Ultimate Daniel Fast

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Are You Ready for Easter?

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Easter 2014 cross“Our God is a God who saves!” – Psalm 68:20 NLT

For believers, Easter Sunday is a high time of worship as we celebrate victory in Christ. But for many, Easter is nothing more than chocolate bunnies and plastic eggs. People who haven’t accepted God’s gift of salvation don’t understand why it’s such a glorious day.

That’s exactly why we must pray.

Over the next three weeks, set aside time to intercede for others, especially for unsaved family and friends to know the Lord. You might consider a Daniel Fast, water fast, or juice fast. Ask God to show you what to do.

Friend, there isn’t time to waste.  Our loved ones need our fervent prayers. Let’s press in and believe God for great things during this Easter season!

(Need guidance on how to pray? Follow my Lent 2014 Prayer Guide).

The Daniel Fast and Lent

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Lent 2014

March 5th is Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Lenten season. Lent is a special time when the Church remembers how Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert before He launched His public ministry. Although mostly observed by Roman Catholics, Lutherans, Methodists, and Presbyterians, Lent is becoming increasingly popular among evangelicals and other denominations. (SIGN UP HERE to receive your Lent 2014 Prayer Guide).

The purpose of Lent is to reflect on Jesus Christ — his life, death, burial, and resurrection. Typically, people abstain from meat during Lent and may also give up other vices, such as sweets, television, or Facebook. Many believers also participate in a Daniel Fast.

The Daniel Fast is a 21-day partial fast based upon the prophet Daniel’s experiences in the Bible. The purpose of the fast is to restrict commonly enjoyed foods as an act of worship and consecration to God (see Food Guidelines). On one occasion, Daniel was greatly concerned for his people and sought the Lord’s 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 Daniel’s eating habits during that time: “I ate only plain and simple food.” The idea behind the fast is not to duplicate Daniel’s menu but to imitate his spiritual hunger. Daniel’s 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.

How will you prepare for Easter Sunday? Consider doing the Daniel Fast as you celebrate what the Lord has done for you!

Peachy Keen Smoothie

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Peachy Keen Smoothie

Peachy Keen Smoothie

I like smoothies, especially green ones. When I made Peachy Keen for the first time, I loved it. But, I decided to get my husband's opinion before posting the recipe. Justin is not a big fan of weird-colored drinks. He's more of a Strawberry-Banana Smoothie kind of guy.
Justin's first comment was, "It doesn't taste like it looks." (In other words, I'm surprised it tastes so great because of the color! ) Then, after a few more gulps, he said, "This is excellent, babe!" If my husband approves, I know you will, too.
4.80 from 5 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Breakfast, Drinks, Snack
Servings 2
Calories 151 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, rice, soy or water)
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen banana, peeled (about 1 medium banana)
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen peaches
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or kale leaves
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts (about ½ ounce)
  • 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal, optional

Instructions
 

  • Place all ingredients in a blender, and process until smooth.
  • Yield: 2 servings (serving size: about 8 ounces or 1 cup)

Video

Notes

  • If your smoothie is too thick, add a little more non-dairy milk or water.
  • Make sure either the banana or peaches are frozen so your smoothie is chilled.
  • To freeze bananas, remove peels before placing in freezer. Put in a plastic zip-top bag until completely frozen.
  • Flaxseed meal is a powder made from ground flaxseeds. It's high in fiber and a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Nutrition

Calories: 151kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 4gFat: 8gFiber: 5gSugar: 11g

Come Right In

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open door

“Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” – Hebrews 4:16

Leviticus is not my favorite book in the Bible. It tends to be monotonous and confusing. Today, though, I found a powerful, liberating truth buried deeply among the long list of rules.

In Chapter 16 God gives Moses instructions to pass on to his brother, Aaron. The Lord said, “Tell your brother Aaron not to come whenever he chooses into the Most Holy Place…or else he will die….” (16:2). That statement sounds unbelievably harsh, unless you understand the context. 

Aaron was a priest. The main responsibility of priests was to offer sacrifices on behalf of the people and seek atonement for their sin. However, before performing their duties, priests had to spend hours in preparation. Leviticus 8-9 explains in great detail the steps Aaron and his sons had to take before meeting with the Almighty God. They had to be washed with water, wear special clothing, and be anointed with oil. In other words, they had to purify themselves.

Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, were also priests. While serving in the tabernacle one day, they completely disregarded God’s commands and decided to do things their own way. As a result, the Lord put them to death. When this unfortunate event occurred, God reminded Aaron of the seriousness of his position and the consequences of failing to honor God’s holiness.

