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Apple, Pomegranate, and Kale Salad

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Apple, Pomegranate, and Kale Salad

Apple, Pomegranate, and Kale Salad

This beautiful salad recipe is perfect for a party, holiday gathering, or dinner at home. It's a wonderful complement to a Daniel Fast soup or main dish.
4.38 from 16 votes
Print Recipe
Course Salad
Servings 8
Calories 164 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 cups torn kale leaves, ribs removed, lightly packed
  • 2 cups chopped apples
  • 1 ½ cups mandarin orange segments (about 4 mandarins)
  • ½ cup chopped toasted chopped walnuts
  • ½ cup pomegranate arils

Dressing

  • ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin coconut or olive oil
  • 2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Place kale leaves in a large bowl, and set aside. Whisk applesauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in a smaller bowl (you can also mix in a blender).
  • Pour dressing over kale, and use your hands to massage onto leaves. Add apples, oranges, walnuts and arils. Stir well to coat.

Notes

  • To toast walnuts, heat skillet over medium heat. Add walnuts to the hot, dry skillet. Cook about 5 minutes, stirring frequently so walnuts don’t burn. When walnuts are slightly browned, transfer to a small bowl to cool.
  • Substitute apples with pears.
  • Use pecans instead of walnuts.
  • If you have a nut allergy, you can use sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead of walnuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 164kcalCarbohydrates: 20gFat: 8gFiber: 6gSugar: 9g

Butternut Squash Fries

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Butternut Squash Fries

Butternut Squash Fries

Three words. Best fries EVER. Seriously! But since these fries are not deep-fried, they won't get as crispy as regular French fries. But that's ok. The unique flavor more than makes up for it.
4 from 6 votes
Print Recipe
Course Side Dish
Servings 4
Calories 132 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeds removed, and sliced into fries about 3” L x ½”W (or to desired size)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Prepare an 11 x 17 baking sheet by coating it with a little coconut oil. You can also use a silicone mat.
  • Place fries in a large bowl. Stir in one tablespoon of coconut oil, and toss until well coated. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir again.
  • Pour fries onto baking sheet, making sure none of the pieces overlap. You may need to use two baking sheets to cook at one time (or cook in two batches).
  • Bake 20 minutes on a middle oven rack. Use a metal spatula to flip fries, and then bake another 15-20 minutes.
  • Turn over to broiler setting, and flip fries one more time. Move baking sheet to the top rack. Broil 5 minutes, or until desired crispness is reached.

Notes

  • Substitute coconut oil with a different oil (avocado oil, sesame oil, etc.).
  • Use a crinkle cutter to make restaurant-style fries.
 

Nutrition

Calories: 132kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 2gFat: 4gFiber: 5gSugar: 5g

Acorn Squash Hummus

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Acorn Squash Hummus

Acorn Squash Hummus

Adding acorn squash to hummus takes it to a whole new nutritional level, boosting your intake of vitamins A, C, and B-6. The squash adds a subtle, sweet flavor that you'll enjoy.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe
Course Snack
Servings 12
Calories 146 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup cooked acorn squash
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions
 

  • Place ingredients in a food processor or blender. Process, scraping sides of bowl often, until mixture is a smooth paste. You can either refrigerate at this point, or serve immediately.

Notes

  • Substitute butternut squash for acorn squash for a slightly different flavor.
  • Hummus has more flavor after it has been refrigerated at least 24 hours before serving. It can be refrigerated up to a week and frozen up to 3 months.
  • Use as a dip for fresh vegetables.
  • Serve with Whole Grain Tortillas.

Nutrition

Calories: 146kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 5gFat: 10gFiber: 3g

The Pain You Don’t See

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Commodus, 5.10a, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, Jasper, AR

I stood at the base of Commodus, a popular, 5.10a sport climbing route at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch near Jasper, AR. It was a sunny September day, and the weather was perfect. Climbers from all over the country had gathered at Horseshoe for a full day of climbing. Since Commodus is a classic route, several people wanted to get on it, including Justin and me. So when it was finally our turn, I was ready to go.

