Here are some suggestions for different types of fasts for you to consider.
- Fast from foods, only drink liquids.
- Juice fast
- Daniel Fast – only eat fruit, vegetables and whole grains
- Fast from one meal a day or from a food group you like.
- Fast after a certain time in the evening, like 5PM, and spend extended time with God each evening.
- Fast from television, friends, movies. If you choose any of these, then make sure that this is time you are giving to God in prayer.
- Use these 40 days to free yourself from unwholesome things. Use the time with God that you would have spent engaged in that activity. It’s a good idea for you to find a person to keep you accountable to your commitment.
- Some of you need to make a commitment to spend more time with God each day, an hour or more is a great target. Fast from something in your life and fill it with God-time.
Here are some practical guidelines:
- Keep your focus on the Lord, trusting Him in the situation and need (Hebrews 11:6)
- Stay in an attitude of prayer throughout the day. Set aside segments of time for specific prayer. Pray often.
- Read Scripture often during your time of prayer and fasting. Praying is as much listening as talking. Record any insights you gain.
- Drink plenty of juices and/or water as you fast.
- For those on medication, or who have been ill, be cautious and get an OK from your doctor.
- Some are not able to fast because of a physical condition; they must have regular meals. The Lord may lead you to “fast” from certain food, etc. Remember, the important thing is the heart attitude, not the calorie count.
- Sometimes, there may be a little dizziness, headache, or nausea from not eating. Do not be alarmed. Remember to drink extra fluids.
When it is all said and done, may we have the testimony of Daniel, “So
I gave my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and supplications, with fasting”
Daniel 9:30
I would like each of you to pray about your involvement.
Please post a comment here that lets us know if you are participating in the fast in some way. You may tell us simply that you are participating or you may choose to say specifically how you are participating.
Some links on fasting
http://www.billbright.com/howtofast/index.html
http://ww2.daystar.com/Daystar/Prayer/Daniel+Fast_landing.htm
the Daniel fast
http://www.policycounsel.org/18856/35201.html?*session*id*key*=*session*id*val*
interesting speech given by bill bright.