As I read this passage, I was thankful freedom we have in Christ. Because Jesus died for our sin, we don’t have to live in fear as Aaron did. We can approach God with boldness at any time, and he promises to lavish us with love when we do!

You don’t have to “get ready” or make yourself clean to meet with God. He invites you to come just as you are. Any time. Whenever you choose.

Stay Free

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stay free, free in Christ

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” – Galatians 5:1a

A few years ago I went to prison. Not as an inmate, but as a guest on a tour. The whole experience was awkward and unsettling. Although it was an interesting experience, I was relieved when the tour was completed. As soon as we exited the building, I took a deep breath, thankful for fresh air. Thankful to be free.

However, there was a time when I was locked up behind steel bars, just like those men. But, one day – June 3, 1979, to be exact – I was set free! The chains that held me were broken, and I was released. God forgave my sin and granted me eternal life in him!

You would think that after leaving that dark, lonely place, I would never ever be tempted to return. But I have been. And I am. Perhaps you can relate. Negative thought patterns. Idolatry. Fits of anger. Lies, pride, lust, and envy. A few steps here and there in the wrong direction and soon the feet are shackled once again.

Friend, this is not what God has for us! Jesus’ death and resurrection severed our bondage forever. He freed us from the control of sin, enabling us to live through the power of the Holy Spirit. However, it’s entirely possible for one set free to return to captivity. That’s why the apostle Paul said, “Make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery” (Galatians 5:1b NLT). How do we stay free? By believing God’s commands. By refusing to listen to the lies of the enemy. By trusting in the Lord and leaning on his strength.

If you’re praying for victory over a particular sin, you need to know something: You already have it! Walk right out of your prison cell now. Hold your head up high and declare, “I will walk in freedom!” (Psalm 119:45) Remember, you’re no longer a slave to sin, you’re a slave to righteousness! Jesus Christ has set you free. Therefore, make every effort to stay free!

Top 10 Snacks for Super Bowl Sunday

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Super Easy Guacamole, Daniel Fast snack, guacamole recipe

In three days, thousands of Americans will gather to watch the biggest sporting event of the year. That’s right, friends. It’s Super Bowl time!

Next to Thanksgiving, Super Bowl Sunday ranks as the #1 day for food consumption. The big game is as much about the snacks as it is about the sport. It’s pizza and hot wings. Chips and dip. Chex Mix and cookies. For someone on the Daniel Fast, though, this type of setting presents a huge challenge. If you can’t have meat, dairy products, sugar, or caffeine, what can you eat on Super Bowl Sunday? Plenty, if you refer to the tasty recipes on my website.

Following are the Ultimate Daniel Fast’s Top 10 Super Bowl Snacks:

 1. Almond Butter Bites
 2. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
 3. Salsa
 4. Spinach-Artichoke Dip
 5. Super Easy Guacamole
 6. Fruit Pizza
 7. Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts
 8. Date Honey
 9. Confetti Hummus
10. Grilled Veggie Kebabs

Which one (or two) will you take to your Super Bowl Party?

January 2014 Daniel Fast Testimonies

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Press On.

“Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him.” – Hosea 6:3 NLT

More than 5,100 people cried out to God during the “Press On” January 2014 Online Daniel Fast. Following are testimonies from believers who are pressing on to know the Lord. I pray you’re encouraged and filled with hope as you read about the great things God has done!

  • “I love how this fast not only changed my eating habits but changed my desire to seek more of the Lord in my everyday activities.” – Jeneve
  • “I’ve been unemployed since September. Although I’ve had temporary jobs, I didn’t work at all in December. I’ve been feeling pretty low and desperate. When I decided to do the Daniel Fast, I made employment my prayer focus. The day after my fast was over, I received a call from a job I interviewed for last month. They asked me to come in for round two of the interview process. The second day after my fast, my former employer called to let me know about an opening and gave me someone to contact. I emailed the contact, and he responded within fifteen minutes. He said the job was mine if I wanted it! I cried. Praise God! I feel like a weight has been lifted.” – Nichelle
  • “I see the enemy in retreat! I see victory and restoration in my life! Praise the Lord!” – Wes
  • About six months ago I registered for my first half marathon. Considering I’m not a runner, this was going to be a huge challenge for me. At the time, I didn’t realize the race would coincide with my fast. I started the fast on January 1st with concerns that I wouldn’t have the energy to complete the half marathon. I knew I wouldn’t be able to drink the Gatorade at the hydration stations or eat the energy gels since they contain sugar and caffeine. Initially, I planned to finish two weeks of the fast, and then pray about whether I should finish the last week. On day fourteen of the fast, I read the devotion in your book titled, “Run.” I realized God was saying He would give me strength to finish the fast AND the half marathon. It also reminded me that physical training is good but spiritual training is so much more important. I’m pleased to tell you that with God’s grace and power, I crossed the finish line of my first half marathon on January 19th after 2 hours,16 minutes, and 20 seconds! The most amazing part was that I felt great. I had a few bruised toenails, but absolutely no muscle pain or soreness. God is good! Thank you for the motivation and devotions that you provide.” – Julie
  • “The biggest lesson I learned on the fast is that God is in control. All I have to do is trust in Him and praise Him.” – Rita
  • “Our church corporately participated this year for the first time, and it’s amazing to see how God is working in our lives. We feel blessed by what you’ve shared with us – the recipes, the devotions in the book, and the encouragement of your daily emails. Personally, I had several things I was asking the Lord about during the fast.  A few of those He answered almost immediately (including finding a lost wedding ring for a family member) and several of those issues He’s still working out in/through me. The results are all in His time for His glory!” – Tara
  • “I reaped so many benefits from this fast, especially closeness to God. Bonds are being broken, and I’m in conversation and study daily with Him.” – Dave