Justin had already led the route, which means he had attached our rope to the fixed bolts along the wall with carabiners. After he had reached the top of Commodus and secured the rope in the anchors, Justin descended to belay me. My job was to follow him and remove the carabiners, a process known as “cleaning.”

I tied in, chalked up, and started up the rock. The climb to the first bolt was easy and fun. The handholds and footholds were solid. All I had to do was unclip the first carabiner and continue on up to the next bolt.

But I had trouble unclipping. With my right arm extended and left hand holding on, I could barely reach the bolt. Because I was stretched out, the tension on the rope was tight.

I gave the rope a big jerk to force it out of the carabiner. When I did, I came off the rock. I knew I was going to take a fall, but I expected Justin’s belay device to activate before I hit the ground. It didn’t.

Directly underneath me was a tall, pointy rock. When the sharp edge made contact with my tailbone, I cried out like a wounded animal. The pain was immediate and intense. A warm sensation swept over my whole body. I felt nauseated and thought I would throw up. 

Slowly, I stood up. The last thing I wanted to do was keep climbing. But, after a few minutes, I forced myself to get back on the wall. I didn’t want fear to keep me grounded, that day or in the future. I had to conquer Commodus. And I did. Bruised backside and all.

I struggled with constant pain for the next two weeks. It hurt to walk. To sit. And even to lie down. I only felt relief when standing for short amounts of time.

Most people around me had no idea how much I was suffering. Only an extremely observant person would have noticed my gait was a little awkward, like I’d been riding a horse too long. Only someone watching my body language would have picked up on how slowly I moved. And only those paying close attention would have seen my slight grimace as I shifted my body weight from one cheek to the other when I’d been sitting too long.

One day when I was especially uncomfortable, I sensed the Lord speaking to my heart about my experience, challenging me to consider it from a spiritual perspective.

Every day I come into contact with hurting people. People who are in great distress, not from a rock climbing accident, but from circumstances in their lives, past and present. Abuse, rejection, neglect, addiction, and betrayal have caused massive internal injuries. Only I don’t see their pain. I’m not paying attention. I’m too preoccupied with myself to notice.

But I’m not the only one in this predicament. Every human being on this planet struggles with self-centeredness. It’s part of our sinful nature. We’re all guilty of getting caught up in the details of our own lives. But we can do better. We can change! Through the power of the Holy Spirit, you and I can become more focused on others instead of ourselves.

If that’s your desire – to be more aware of people’s hurts and ways you can help – pray this prayer with me today:

“God, I confess that I think too much and too often about myself. Your Word says, ‘Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too” (Phil. 2:4 NLT).’ Open my physical and spiritual eyes to the people around me. Give me your heart – a heart of compassion and comfort – and show me how to alleviate their suffering. Thank you for teaching me how to grow in this area of my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Once you’ve asked God to increase your sensitivity to others, you can be confident He will answer such a request. In fact, be on the alert. The Lord just might send someone your way today.

[Note: A climber who rated Commodus online as a 5-star climb commented, “Pleasant balancey climbing with some reachy moves. Loved it. A fall might be painful.” Might be? I know from experience that a fall is definitely painful on this route!]

August 2016 Daniel Fast Testimonies

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August 2016 Daniel FastWhen my pastor announced in mid-June that we would be doing a church-wide Daniel Fast in early August, I immediately prayed about my response. Of course, I would participate, but I believed God wanted me to do something more.

I shared about the fast on my website, inviting others outside James River Church to join us. I had no idea how many people would respond. After all, August is not typically a popular time to do the fast. Families are often on vacation. Teachers and students are gearing up to go back to school. So when more than 800 people signed up, I was overwhelmed! The high number just confirmed to me that God had something miraculous in store for all of us.

