devotions for the daniel fast

God is Proud of You

September 10, 2015 By Kristen Feola

I couldn’t believe what I’d just heard.

I was having lunch with my friends who are missionaries in El Salvador. For about an hour, we shared what the Lord is doing in our lives. Mostly, I just sat and listened, gleaning from their godly wisdom. I soaked in their passion for ministering to hurting people, secretly hoping it would rub off on me. Then, as we said good-bye, my eyebrows raised when I heard, “We’re proud of you.”

What?! I thought. They’re proud of ME? No, no! It’s the other way around!

What I wanted to say was, “It’s your commitment to the poor that touches my heart deeply! It’s your tenacity to share the gospel in one of the most dangerous countries in the world that challenges me! It’s your faithfulness to share the love of Christ that reminds me to reach out to others! I’m so proud of YOU!”

But I didn’t. I was too shocked to speak. As I drove home, I wondered, Were they praising my achievement of being a bestselling author of two books? Patting me on the back for having a successful online Daniel Fast ministry? Applauding my abilities as a speaker?

No, I don’t think so. I doubt that their affirmation was prompted by any accomplishment or accolade. Instead, they wanted to communicate, “We’re proud of who you are. We see the Lord at work in your life, and we thank Him for what He’s doing.”

I thought about those four words several times throughout the day. Such an unexpected gift from my dear friends. Such a priceless treasure I will hold in my heart always. Then I realized that their declaration was God’s message to me as well.

The Lord is proud of me simply because I’m His child. I belong to Him, and He thinks I’m pretty special. My heavenly Father loves me when I’m generous and kind. He loves me when I’m selfish and mean. God doesn’t focus on all the bad stuff when He looks at my life. That sin has been covered by the cross! What He does see is His beloved Son, Jesus, and He is well pleased.

If you’ve been born again – if you’ve accepted God’s gift of salvation – the Lord sees you the same way! Your Father wants you to know that He’s proud of who you are! You’re precious and valuable, not because of anything you’ve done, but because you’re His.

The message the Lord spoke to my heart is also meant for you:

“You are precious and honored in my sight, and…I love you” (Is. 43:4).

Receive those words as God’s gift to you today!

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Say “Yes” to the Daniel Fast!

August 4, 2015 By Kristen Feola

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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While She Still Breathes

May 1, 2015 By Kristen Feola

I sit next to my friend, Georgia, while she sleeps in her bed. Her body is wracked with infection. Her organs are shutting down. She hasn’t been able to eat or drink in more than a week. While Georgia inhales and exhales deeply, I watch. I listen.

In and out, in and out. Every two seconds. Like clockwork.

I think about all the millions of breaths Georgia has taken over the past 80 years. And how God has provided every single one. How he was present with her very first. How He’ll be there during her very last.

The oxygen tank hums. Georgia still breathes.

In and out, in and out.

My eyes drift from my friend to her nightstand. The table is covered with medical supplies: oral swabs, wipes, mouthwash, and a bottle of hand lotion. The lotion catches my eye because of its name – “Cherish the Moment.” I pray aloud. “That’s what I’m trying to do, Lord.”

I look at this woman – this sweet lady that God brought into my life, and I cry. Tears fall because she’s dying. But, more than that, because I don’t know what’s next for her. I’m not sure where Georgia will be when she stops breathing.

Since God brought Georgia into my life in 2010, I’ve talked to her repeatedly about spiritual matters. Although she has always been polite and considerate, she has never showed interest in the things of God. When I first met Georgia, I asked if she believed Jesus died for her sins. She replied, “I’ve never sinned.” I didn’t know if she really meant it or if it was her dementia doing the talking.

You see, Georgia has battled mental illness for decades. From what I can tell, she suffered from some traumatic event in her early 40s and has never been the same since. Medical records list “schizophrenia” as a result. Although I’ve been able to piece together stories from her life, there are many gaps. There are missing pieces.

And the main one is: Has Georgia ever made the decision to follow Christ?

I don’t know.

Georgia doesn’t seem to know.

But God does.

The Lord – the Omnipotent, Omnipresent, Omniscient One – knows every detail of Georgia’s life. He alone knows the condition of her heart. Of anyone’s heart, for that matter.

Last week when Georgia was much more alert and responsive, I told her repeatedly, “God loves you so much. He’s always loved you. Do you believe that?” But, today, she sleeps. I say it anyway.

God brought me this beautiful gift of Georgia, but sometimes I feel I’ve failed Him. Failed her. I want more than anything for her to become a Christian. To be set free from the fear that has kept her bound for many, many years.

But I know it’s not my job to rescue Georgia. It never was. No, my only responsibility is to love her. To laugh with her. To care for her. To sit by her bedside while her sick body slowly deteriorates. To hold her weak, frail hand while she sleeps.

While she still breathes in. While she still breathes out.

Do You Trust God?

April 17, 2015 By Kristen Feola

It’s easy to say the words, “I’m trusting in the Lord.” But, what exactly does that mean?

Trusting God involves remaining in His Word. Letting go of anxiety. Choosing to rest in His presence. Refusing to be held captive by fear.

