Ultimate Daniel Fast

You are here: Home / Archives for the ultimate guide to the daniel fast

the ultimate guide to the daniel fast

January 2018 Daniel Fast Begins Soon

By

January 2018 Daniel Fast
It’s hard to believe that soon we’ll be saying good-bye to 2017 and hello to 2018. Even though we’re still several weeks away from January, it’s a good idea to begin thinking about how to start the New Year off right. I believe the best way to kick off 2018 is through the January 2018 Online Daniel Fast.

I want to invite you to participate in the January 2018 Daniel Fast, which will be held Sunday, January 7th, through Saturday, January 27th. When you join the fast through my website, ultimatedanielfast.com, you commit to seeking the Lord through focused prayer for 21 days. You also deny yourself certain foods as an act of worship to the Lord. 

Make plans now to join me and thousands of people around the world as we seek the Lord together. Registration for the January 2018 Daniel Fast begins Thursday, Dec. 7th, here on my Ultimate Daniel Fast website.

This January will be my seventh year to lead the online Daniel Fast. I’ve been working diligently since September to prepare, and I can’t wait to share the details with you in a few weeks! The Lord has been helping me get everything ready for our start date, which is only 52 days from today. (Yikes!)

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel FastThe January 2018 Daniel Fast is going to be a powerful, life-changing experience. You don’t want to miss out on this unique opportunity to hear from the Lord and see him work in miraculous ways. For help in preparing for the January 2018 Daniel Fast, you can benefit from the resources in my book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast, which is available online or in bookstores.

Mark your calendar for two important dates that are coming up quickly: December 7th to sign up for the fast, and January 7th to start!

I’m looking forward to all the wonderful things God is going to do as we fast and pray!

Kristen Feola

 


Pack for the January 2018 Daniel Fast

By


When my husband and I go rock climbing, we spend at least an hour the day before we leave getting everything ready. Justin takes care of the equipment – the rope, harnesses, carabiners, quick draws, chalk bags, and shoes. My job is pack the food and make sure we have plenty of water. 

If we plan our trip well, we’ll most likely have a successful rock climbing adventure. But if we don’t, our trip to the mountains is bound to be a huge disaster.

The same is true when it comes to the Daniel Fast. 

In a few short months, I’ll be leading the January 2018 Online Daniel Fast. Even though you might be tempted to wait to get ready, you should really beginning planning your journey now. It’s important that you get the materials you need for a successful fasting experience. 

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel FastThe first resource I recommend for you is The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast. If you don’t already have a copy, you can order it through my website. If you do have the book, make sure you have it on hand. 

Second, if you’re on social media, follow my new Instagram account. I’ll be posting information prior to and throughout the fast. You don’t want to miss any updates!

Finally, read about King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles, especially chapters 17 and 20. Our theme for the January 2018 Daniel Fast will be based upon those verses. I believe the Lord will prepare your heart for the fast in a special way as you meditate on the truths in these passages.

I’m already praying about the upcoming January 2018 Online Daniel Fast, asking the Lord to go before us. Pray with me. Let’s believe that this year’s Daniel Fast experience is going to be the best one yet!

Breakfast Recipes for the Daniel Fast

By

Nutty Fruit Cereal

When I started my Ultimate Daniel Fast blog in August 2009, I began posting a variety of Daniel Fast friendly recipes–main dishes, snacks, vegetables, soups, and salads. But it wasn’t long before I figured out that the category most people needed help with on the fast is breakfast.

In the United States, a sugar-laden breakfast is often the norm. Just walk down the cereal aisle of any large grocery store and count the number of choices on the shelves, and you’ll see what I mean. We also like donuts, pancakes, muffins, toast, and bagels for our first meal of the day–all of which have little nutritional value. Sometimes we’ll pair these items with a protein, such as bacon, eggs, or ham. But, on the Daniel Fast, none of these foods is allowed.

So what can you eat for breakfast on the Daniel Fast?

You actually have a plethora of options. Following are a few of my favorite Daniel Fast breakfast recipes:

Overnight Oats
Apple-Cinnamon Hot Cereal
Baked Oatmeal
Fruit Pizza
Nutty Fruit Cereal
Peachy Keen Smoothie (go to “Daniel Fast Smoothies Recipes” for more ideas)

Be sure to visit my “Daniel Fast Breakfast Recipes” page for more ideas.

Remember, anything goes! As long as your food choices fall within the guidelines of the Daniel Fast Food List, you can eat whatever you like. For example, recipes that are listed under the following categories can also be breakfast dishes. 