The August 2016 Daniel Fast was a wonderful, life-changing journey! The online fast was held August 1-21, 2016. Participants who signed up through my Ultimate Daniel Fast website received two emails each week. Emails contained a short devotion, fasting/prayer tips, recipes, and other helpful resources.

Even though our Daniel Fast has concluded, it certainly hasn’t ended. God is still at work! I believe we’ll continue to see answers to our prayers in the coming weeks, months, and years as we trust in the Lord.

Many participants have emailed to share what God has done. Following are testimonies from the online fast:

“God is great. He took my hand and made this fast an easy journey. He showed me that I needed to be more like him in so many ways. I’m so thankful I did this fast with my wife. It has brought us closer together through Christ. Over the past three weeks we had some very stressful family situations and friendships to deal with. Had it not been for this fast and being focused, we both know it would had been much harder. We’re also going to continue eating much healthier as we both feel so much better. Praise be to God.” – Wayne

“My daughters and son did the fast with me. There were a lot of failings on the fast, especially in the beginning, but we made it through. Thank you for inviting us! – Felicia

“Thank you for your emails, recipes, and prayers during this Daniel Fast. My husband and I both participated, and it was truly amazing.  Prayers were answered and the blessings are flowing.” – Kimberly
 
“I had a number of requests, which, so far, haven’t been answered like I anticipated. In fact, for me, it was the opposite. One request I had was for a salary increase at work, which was declined. But I didn’t react like I normally would have, which shocked me. I just looked at my manager and told him it was okay. The calmness and stillness is my testimony. In normal circumstances, I would have cried, panicked, and become discouraged. God’s timing is best, so I know somehow this request will be answered.” – Patricia
 
“We were reluctant to participate in this Daniel Fast because we knew we’d participate in the 2017 Daniel Fast. But God confirmed to my wife that we should, and I’m overjoyed that we listened! We were given an unexpected 25% discount at the cash register for shoes our children desperately needed. Also, a spot supernaturally opened up for our child to attend a private school (there were multiple lists and our child was on the second to last list). I received a job offer for a job that initially did not accept me. I pray for those struggling to stay faithful and to develop the habit of doing small things well! I also pray that this be a season of turning for many others!” – Foster
 
“I started this fast knowing God had called me to it. You said that it would be life changing, which I doubted, but it truly was. After three horrible days of withdrawal from sugar, caffeine, and processed foods, I began to feel better, lighter, and more clear-headed. I asked the Lord to help me to remove anything that I relied on besides Him. I thought it was just food and coffee. But on Day 4, when I went to take my antidepressants, it was like the Lord said, “What about this?” I froze because I’ve tried to come off the medication before. I’ve also convinced in my mind and by doctors that I would have to always take them. But I trusted God and His voice. I prayed and took a reduced dosage every day since and have experienced no side effects. Praise the one and only God and His work in our lives.” – Lauree
 
“On July 31 (the day before the fast began), I took a pregnancy test, and it came up positive! We’ve been praying for a baby for a while now, and God knew when He would bless with one! I’m super excited because He heard our prayers!” – Janae 

“When I first received the email about joining the August 2016 Daniel Fast, I was excited but a little skeptical. I usually do the 21-day fast in January and didn’t know if I could tackle this one. However, I asked God to help me. I struggled the first seven days with all sorts of conflicts. Some days were just too intense to pray. I continued to stay with the fast, praying and reading my Bible. I began to feel distraught and discouraged when I felt the Lord speak gently to me saying, “And having done everything, STAND!” I’d received my breakthrough! God was telling me to continue standing on his promises no matter what. I received those words and applied them every time the enemy whispered in my ear that the fast was just a waste of time and nothing was happening. After the seventh day, I started to feel a peaceful spirit and an inward confidence. Then it happened! I had been out of work for a year and was desperate for a job. Well, guess what? I was offered a position, and I’m currently working. I give God all the glory because I know this is only the beginning of God’s blessings for me. I want to encourage everyone who participated in this fast. If you haven’t yet received your miracle, don’t give up! Continue praying and standing on God’s Word for whatever your situation might be.” – Sara

