Worship Through Fasting

Worship Through Fasting By Michael & Debra Miner (2009)

Worship Through Fasting Fasting….it is an unfamiliar concept to many, and a seldom used means of intimacy with our Savior. However, in Scripture, we see that fasting was an expected, inseparable part of a Believer’s life. Jesus said, “Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly” (Matthew 6:16-18) (emphasis added). Fasting is a valid spiritual discipline and should become part of a Believer’s lifestyle, similar to prayer, Bible study, Scripture memory, etc. Above all, fasting should be a personal expression of worship to our Lord from a heart devoted to Him. “ ‘And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment” (Mark 12:30).

A Mysterious Discipline? Although the dictionary definition of fasting is “abstaining from food,” we prefer to define fasting as “a temporary sacrifice for the pursuit of the Lord in intensified prayer.” This expands our understanding to include fasting from TV, books, sleep, certain types of recreation, or any form of activity. A person can fast from chocolate or sweets, breads or soda. The varieties are endless. Recognizing that different types of fasts are not limited to refraining from eating, this particular document will focus on issues concerning food, though there may be some principles that overlap with non-food fasts. There are three types of fasts generally observed in the Church. Traditional food fasts are water-only fasts, in which a person would drink only water through the length of the fast. Juice fasts are also commonly accepted, which means a person would be limited to water and natural juices throughout the fast. Another Biblical fast, called the Daniel Fast, is very much like a vegan diet. The length of fasting should be prayerfully considered. However, commonly fasts can range from one meal, 12 hours, 24 hours, 3 days, 7 days, 21 days, to even 40 days. Considering these differences, fasting is very personal and individual in practice. When going beyond ritual, it is a very intimate form of worship and surrender as a person becomes centered in prayer and more frequent, focused Bible study while directing attention more steadfastly on the Lord. Just as Job cried out, we also pray, “I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food” (Job 23:12b). Corporate fasting, an additional type of fast, is a very effective way to unite a group of people in prayer and heart before the Lord for a specific cause. Churches, ministries, and nations may, at times, call a group of people to fast. Corporate fasts can be local, regional, national or even world-wide, such as the American “National Day of Prayer and Fasting” or the “Global Day of Prayer and Fasting.” An example of an Old Testament leader calling the people as a group to fast is Ezra, “Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from Him the right way for us and our little ones and all our possessions. For I was ashamed to request of the king an escort of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy on the road, because we had spoken to the king, saying, ‘The hand of our God is upon all those for good who seek Him, but His power and His wrath are against all those who forsake Him.’ So we fasted and entreated our God for this, and He answered our prayer” (Ezra 8:21-23).

An Acceptable Fast To The Lord In the Old Testament, Isaiah describes the purpose for fasting that the Lord chooses. The opening verses of Isaiah 58 describe a people who delight in the Lord. However, their fasting and prayer were not effective. How can a people who enjoy the Lord daily have such an offense before God? Although they were joyful in the Lord, their relationships with people were suffering and filled with trouble (v. 4). Their sinful lives tainted their offering and worship of God. Righteous, selfless living must match private worship to please a Holy God (vs. 6-7). He desires that we pray for the spiritual deliverance of people who so desperately need the Lord. His promises of light, healing and protection follow the person that chooses to pursue His heart. He answers, “Here I am” (vs. 8-9).

Zechariah 7:1-7 echoes this need of right living before God. The Lord cries out, “Did you really fast for Me—for Me?” (v. 5). Above all, He desires obedience (v. 7) and a humble heart. “For You do not desire sacrifice [or fasting], or else I would give it; You do not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart—These, O God, You will not despise” (Psalm 51:16-17) (brackets added). This is not to say that we shouldn’t fast, but that the Lord is concerned with our heart more than our religious observances. “For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7b). If we consider the two greatest commandments, we see that our focus should first be on Loving God. “And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30a). However, our love must go beyond our own relationship with the Lord to Loving People. “ ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:30b). Operating in only one of these dimensions of love is unbalanced and grieves the heart of God. Therefore, “an acceptable fast to the Lord” includes a heart of passion and worship of Him that reaches out in a heart of compassion and intercession to those who desperately need Him.