Praise the Lord! I cannot wait to see how He continues to answer our prayers this year. All glory to His holy name!

If you would like to be informed of future online fasts, sign up for my monthly newsletter.

Strawberry Fields Smoothie

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Strawberry Fields Smoothie

Strawberry Fields Smoothie

A refreshing smoothie that combines the sweetness of fruit with the power-packed nutrition of leafy greens. This drink is packed with vitamins and minerals to jump start your day or provide an afternoon energy boost.
4.34 from 3 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Breakfast, Drinks, Snack
Servings 2
Calories 133 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, rice milk, or soy milk
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen banana, peeled (about 1 medium banana)
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen strawberries
  • 1 cup fresh mixed greens, spinach, kale leaves, chard, etc.
  • 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal, optional

Instructions
 

  • Place all ingredients in a blender, and process until smooth.
  • Yield: 2 servings (serving size: about 8 ounces or 1 cup)

Video

Notes

  • Substitute water in place of non-dairy milk (or half of it).
  • Make sure either the banana or strawberries are frozen so your smoothie is chilled.
  • To freeze bananas, remove peels before placing in freezer. Put in a plastic zip-top bag until completely frozen.
  • Flaxseed meal is a powder made from ground flaxseeds. It's high in fiber and a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids.

Nutrition

Calories: 133kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 4gFiber: 5gSugar: 9g

 

Georgia on My Mind

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“Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another.” – 2 John 1:6 NLT

It had been weeks since I’d stopped to visit. I felt terrible about staying away so long. Life had been crazy busy as I worked to meet my book deadline. However, a few days after I turned in the manuscript and felt a sense of freedom, I thought of Georgia.

As soon as I saw her, I knew she wasn’t in a good place. She was lethargic. Her speech was clear, but her words made no sense at all. Georgia’s confusion frustrated me. I tried to carry on a conversation with her, but it was useless. After about ten minutes of her gibberish, I got impatient. “Georgia, do you know who I am?” I said. She turned her head, looked me right into the eyes, and answered, “Yes.” Then she resumed her rambling. As I sat there, I sensed the Holy Spirit whisper, “Pray with her.” Normally, I would have. I usually do pray with her when we’re together. However, that day I didn’t.

I’m not sure why. OK, so maybe I have an idea: I didn’t believe my prayer would make a difference.

A few minutes later, I said good-bye to Georgia and gave her a quick “I’m glad to be done here” hug. I was sad – yes, for Georgia, but also for myself. My heart grieved over my lack of compassion. My soul ached as I came face-to-face with my selfishness.

Three years ago this week God brought Miss Georgia into our lives. That day, December 13, 2010, the Lord opened my eyes to one forgotten by the rest of the world. He asked me to look after her and care for her as if she was my own grandmother. I started strong. I believed God wanted to do something miraculous in Georgia’s life. Somewhere along the way, though, discouragement set in. My hopes were dashed as I watched Georgia decline mentally and physically. Instead of praying more intensely for my friend’s healing, I became skeptical, doubting God’s ability to transform a life. Her life.

It has been a long time since I’ve written about Georgia. However, God woke me up at 4:00 a.m. this morning, and I had Georgia on my mind. As I lay in bed, I remembered the responsibility the Lord has given me. I renewed my commitment care for this one who desperately needs Him.

Yes, medication clouds Georgia’s thinking. Yes, her mind isn’t what it used to be. However, our God is all-powerful. He is a God who answers prayer! He is a God who performs miracles! Do I believe that? Yes, I do. I do.

I can’t fix Georgia. I can’t save her.

Only God can.