“It was an extremely challenging period in many ways, but I had no doubt that God led me into this fast. I saw miraculous answers to prayers on behalf of family members and friends. Yet I also encountered many seeming mishaps and testings that I felt discouraged sometimes. There were a few days I was so rushed that I did not spend enough time with the Lord, and I felt like giving up and coming off the fast. But then you sent encouragement via email or someone called to ask how my fast was going. I have extended my fast as I am in a 40-day prayer challenge. I look forward to future times of fasting.” – Paulette

“The Lord is so good in that He answered and ministered to me during this time.  1) He reminded me to be more grateful by thanking Him for His provisions each month when we receive our pension checks/other income. We used to do this but have gotten away from it. He also impressed me to pray over our tithe/faith promise to the church. 2) Next, He gave me confirmation of what my next Life Group Bible study should be. 3) He surprised me with an answer to prayer for harmony in our marriage which I have long been praying about.” – Charlene 

When I received your email, I decided right away to participate. The first thing I did was buy a prayer journal and begin writing my requests. Before the fast even started, my prayers were answered. My daughter got a teaching job. It was a miracle from God! I am so thankful for your invitation to do the fast. My faith and trust in the Lord has increased because of the miracles He has shown me. – Gayle

Praise the Lord for all these wonderful testimonies of His goodness! All glory to His holy name!

If you missed the August 2016 Daniel Fast, you can plan to join the next online fast, which will be held, January 1-21, 2017. More details will be available in late November.

Be sure to get a copy of my book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast, to prepare. The book is a wonderful resource for the fast, providing 21 daily devotions, 100+ recipes, meal plans, grocery shopping lists, and tips on fasting. Also, be sure to subscribe to my monthly newsletter to stay informed about the January 2017 fast and future online fasts.

Daniel Fast Taco Burgers

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Daniel Fast Taco Burger



Taco Burgers

This brown rice and lentil burger is a hearty, filling choice on the Daniel Fast.

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup chopped red onion
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup cooked brown lentils
  • ¼ cup flaxseed meal or whole grain flour
  • 1 ½ tablespoons Taco Seasoning
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions, and cook until soft and translucent.
  3. Place cooked onions, brown rice, lentils, flaxseed meal, and Taco Seasoning in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse about 12-15 times or until mixture has a “meaty” texture. (If you don’t have a food processor, place ingredients in a large bowl, and stir. Use a potato masher to bind ingredients together.)
  4. Scoop out 1/3 cup of mixture, and place on an 11 x 17-inch baking sheet that has been rubbed with olive oil. Flatten and shape into a circle. Repeat with the remaining mixture to make 5 burgers.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes. Flip burgers (a thin metal spatula works best), and cook another 15 minutes.
  • Instead of baking the burgers, you can cook them in a skillet on the stovetop. Prepare skillet by adding about 1 teaspoon or olive oil and rubbing the oil on the surface to prevent sticking. Add burgers to skillet, and flatten with a spatula. Cook 5 minutes, or until bottoms are browned and slightly crispy. Flip, and cook another 5 minutes.
  • Top with Salsa and Super Easy Guacamole.
  • Other topping ideas: Sliced olives, chopped green onions, and chopped tomatoes.

Broiled Brussels Sprouts

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Broiled Brussels Sprouts

 

Broiled Brussels Sprouts

Coconut oil provides a slightly sweet and nutty flavor to these naturally bitter vegetables. And, before you get too excited, that is NOT bacon in the photo! What you see is the result of broiling with a little bit of Date Honey (see Notes below). But this recipe is still very good, even without bacon.
2.77 from 13 votes
Print Recipe
Course Side Dish
Servings 4
Calories 114 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 12- ounce package frozen Brussel sprouts
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Cook Brussels sprouts according to package directions. Drain.
  • Add coconut oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat.
  • Place under oven broiler on top rack (a small toaster oven works well). Broil 15-20 minutes, depending upon the degree of broiling you prefer. Stir halfway through cooking time.
  • Transfer to a glass dish, and serve warm.