Daniel Fast Snacks and Appetizers
Daniel Fast Salads
Daniel Fast Soups
Daniel Fast Vegetables
Daniel Fast Main Dishes

If you’ve done the Daniel Fast, what are some of your favorite breakfast recipes?

Side Effects on the Daniel Fast

By

Man reading Bible

A question I frequently receive from readers is, “Will I experience side effects on the Daniel Fast?”

Yes, you probably will. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Not all side effects are negative in nature. For example, during the January 2017 Online Daniel Fast, one woman (a diabetic), emailed to share how the fast decreased her blood sugar levels. On day 9 of her fast, her blood sugar was 114 (it’s normally 130-140). She was excited and encouraged by how the Daniel Fast was impacting her health in a positive way.

Many Daniel Fast participants have reported having significantly lower cholesterol numbers after 21 days. Other have testified to having more energy and being able to sleep more soundly at night while on the fast. Several men and women have lost weight by making healthier food choices and following the Daniel Fast Food List.

Sometimes, though, people do experience unpleasant symptoms on the Daniel Fast, such as body aches, fatigue, nausea, headaches, and digestive distress. Such side effects usually occur within the first few days of the fast as the body adjusts to a different way of eating. My advice to people who are struggling is, “Just hang on! You should feel better in a few days.” And, in most cases, they do.

One Daniel Fast participant found that easing her way into the fast has helped prevent negative physical side effects. She writes, “The first time I did the Daniel Fast, years ago, I had so much stomach distress that I was in great pain. The past three years I’ve adjusted the way I do the fast, and it has really helped. Week 1, I eat one meal a day Daniel Fast. Week 2, I have two meals per day Daniel Fast, and by Week 3, I’m doing a complete Daniel Fast. So if someone really wants to try the fast but finds it difficult, this modification might be an option they’ve not thought about doing.”

Following are a few steps you can take to avoid uncomfortable side effects on the Daniel Fast:

  • Drink plenty of water –The Daniel Fast includes many high-fiber foods, so it’s important to consume plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Water is also necessary to flush out any harmful toxins that have built up in your system over time. Try to drink a minimum of 6-8 glasses of water each day (you may need more, depending on your weight and activity level). If you’re not used to drinking that much water, take it slowly. You may have to work up to that amount.
  • Exercise – God created your body to be mobile, and it will work much more efficiently when you exercise on a regular basis. Plus, going on a walk, run, or bike ride will do wonders for you mentally.
  • Consider taking digestive enzymes – A digestive enzyme enables your body to break down food into smaller particles, making the food easier to absorb and assimilate. For example, if beans tend to make you gassy, you can take a digestive enzyme before eating them to reduce and sometimes prevent digestive distress. Sometimes the best route is a broad-spectrum supplement, such as Digest Gold by Enzymedica, that covers a wide variety of foods, such as fruit, vegetables, etc. Personally, I have found that Digest Gold helps me tremendously when I’m on the Daniel Fast.

But any physical challenges you may encounter on the Daniel Fast pale in comparison to the wonderful spiritual benefits you receive. You can expect to:

  • Hear God’s voice more clearly– You’re probably not going to hear the Lord speak audibly to you on a fast, although that would definitely be an amazing side effect! God typically chooses to communicate with us in a variety of other ways – through the Bible, other believers, prayer, and our circumstances. As you spend focused time in prayer and in God’s Word on the Daniel Fast, you’ll have greater understanding of truth as you’re led by the Holy Spirit.
  • Become more spiritually sensitive – Fasting changes your perspective and allows you to “see” things differently and more clearly. I believe it’s partly due to the fact that you’re hungry, which causes you to realize how dependent you are on the Lord for strength. When I’m on a fast, I’m usually more in tune with the struggles of people around me, which causes me to pray more fervently for them. 
  • Participate in the suffering of Christ – Jesus fasted from all food for 40 days and nights in the wilderness in preparation for his public ministry (Matt. 4:1-11). When you and I commit to a fast, even a partial fast, we’re choosing to undergo one of the spiritual disciplines Jesus practiced while on Earth. By following Christ’s example, we are becoming more like Him, which leads to great joy and blessing. “Instead, be very glad–for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world” (1 Peter 4:13 NLT). 
  • Enjoy God’s favor – Even though the Bible doesn’t contain a direct command to fast, God’s Word indicates that fasting should be a regular discipline in the believer’s life. The Lord is pleased when His children seek Him wholeheartedly, and He promises to reward our efforts when we do.
  • Know God in a deeper way – The main goal of a three-week Daniel Fast is to grow closer to the Lord. As you devote yourself to studying the Bible and spending time in prayer, you’ll learn more about the Lord and His ways.

