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Simply stated, biblical fasting is refraining from food for a spiritual purpose - to see more of God's presence, favor and blessing on our lives.
Biblical fasting takes intentionality, discipline and strength as we demonstrate humility toward our full dependance on God.
Fasting humbles our soul
Fasting brings favor and blessing
Fasting helps us discern God's will
Fasting gives us a greater awareness of God's presence
Fasting empowers us to break strongholds in our lives.
Fasting can bring healing
Fasting prepares us for new seasons of life
GRATITUDE
"Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!" Psalms 100.4
REMEMBER
"I remember the days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done." Psalms 143.5
REQUEST
"…in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4.6b
EXPECTATION
…your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Matthew 6.10
Start with a clear goal. Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, restoration of marriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Pray daily and read the Bible.
PREPARING SPIRITUALLY
Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4). Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2)..
DECIDING WHAT TO FAST
The type of fasting you choose is up to you. You could go on a full fast in which you only drink liquids, or you may desire to fast like Daniel, who abstained from sweets and meats, and the only liquid he drank was water. Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study.
WHAT TO EXPECT
When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s face.
HOW TO END
Don’t overeat when the time comes to end your fast. Begin eating solid food gradually; eat small portions or snacks.
Full Fast (liquids only)
One meal or two meals a day
Sunrise to sunset
Daniel Fast (no meat, no sweets and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables.) *See resources below.
WHAT TO EAT FRUITS
Fresh, frozen, dried, cooked or juiced. Try to avoid added sugar or preservatives.
COMMON CHOICES: apples, apricots, avocados, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries, grapefruit, grapes, honeydew melon, kiwi, lemons, limes, mangoes, nectarines, oranges, papayas, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums, prunes, raisins, raspberries, strawberries, tangerines, watermelon
VEGETABLES Fresh, frozen, dried, cooked or juiced. Try to avoid added sugar or preservatives. COMMON CHOICES: artichokes, asparagus, beets, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, cilantro, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, greens, green beans, garlic, ginger root, mushrooms, okra, onions, parsley, peppers, potatoes, radishes, spinach, sprouts, squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, zucchini
WHOLE GRAINS
Many people also include whole wheat pasta, whole wheat tortillas, rice cakes and popcorn.
COMMON CHOICES: barley, brown rice, grits, millet, quinoa, oats
NUTS & SEEDS Many people also eat nut butters including peanut butter and almond butter. Try to avoid choices with added sugar, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives.
COMMON CHOICES: unsalted almonds, cashews, chia, flax, pine, pumpkin, sesame, sunflower, peanuts, pecans, pistachios, walnuts
LEGUMES & BEANS If you use canned beans, look for organic and/or low-sodium
COMMON CHOICES:
black beans, black-eyed peas, kidney beans, lentils, pinto beans, split peas, white beans
BEVERAGES Water & fresh pressed fruit or vegetable juice
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