Notes

  • When you mix the coconut oil with the salt and pepper, stir in 2 teaspoons of Date Honey to add a touch of sweetness.
  • Substitute coconut oil with a different oil (avocado oil, walnut oil, etc.).

Nutrition

Calories: 114kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 6gFat: 4gFiber: 6gSugar: 4g

Garlic-Sesame Edamame

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Garlic-Sesame Edamame

Garlic-Sesame Edamame

Kristen Feola
Edamame is a great choice on the Daniel Fast. Each 1/2 cup serving contains 8g of protein and 4g fiber. You'll enjoy the combination of flavors in this classic Japanese dish.
4.80 from 5 votes
Print Recipe
Course Main Course
Servings 5
Calories 133 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 14- ounce package frozen edamame (shelled soybeans)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced (about 1 teaspoon)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions
 

  • Cook edamame according to package directions. Drain.
  • While edamame is cooking, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add sesame seeds, and cook until lightly toasted, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat, and place in a small dish.
  • With the same skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Once oil is heated, add garlic and cook about 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
  • Add oil, garlic, sesame seeds, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to drained edamame. Stir well, and serve.

Notes

  • Add another teaspoon of lemon juice, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 133kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 8gFat: 6gFiber: 4gSugar: 1g

August 2016 Daniel Fast

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August 2016 Daniel Fast
One decision can totally change the course of your life. The person you marry. Where you to go to college. Which career you choose.

In August 2009, I chose to participate in the Daniel Fast for the first time. I stepped out in faith, believing God would help me and sustain me. I also anticipated the Lord would work powerfully as I trusted in Him.

And He did. In more ways than I can count.

Now, seven years later, I feel like I’m experiencing déjà vu. Again, our pastor has called for a church-wide Daniel Fast in preparation for the launch of a new campus. Again, he is asking the congregation to join him and the leadership team in prayer and fasting. Again, I’m expecting the Lord to work miracles as I draw near to Him.

But this unique opportunity to draw near to the Lord isn’t just for me. It’s not just limited to the people of James River Church. It’s also for you.

Is there a situation in your life that needs God’s intervention? Are you desperate to hear from the Lord on a particular issue? 

Maybe you’re struggling with your job or facing financial ruin. Perhaps your marriage is falling apart or your child has turned away from the Lord. Or, you need God’s direction regarding an important decision. Whatever your situation, you can experience the presence of the Lord and know Him in a deeper way through the Daniel Fast.

Will you join me? Remember, your decision to commit three weeks to focused prayer can change everything. Everyone who joins the fast will receive encouragement and support from me. After all, we’re in this together!

May the Lord go before us and be glorified as we fast and pray in His name!

kristen signature green.jpg

If you decide to join the August 2016 fast, be sure to get your copy of The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast (if you don’t already have it). My book will help you prepare physically and spiritually.

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast

Why Christians are Slow to Fast

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Why Christians are Slow to Fast by Kristen FeolaThe Bible doesn’t come right out and say, “Thou shalt fast.” But there are several examples of fasting in both the Old and New Testaments. When Jesus taught his disciples basic principles of godly living in the Sermon on the Mount, He spoke directly on the topic of fasting. He said, “When you fast,” not “If you fast.” Jesus’ words in Matt. 6:16 imply that fasting should be a regular practice in the lives of His followers.

Should be. But often isn’t.

And why is that?

I believe it’s because of three main reasons. But before we take a look at those reasons, we need to define the the term fast.

What is fasting?

When you fast, you deny yourself food, or certain foods, for a specified period of time as an act of surrender and worship. Someone who commits to a fast is saying, “Lord, nothing is more important than You. I’m ready to sacrifice my time, my physical comfort and my desires so I can hear from You.”