The Daniel Fast is a unique, life-changing experience. If you’ve never participated in the three-week journey, you can see why it’s such a powerful spiritual discipline. Focus on all the benefits of drawing closer to the Lord, and trust Him to help you with any unexpected trials along the way. Yes, doing the Daniel Fast is a sacrifice, but it’s one that you’ll never regret. 

For more information on the Daniel Fast and instructions on how to complete the fast successfully, be sure to get my book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast. Also, be sure to check out my FAQs page if you have specific questions about the Daniel Fast. Contact me with any question that’s not covered.

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast

Resources for Lent 2017

By

Lent 2017
Lent is the season of preparation in the weeks leading up to Easter when believers reflect on Jesus Christ—his life, death, burial, and resurrection. Such preparation often includes days of fasting. For more information on Lent, read my blog post, “The Daniel Fast and Lent 2017.”

You can choose from a variety of ways to participate in Lent 2017. There is no hard and fast rule as to what your fast should look like. For example, some people will do a Daniel Fast for the entire Lenten season (March 1 to April 15). Others will fast one day a week from now until Easter. Maybe you want to do a combination of the two types of fasts. That’s fine. But whatever you decide, you want your prayer time to be as powerful and effective as possible.

I want to help you. Following are a few resources that will keep you on track:

  1. The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast – If you’ll be doing a Daniel Fast anytime during Lent, you need to get a copy of my book. I truly believe the information I provide will help you stay focused and finish strong. The book provides 100+ recipes, 21 daily devotions, meal plans, grocery shopping lists, and more. You can purchase The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast in most bookstores and online.
  2. Lent 2017 Prayer Guide – Take advantage of this FREE guide! Simply download it and print it. I recommend putting the list in a highly visible place, such as on your mirror, refrigerator, or in your Bible or journal. 
  3. Lent 2017 Daily Prayer Points – If you’d like daily accountability during Lent, you can subscribe to my Lent 2017 Prayer Points mailing list. Each day I will send you the prayer point from the Lent 2017 Prayer Guide. The email will also include a Scripture, prayer, and sometimes ministry action steps.

As we humble ourselves, pray, and seek the Lord during Lent, we will see God pour out His favor in miraculous ways! 

The Daniel Fast and Lent 2017

By

Lent 2017

As an author, I’m a big fan of words. I enjoy looking up definitions to understand terms in a deeper way. So when I began writing this blog post about Lent 2017, of course, I had to do research on “lent.”

The word “lent” comes from the Old English term “lencten,” which means “spring.” On the surface, the meaning seems nice and sweet. After all, Spring is a wonderful season of the year. The weather turns warmer. Flowers begin to bloom. Nature comes alive. What’s not to like?

But you can’t experience the beauty of Spring without the harshness of Winter. Frigid temperatures. Brown, barren landscapes. Bitterly cold winds that cut to the bone. All components of Winter. All necessary to usher in Spring.

(You may think I’m chasing a rabbit trail here, but stick with me. I promise it will all tie together.)

Let’s go back to Lent. You may be wondering, What is Lent? It’s OK if you have no idea. I didn’t really either until a few years ago. 

Lent is the season of preparation in the weeks leading up to Easter when believers reflect on Jesus Christ—his life, death, burial, and resurrection. Such preparation often includes days of fasting from certain foods, television, and/or social media. During this time, many Christians also choose to participate in a Daniel Fast.

These types of sacrifices are certainly beneficial. But when I consider the definition of Lent, I have to conclude that its practice should involve more than mere meditation on what Christ did for us. 

Of course, it’s good to remember how Jesus paid the penalty for our sin. Our Lord willingly subjected Himself to the cruelest, most unforgiving Winter of all so we might experience life in Him. His death on the cross may a way for us to experience a wonderful, eternal Spring that lasts forever!

The purpose of Lent is designed to make believers ready for Easter Sunday, a day that’s all about celebrating this new life we’ve been given in Christ. But how can we celebrate to the fullest when men and women around us are still dying in their sin? How can we rejoice in our Spring when people we love are stuck in Winter?

The truth is, we can’t.

If you’re like me, you don’t think about eternity enough. You don’t dwell on the fact that your brother or sister or spouse or child is headed to Hell. But you need to think about it. And so do I.

