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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
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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

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!

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
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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

 

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!
3.66 from 46 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.  

Coconut Bliss Smoothie

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Coconut Bliss Smoothie

Coconut Bliss Smoothie

This coconut treat will make you think you're in a tropical paradise. One sip, and you'll be in a hammock on the beach, feeling the ocean breeze caress your face as you bask in the warm sunshine. No deadlines. No laundry. No meetings. No responsibilities at all. Just pure relaxation and rest. Sounds nice, right? Wait until you taste it for yourself!
4.72 from 7 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Breakfast, Drinks, Snack

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen banana (about 1 medium banana)
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh mango chunks
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen sliced strawberries

Instructions
 

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

Video

Notes

  • To freeze bananas, remove peels before placing in freezer. Put in a plastic zip-top bag until completely frozen. 
  • Add Daniel Fast friendly protein powder.
  • Make it green! Add 1 cup chopped kale or spinach leaves.

Parsnip Chips

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Parsnip Chips

Parsnip Chips

These veggie chips are so good that I have to hold myself back from eating half the recipe in one sitting (not exaggerating). The unique flavor of the parsnips goes well with the chili powder and makes a great snack.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe
Course Snack
Servings 8
Calories 105 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds parsnips, peeled, cut into ¼-inch medallions (about 6 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Position oven rack on the lowest rung. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
  • Place parsnips in a large bowl. Add olive oil and stir to coat. Sprinkle chili powder and salt over parsnips, and stir well.
  • Cover an 11 x 17-inch baking sheet with parchment paper (or use a silicone mat). Spread parsnip chips out in one layer. Bake 15 minutes, and flip. Return to oven and bake another 15 minutes (20-25 minutes for extra-crispy chips).
  • Yield: 8 servings (serving size: 1/2 cup)

Nutrition

Calories: 105kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 5gFat: 4gFiber: 5gSugar: 5g

 

Mashed Rutabaga

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Mashed Rutabaga

Mashed Rutabaga

The rutabaga, sometimes called a yellow turnip, is not the most attractive vegetable on the stand. You might even call it ugly. However, you should give it a chance, especially considering how nutritious it is.Rutabagas are high in vitamin C and fiber. They're also a good source of potassium and calcium. Their unique flavor is sure to win you over, especially in when you combine rutabagas with the sweetness of coconut milk, as in this featured recipe.
No ratings yet
Print Recipe
Course Side Dish
Servings 6
Calories 126 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large rutabagas, about 2 pounds, peeled, cubed (about 6 cups)
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Place rutabaga in a large saucepan with about 8 cups water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and cover. Simmer 30-40 minutes, or until softened. Drain in a colander.
  • Add coconut milk, and mash with a potato masher until desired consistency. Stir in salt, and serve.
  • Yield: 6 servings (serving size: about ½ cup)

Notes

Nutrition

Calories: 126kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 3gFat: 6gFiber: 3gSugar: 11gCalcium: 8mg

Take Your Position

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faith

“You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you.” – 2 Chronicles 20:17a

No matter how hard I tried this past week, I couldn’t get in the groove with my writing. My thoughts were fragmented. I had trouble expressing ideas. By Saturday I was beyond frustrated. Doubts and discouragement filled my mind. Maybe a second book wasn’t such a great idea after all.

Then I read the story of Jehoshaphat. It was just what I needed to get back on track.

When King Jehoshaphat received word that his enemies were going to attack, his first response was to turn to God. He proclaimed a fast for all of Judah, urging them to seek the Lord for help. As the people gathered together at the temple, Jehoshaphat prayed, “O LORD, God of our fathers, are you not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you (2 Chronicles 20:6).” Jehoshaphat continued by recounting God’s faithfulness to them. Finally, he confessed, “We have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you (20:12).”

At this point the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel, one of the men standing in the crowd. He proclaimed: “This is what the Lord says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow march down against them….You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you (20:15-17).’”

The next morning the people marched in the direction of their enemies. Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the Lord and praise him along the way. When the men of Judah came to the place where their enemies were, they saw only dead bodies lying on the ground. The battle had already been won. They didn’t have to fight at all.

Where does this story meet you? What battle are you facing? What worries plague your mind? Whatever you’re up against, you don’t have to “do” anything except trust the Lord.

Today, take your position of faith. Remember, God is fighting for you, and he will deliver you. Praise the Lord for the victory that is to come!

Do the Work

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frustrated lady at computer

“Be strong and courageous, and do the work.” – 1 Chronicles 28:20a, NLT

I sat in front of my computer monitor. Three months, I thought. I have only three months to finish this book. I took a deep breath and let it out slowly. My neck was tight, and my shoulders were sagging under the heavy load. I opened up the Word for encouragement and turned to my Bible reading passage for the day – 1 Chronicles 28.

King David summoned all the officials of Israel to assemble at Jerusalem for an important announcement:

“Listen to me, my fellow Israelites, my people. I had it in my heart to build a house as a place of rest for the ark of the covenant of the Lord, for the footstool of our God, and I made plans to build it. But God said to me, ‘You are not to build a house for my Name, because you are a warrior and have shed blood. Solomon your son is the one who will build my house and my courts, for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father (28:2-3, 6, NLT).” Then, in the presence of all the people, David presented Solomon with detailed instructions on the project. “Every part of this plan,” David told Solomon, “was given to me in writing from the hand of the Lord (28:19).”

At this point, David turned to Solomon and said: “Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the Lord is finished correctly (28:20, NLT).”

The Lord spoke to my heart loudly and clearly through that last verse. I sensed him saying, “Kristen, be strong and courageous. I am with you. I have chosen you to write this book, just as I chose David to be king and Solomon to build the Temple. You can trust me to provide everything you need. I will see to it that the book is written just as I want it to be.”

Are you feeling overwhelmed by what God has called you to do? Don’t let fear keep you from moving forward. Remember, God is with you. Put your trust in him, and remind yourself daily, if necessary: “What is impossible with man is possible with God (Luke 18:27).”

Be strong in the Lord, and do the work. God will take care of the rest.

Bring Your Family to Jesus

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family standing on beach

“Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus.” – John 1:40-42

As followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, we have been called to share the good news of salvation with the people around us. Yet, often our greatest challenge is not in witnessing to strangers, but to those we know the best – members of our own family. Andrew’s story can encourage us. In John 1, we see that the first thing Andrew did when he heard about Jesus was to tell his brother, Simon. Verse 42 reveals what Andrew did next: “And he brought him to Jesus.”

When Andrew introduced his brother to the Savior of the world, Simon’s life was never the same. That day, Simon became Cephas (or Peter), which is translated as “rock.” Peter ended up being one of the most passionate and influential of Jesus’ followers, whose faith played a big part in laying the foundation for Christianity. Much of the book of Acts records the display of God’s power through Peter’s ministry.

I want to be like Andrew and bring my family to Jesus. Although many are believers, there are some who haven’t yet accepted God’s gift of salvation. I continue to pray their eyes will be opened to the truth. I long to see their lives radically, permanently changed – just like Peter’s was!

Do you have family members still living in darkness? If so, don’t stop interceding for them! The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 9:4, “Anyone who is among the living has hope.” Your loved ones are not without hope for salvation if they are still breathing. Therefore, trust God to do the work He needs to do in their hearts and to do it in His timing. Do your part, and pray for opportunities to bring your family to Jesus this year!