There are basically three different types of fasts*:

• Absolute — no food or water

• Liquid — water, fruit and vegetable juices, and/or broth

• Partial — eating certain groups of foods and restricting others (i.e., a Daniel Fast)

Why we don’t fast

When you fast, you deny yourself food, or certain foods, for a specified period of time as an act of surrender and worship. Someone who commits to a fast is saying, “Lord, nothing is more important than You. I’m ready to sacrifice my time, my physical comfort and my desires so I can hear from You.”

Anyone who has done a fast — whether absolute, liquid or partial (such as the Daniel Fast)—would agree that fasting is difficult. Physically, you may suffer from unpleasant side effects, such as headaches, fatigue and intestinal discomfort, as your body attempts to adjust to the reduced caloric intake. Spiritually, attacks from the enemy increase in frequency and intensity, resulting in a barrage of frustrations and setbacks that can seem overwhelming.

But, the same people who would be honest about the challenges of fasting would also concur that the sacrifices are well worth the rewards. As you draw near to God, you experience a whole new level of relationship with Him. You become more sensitive to the work of the Holy Spirit and can hear His voice more clearly.

Why, then, would believers refuse such an opportunity to enjoy sweet communion with the Lord? In most cases, it’s not due to a lack of desire. Instead, we hold back because of fear, ignorance or rebellion. And, trust me, I’ve experienced all three.

Fear

We’re afraid. Afraid of the unknown. Afraid of feeling hunger pangs. Afraid of starting and not finishing. Afraid of fasting alone. The enemy gets us all bound up in fearful thoughts, and we convince ourselves we could never do it. Instead of looking to the Lord for strength and help, we become consumed with our weaknesses and paralyzed by fear.

Ignorance

Many Christians simply have not been taught about the importance of seeking God in this way. Churches often do not encourage fasting and, in many cases, never even mention it from the pulpit. For example, I grew up in a Bible-believing church, but I don’t remember hearing a single message on fasting until I was an adult. I wish I would have learned at a much younger age about the benefits and blessings of fasting.

Rebellion

A large segment of the Christian population is aware of the benefits of fasting, yet they’re unwilling to submit to the Lord in this area of their lives. Their hearts are hardened when it comes to the idea of fasting. When God invites them to draw near to Him through a time of focused prayer, they dig their heels into the ground and stubbornly reply, “No!”

Why we should fast

When accompanied by fervent prayer, fasting will help you develop intimacy with the Savior in a powerful way. God promises that when we seek Him wholeheartedly, we will be richly rewarded.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” (Matt. 5:6 NIV).

Following are a few reasons why you should make periodic fasts part of your relationship with the Lord.

  • Fasting is the example set by Jesus.

First and foremost, we should fast because Jesus did. Our Savior spent 40 days and nights in the wilderness fasting and praying before He began His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-11). During that time, the Lord was able to defeat Satan’s attacks because He was prayed up and armed with the Word of God. Jesus’ example shows us how fasting equips and empowers us for victory over sin. If Jesus, the Son of God, recognized the importance of fasting in His life, shouldn’t we as well?

  • Fasting helps you grow in faith.

Self-denial does not come naturally to us because the flesh is wired for indulgence. Therefore, when you commit to a fast, you understand and acknowledge that you can’t do it on your own. You realize how completely dependent you are upon the Lord’s strength and learn to lean on Him for the perseverance you need to finish strong.

  • Fasting changes you.

When you spend time in the Lord’s presence, you’re changed. You’ll be transformed as you meditate on the truth of God’s Word and apply His promises to your life.

Fasting is for anyone who is hungry for the Lord. As you empty yourself — physically and spiritually — you open the door for God to step in and do the miraculous in your life.

Don’t let fear, ignorance or a rebellious spirit keep you from seeking God through prayer and fasting. Accept the Lord’s invitation to draw near to Him today. 

  • Read testimonies from people who have participated in the January 2015 Online Daniel Fast.