Hell is real place. It’s not a figment of anyone’s imagination. It’s also not a joke or a party. Heaven is also a real place. People who have accepted God’s gift of salvation will be in God’s presence forever when they die. Those who haven’t, won’t. They will spend eternity separated from God and anything good. Instead of unending joy, they’ll endure utter darkness and misery, being tormented in ways we can’t even comprehend.

I see Lent, then, as a perfect opportunity to pray others into the kingdom of God. Eternity is at stake here. The need is urgent. People are desperate to know the hope we have in Christ. Lent is also a great time to intercede for other believers, who need wisdom, strength, and perseverance as they follow the Lord.

Will you fast and pray during the Lenten season, which is Wednesday, March 1, to Saturday, April 15? If so, indicate your commitment in the comments section below.

Ways you can participate:

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel FastThe most important thing is that you pray. “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16B NLT). Your prayers make a difference and will change the history of people you know!

My prayer is for the Lord to pour out His power as we seek Him during Lent. May we see thousands of people turn to Him for salvation! May we also be revived in the process!

If you plan to do the Daniel Fast during Lent, be sure to take advantage of the helpful resources in my book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast. It provides everything you need, including 21 daily devotions, 100+ recipes, three weeks of meal plans, grocery shopping lists, fasting tips, and more!

January 2017 Daniel Fast Recap and Testimonies

By

Revive Us Again - Jan 2017 Online Daniel Fast
Every January for the past six years, I’ve held an online Daniel Fast through my website. And every year, God has moved in mighty ways. This past January was no exception.

Nearly 4,300 believers participated in the January 2017 Online Daniel Fast, which was held January 1-21. Our theme for the fast was, “Revive Us Again.” Men and women from around the world set aside the first three weeks of the year to focus on the Lord. Together, we cried out to God for revival – in our personal lives, our families, our churches, our communities, and our nations. In addition, nearly 300 people committed to take a small group through the fast and signed up to be a team leader.

Everyone who registered for the fast received weekly emails of encouragement and support. The emails provided helpful resources, such as Daniel Fast friendly recipes. I also sent out daily videos for the entire fast with the assistance of my wonderful co-host and husband, Justin (you can view the videos on my YouTube channel). Through the videos, we explored God’s prescription for revival as spelled out 2 Chronicles 7:14:

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”

What a privilege it was to partner with such an army of prayer warriors in seeking the Lord! Following are just a few testimonies of how the Lord worked:

“The fast was an awesome experience for my wife and me.” – Corey

“I want you to know how much I appreciated your videos every day. They were so helpful and certainly kept me encouraged. Also, I ordered your book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast. All the meals I have made have been delicious. Your recipes are fantastic! I will be changing my eating patterns after the fast and use your recipes all year long.” – Debbie

“This was the first time I’ve done a Daniel fast since being a Christian (11 years). I’m so glad I embarked on it. Your website was a tremendous support.” – Mary

 “I’ve attempted this type of prayer and fasting on my own but would always fail. When others are doing it with you, you are strengthened.” – Dorene

 “My husband and I have grown so close through the fast. Seems like we’re on our honeymoon after 36 years!” – Pam

“Thanks for a great 21 days of leading us with encouragement to persevere!” – Roger

 “This was my second Daniel Fast. I relied on your book, The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast, and emails for information and encouragement. I’m so amazed at the power of fasting and prayer together! Thank you so much for all your help.” – Rhonda

“I made it 21 days. When I was weak, the Lord gave me strength to continue. God also intervened in my cousin’s life. He got hit by a car and suffered a broken femur. But the miracle is that he’s alive!” – Brenda

“I’ve always struggled with fasting. I would find that I was tired and not very effective in prayer. I wasn’t sure how I would cope on this fast. But I was amazed how the gift of self-control grew in me as I prepared my children’s meals. I wasn’t even tempted to try!” – Suzanne

“I couldn’t have entered 2017 in a better way. I stand in awe of what God has done in my life and what He is still going to do for all of us who have endured the fast.” – Lauren

If you missed being a part of the January 2017 Online Daniel Fast, be sure to sign up for my Ultimate Daniel Fast monthly newsletter to stay informed about future fasting events. 

 

 

 

Butternut Squash Fries

By

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.
4.15 from 7 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

August 2016 Daniel Fast Testimonies

By

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.

Broiled Brussels Sprouts

By

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.
2.73 from 18 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

By

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.
4.75 from 8 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

By

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