The Spiritually Strong program includes a 6-week Bible study and a workout plan. It’s perfect for small groups, but you can also do it on your own.
God has called you to be strong in Him and in His mighty power (Eph. 6:10). So do your best to get physically and spiritually fit. You don’t want to miss out on God’s best for your life!
Kristen Feola
Author and Former Personal Trainer
Hello I want to know do u have to do fast for 21 day this is my first time
Hi, Janet! The typical Daniel Fast is usually three weeks because it’s based upon the prophet Daniel’s fast in the Bible (see Dan. 10:2). But, you can do the fast for three days, seven days, 10 days, etc. There is no set amount of time, but my book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast, takes you through the three-week fast. Thanks for your question! Don’t be intimidated by the 21-day time period. You can do it! 🙂
Please include me in this! It is a God sent and I believe the Lord is directing me to this!
Hi, Elaine! I’m so glad you want to get stronger physically AND spiritually! You’ll need to read Parts 1 and 2 of Spiritually Strong, as well as Chapter 10, before beginning the online study. Right now, we’re starting week 3 of the online study that began on March 9. Our next online study will begin toward the end of April (should be announcing the date in a few days). I’d love for you to join! Basically, the online study is a community of believers who go through the Spiritually Strong program together. When you sign up, you receive a weekly email from me, along with access to a private Facebook forum. Email me if you have any questions (kristen@kristenfeola.com).
Hi, I’m on day 5 of the Daniel fast and have come down with a URI- drippy nose, post nasal drip, headache and am longing for a cup of tea/ coffee. I’ve been off coffee now since Ash Wednesday and tapered off tea- Praise God have gotten over the tea cravings.
Can I drink tea/ coffee and then get back onto the fast when i’m better?
Should i stick with the fast? I know I should- but Jesus Himself said that the Sabbath was made for man.
in a bit of a quandry
lisa
Hi, Lisa. I’m sorry you’re struggling physically. I understand because on day 1 of my Daniel Fast in January 2013, I came down with the flu. It was so hard to stay on the fast because I was so sick and weak. But I also learned about God in a way I never would have if I’d quit early. The Lord showed me how His power is made perfect in my weakness. When I was weak, the Lord was strong in me. I’m not going to tell you what to do, but I will tell you that God will help you finish strong. 🙂 May the Lord strengthen you and uphold you with His righteous right hand as you trust in Him!
Hi Kristen- I couldn’t complete the Daniel Fast over Lent. So, I’m doing it now – its hot in central India where I live and praise God am on Day 13. Thank you for your encouraging message which you sent me in March. So glad that I saw it today. This time, I have many concerns that I need God to take over and I’m already seeing Him answer in a miraculous way. Praise God- He’s such a great God!!
God bless you- He is our keeper, the shade at our right hand..
Lisa, thanks so much for your comments! I’m glad you’re doing the Daniel Fast right now and that you saw my message at just the right time! May God continue to pour out His favor on your life as you seek Him wholeheartedly.
God bless you Kristen.
Looking forward to reading this book. I have the daniel fast book and have used it more than once can’t wait! Thanks for your beautiful work and may God bless you
Hi, Grace! Thanks so much for your encouragement! I’m glad you’ve been blessed by The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast. 🙂 I pray you also enjoy Spiritually Strong. May the Lord bless you abundantly this year as you seek to grow in Him!
My husband and I start our fast today we are very excited thank you I think this will be dinner #1 to start off this great journey THANKS!!
I’m glad to hear you and your husband are doing the Daniel fast together! Thanks for your comment. But I think it got put on the wrong page! What recipe did you try?
Thank you for this!
You’re welcome!
Thank you for sharing!