All He asks of me is this: Love Georgia. Be her friend. Laugh with her. Hold her. Pray with her. Pray for her.

And I will. With God’s help, I will.

January 2014 Online Daniel Fast

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Press On.

Do you know the Lord?

I’m not asking, “Do you go to church?” Or, “Do you believe in God?” Or even, “Have you been saved?” What I mean is, “Do you know the Lord personally?” Are you familiar with His character – his love, his mercy, and his grace?

The apostle Paul certainly was, and yet his greatest passion in life was to grow in his knowledge of the Lord and His ways. Paul said, “I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead” (Philippians 3:10 NLT).

Is that your desire as well? It definitely is mine. That’s why every January I begin the New Year with prayer and fasting.

Will you join me next month? Will you partner with thousands of believers around the world by participating in the Daniel Fast January 5-25, 2014? If so, I challenge you to make two commitments:

1) Sign up for the “Press On” January 2014 Online Daniel Fast through my website. You’ll receive a daily email from me, which will include recipe ideas and fasting tips. Registration for the fast has ended.

2) Invite people to participate. Post about the Daniel Fast on Twitter or Facebook. Share the “Press On” promotional video. If you have a blog, write about the fast. Get other people in your life excited about seeking God!

2014 is going to be a spectacular year. God offers a multitude of blessings to those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Don’t stay where you are with Jesus. Press on to know Him!

(Be sure to get your copy of The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast to help you on your journey!)

Coconut-Date Cookies

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Coconut-Date Cookies

Coconut-Date Cookies

The best part about this recipe is you can enjoy it and not feel guilty. Every ingredient is Daniel Fast friendly and good for you!
3.59 from 41 votes
Print Recipe
Course Dessert, Snack
Servings 14

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
  • ½ cup coconut flour
  • ½ cup roughly chopped dates
  • ¼ cup Date Honey
  • ¼ cup chopped almonds
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Place all ingredients in a large bowl, and stir well. Scoop out 1 generous tablespoon of dough and shape into a ball. Place on an 11 x 17-inch cookie sheet lined with a silicone mat. Flatten slightly. Repeat with remaining dough.
  • Bake 15-20 minutes or until slightly browned on the bottom.
  • Yield: 14 servings (serving size: about 1 cookie)

Notes

  • Use sliced almonds instead of chopped almonds.
  • Substitute coconut flour with almond flour, brown rice flour, or any whole grain flour.

Fear

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justin and belle

“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10

Isabelle wasn’t coming down without a fight. Our 6-year-old had just climbed thirty-five-foot rock face like a seasoned pro. She had no problem navigating the various rock formations, easily finding a handhold here, a foothold there. Avid rock climbers, my husband and I were beaming with pride when she did it all by herself.

Isabelle climbingOnce she got to the top, her dad talked her through what she needed to do to come back down to the ground. She had done it at least a dozen times in the past, so we were confident she would descend easily without a problem. Suddenly, though, her foot slipped. She spun around, slammed her elbow against the rock wall, and ended up dangling in the air. All I heard was her blood-curdling scream. Actually, it was a series of screams. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her so panicked.

We tried to calm her down, but it was no use. Nothing we said got through to her. Between sobs, she cried out, “I’m scared! I can’t do it! My elbow hurts! I don’t know what to do!” She was paralyzed with fear and determined to stay right where she was until her father came to her rescue.

As a parent, it was frustrating for me to see my daughter struggle, especially when she didn’t have to. I tried to remain patient and loving, but after several unsuccessful attempts to coax her down, I began to get angry. Why wouldn’t she let us help her? Didn’t she trust us? Couldn’t she see we weren’t going to let her fall?

Eventually, my husband climbed up to her. At first, Isabelle didn’t even want his help and refused to move toward him. Stubborn girl. Eventually, though, she took her father’s hand and slowly made her way to the ground. She cried the whole way down.

As we drove home, I thought about how often I am just like Isabelle. Many times I’m hanging out on the side of a mountain in my life, white-knuckled with worry and fear. All I can think about are the what-ifs: What if I can’t do it? What if I make a mistake? What if I get hurt? I cry out to God for His help, but when He reaches out to me, I resist. Yet, the Lord is always the perfect parent. He doesn’t chastise or condemn. He simply waits patiently until I get my act together. If I refuse to submit and remain in rebellion, he comes to my rescue. He brings me back to Himself, even if I kick and scream all the way.

God loves us and wants the best for us. All we have to do is trust Him. Our Father has a tight grip and won’t ever let us go.

Lord, because You are with me, I have nothing to fear. Thank you for giving me strength when I am weak. You are my Rock, and I put my trust in You alone.