In human relationships, we often extend trust to someone only after it has been earned. But that’s not necessary with God. We don’t need to put him on a trial basis or “test” His actions. The Lord is forever faithful and completely reliable. And, just for the record, not one of His good promises has ever failed.

If you’re facing a difficult situation that causes you to be afraid, you can do one of two things: 1) Try to figure everything out on your own (believe me, it doesn’t work), or 2) Cast all your cares on the One who loves you most.

May I suggest the second option? That’s what I’m trying to do right now.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve faced a few situations that have challenged my faith in big ways. I’ve been afraid. Confused. Sad. Angry. Disappointed. Frustrated. Anxious. But in the midst of the confusion and chaos, one word keeps coming to my mind.

Trust.

Even though I’m tempted to rehearse all the “what if” scenarios in my mind, the Lord is calling me to look to Him instead. So I’m relying on the Holy Spirit to guide me. Step by step, day by day. I’m also clinging to the familiar truth of Proverbs 3:5-6, which says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Will you join me? Can we agree to allow God’s peace to cover us, even in the midst of uncertainty?

Together, let’s resolve to walk the path of faith. Let’s trust in the Lord with full confidence that His plans are for our good. We don’t need to worry. We just need to trust Him.

Get Spiritually Strong in 2015!

February 16, 2015 By Kristen Feola

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

Ocean Depths

February 2, 2015 By Kristen Feola

“May you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is” (Ephesians 3:18 NLT).

I’m fascinated by the ocean. When I look out upon its mighty waters, I’m in awe of God’s marvelous creation. But if I stay on the sand collecting sea shells and never venture out into the waves, I miss out. For just below the ocean’s surface is an amazing display of colors and creatures that’s breathtaking. The first time I went snorkeling, I couldn’t believe my eyes! As I swam among various kinds of fish and sea life, I realized there’s much more beauty to the ocean than what I can be seen from the shore.

That’s how the Christian life is. If we’re content to go to church once a week and read the Bible sporadically, we rob ourselves of the abundant life God wants us to experience. But when we choose to dive into spiritual waters through disciplines such as fasting, we discover a whole new level of joy and power. Our lives are enriched and strengthened in ways they wouldn’t be otherwise. We’re also more sensitive to what God is doing around us.

Have you set aside time to fast and pray this year? If not, don’t let fear of the unknown keep you stuck in the sand. Trust the Lord to give you the courage to step out into the water. When you do, you’ll have a greater understanding of how long, how high, and how deep God’s love is for you!

Come Right In

February 18, 2014 By Kristen Feola

“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

February 4, 2014 By Kristen Feola

“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!

Georgia on My Mind

December 15, 2013 By Kristen Feola

“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.

Fear

October 1, 2013 By Kristen Feola

“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.

Once 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.

You are God’s Masterpiece

July 22, 2013 By Kristen Feola

“I am fearfully and wonderfully made!” – Psalm 139:14

Imagine you’re an art fanatic, and you receive an invitation to the private unveiling of a new work by a world-renowned painter. You have no idea how you made the guest list for such an exclusive affair. However, the envelope clearly shows your name embossed in silver ink. You can’t believe you’ve been given such an opportunity.

Finally, after weeks of anticipation, the big night arrives. As you enter the museum, you’re so excited you can hardly breathe.

In the center of the atrium floor, you spot a massive canvas draped with a thin red sheet. Eager fans surround it. The artist walks up to the podium, and a hush falls across the room. He steps up to the microphone. “Every detail you see in this painting has purpose,” he says. “I carefully selected each color and made sure every brush stroke was perfect.” Slowly, the artist lifts the sheet to reveal his work.

The crowd gasps. Then everyone bursts into thunderous applause. “Amazing!” someone says. “Extraordinary!” another person shouts. “One of a kind!” a man proclaims.

You stand there in shock and disbelief. Do they see what I see? you wonder. The painting is nothing like you expected. In fact, you think it’s horrendous.

Everyone else seems to be elated. Once the clapping dies down and people begin mingling, you approach the artist. He smiles, waiting for your words of appreciation. Looking straight into his eyes, you say, “This is the ugliest painting I’ve ever seen! The colors are awful. I definitely wouldn’t have done it the way you did. I mean, what’s with the texture? It looks like the work of an amateur! I can’t believe I waited two months to see this piece of junk.”

Never, ever would you even think of doing such a thing. Not in a million years would you criticize the creativity of an accomplished artist. Yet, we act this way all the time when it comes to God.

When you and I consider God’s handiwork, we should be in awe, much like the writer of Psalm 139: “You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well (verses 13-14).” But, many times we’re critical, unhappy, and downright angry about the way God made us.

How do you feel about your body? Do you focus on what you consider to be “flaws,” or do you find reasons to rejoice in God’s miraculous creation? Every time you think negatively about your appearance or make a degrading remark about one of your features, you’re basically saying, “God, you messed up. You didn’t know what you were doing.” How offensive that must be to the Lord!

You are a priceless work of art. There’s no one else in the world like you. Zephaniah 3:17 says God takes great delight in you. He fashioned your nose, your eyes, your hair, and your body just as he wanted them to be. Don’t ever wish you had been created differently. You’re perfect just the way you are.

Take Your Position

July 1, 2013 By Kristen Feola

“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!