(This post is an adaptation from my original article, “Why Christians Are Slow to Fast,” that appeared in Pentecostal Evangel on April 8, 2012.

*Note: A popular Christian practice in our culture is to declare a media fast (abstaining from Facebook, computer games, television, etc.). Although these forms of self-denial certainly have benefits, they’re not fasts according to the examples found in Scripture. With every instance of fasting in the Bible, people either went without food or a combination of water and food. Therefore, to fast means to reduce food intake as you spend time seeking the Lord in prayer.

 

January 2016 Ultimate Daniel Fast – FIGHT!

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January 2016 Ultimate Daniel Fast logo

This past year I’ve struggled more with prayer than during any other time in my life. There have been days I haven’t wanted to pray. And I didn’t. There have also been times when I couldn’t pray because the hurt was so deep.

My heart has been heavy for family members who continue to reject the Lord. Friends whose marriages are falling apart. People who are facing life-threatening illnesses and addictions. And, of course, I’ve been broken over my own sin.

So much devastation. So much despair. And I’m weary.

But God has reminded me that I must not let up. Now isn’t the time to get lazy in prayer. Now is the time to FIGHT!

The struggles we face aren’t random or coincidental. Forces of good and evil are in conflict all around us. A powerful and present enemy, Satan, wants to steal, kill, and destroy God’s work in our lives and in the lives of our loved ones. But God doesn’t want us to shrink back in fear. He wants us to engage! But, in this battle, physical weapons like guns, knives, or hand grenades are useless. We must put on spiritual armor and fight through prayer! 

The good news is that we’re not alone. God is fighting FOR us and WITH us. And, the best part is, He won’t be defeated.

“For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory” (Deut. 20:4).

This January you have the opportunity to fight the good fight with thousands of believers around the world. Make plans now to participate in the January 2016 Ultimate Daniel Fast. The three-week online fast will be held January 3-23, 2016, and the theme, of course, is, “FIGHT!”

“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds” (2 Cor. 10:4).

Will you make the commitment to participate in the Daniel Fast this January? Will you fight on your knees in prayer?

(Online registration has closed for this event.)

God has great plans for you in 2016. Seek His face through prayer and fasting, and praise Him now for the victories to come!

{Stay informed about upcoming events, new Daniel Fast recipes, and my latest blog posts by subscribing to my monthly newsletter.}

Say “Yes” to the Daniel Fast!

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Say "Yes" to the Daniel Fast
This past Sunday morning was like déjà vu. You know, when you feel as if you’ve been in the same situation before. The thing is, I have. Nearly six years ago.

In August 2009, I sat in the same church under the same pastor, hearing the same challenge to seek the Lord through the Daniel Fast. I eagerly accepted. Even though I’d never done a three-week partial fast, I was excited to see what God would do as I submitted to Him. But I had no idea how that one decision – that one “yes” – would change the course of my life.

I couldn’t have dreamed I would write a bestselling book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast.

That my website would become a worldwide resource and ministry tool.

That God would open many doors for writing and speaking.

That I’d publish a second book, Spiritually Strong.

And, that’s just the beginning.

Two days ago, as my pastor shared his reasons for calling our church to a time of praying and fasting, I heard a familiar voice: Will you trust me? Will you commit to three weeks of fervent prayer? Will you set aside your agenda and seek my will?

Again, I answered, “Yes.”

Less than two weeks from today, our church will begin a corporate Daniel Fast. Already, I’m beginning to pray. Already, I’m asking God to prepare my heart and to move powerfully among our church and community. Already, I’m believing this Daniel Fast will be miraculous in ways I can’t even imagine.

God is also calling you. Can you hear His voice? Listen closely because He is speaking.

Will you accept His invitation? Will you step out into the unknown and pursue a deeper relationship with God? Will you commit to a three-week Daniel Fast?

The Lord wants to show His love to you and demonstrate His power in your life. Don’t let fear or disobedience rob you of the blessings God wants to give you.

Just trust Him. Just say, “Yes.”

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