Scriptural Scriptural Purposes Throughout the Bible, there are many references to fasting in the lives of individuals and nations for a variety of reasons. Some of these include: • Guidance & Direction (Ezra 8:21, Acts 14:23) • Grieving Due to Sin (usually a corporate response or an individual representing the people) (Ezra 9:5-6, Nehemiah 1:4-11, Nehemiah 9:1-2, Daniel 9:3-5, Joel 2:12-18) • Mourning (Esther 4:1-3, Daniel 6:18-23) • Prayer for Divine Intervention (Esther 4:15-16, Psalm 109:21-31) • Spiritual Deliverance (Matthew 17:21) • Lifestyle Spiritual Discipline (Matthew 9:14, Luke 2:37, Luke 18:12, 2 Corinthians 11:27) • To Receive A Message from the Lord (Exodus 34:28) • Prior to Launching into Ministry (Matthew 4:2, Acts 13:3)

Determine Your Focus Understanding the Biblical background helps to prepare our hearts to develop our own personal journey of fasting. Where do we begin? Thinking through the following three questions will bring focus and clarity in emphasizing the purpose of a fast. These answers will also aid in empowering commitment to follow-through. Also we should be forewarned that the enemy does not want us to succeed and may try to tempt us to end the fast early. Setting goals with the Lord (and possibly another Believer) can provide accountability for completing the fast. 1. What is the purpose of this fast? Why am I fasting? 2. What is the focus Scripture? What exhortation of God am I praying? 3. What are the details of this fast in regards to length and type? Will I drink juice or eat some foods? Will I fast for 24 hours or 3 days?

Getting To The Heart During the period of fasting, extra time for prayer, singing, and/or Bible study should be set aside. Communicating requests as well as adoration to the Lord through prayer is an essential part of pursuing His heart. However, part of communication is listening. We must stop, quiet ourselves, and intentionally listen to what He might be saying. Worship music is another powerful way to enter into the presence of the Lord. Kari Jobe’s song “The More I Seek You” communicates this searching heart: “The more I seek You, the more I find You, the more I find You, the more I love You. I want to sit at Your feet, drink from the cup in Your hand, lay back against You and breathe, feel Your heartbeat.” Pursuing truth must also rely on study and insight of the Word of God in which the Lord has expressed His heart throughout the ages.

The duration of fasting will look different in various situations with respect to lifestyle, responsibilities, and activities. Though some may have the opportunity to pull away during meals for time with the Lord, others have responsibilities in which this is not possible. However, extra time can be built into the daily schedule at some point. It is important to know that fasting is pleasing to the Lord when the overall lifestyle of a person is submitted to Him in love. Jesus condemned the Pharisees’ religious fasting because their lives were characterized by legalism and ritual, not by relationship with the Lord. They lived a life of “do not’s” and “self-imposed religion” (Colossians 2:20-23) while failing to recognize the very Son of God before them. This is why Jesus instructed “so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place . . .” (Matthew 6:18a). Religion parades itself for the viewing of others where the whole of the value lies. However, we are invited to an intimate relationship with the Almighty God in which our purpose is service to Him not the opinions of others. In this way, we are free from expectations of people and can fast “in the secret place.” This secrecy is not an external bondage demanding that no one know when we are fasting. It is a protection of our heart’s motivation from a dependence on approval. Therefore, we can exercise freedom in giving testimony of our experience and praise to the Lord for His work in our lives in order to encourage others to pursue the Lord in a more determined way. At times, a person’s heart may feel distant from Him, questioning intention and desiring to wait “for a right heart.” However, fasting is a means to humble ourselves and provide an environment for our spirit to grow stronger. In that place of humility, the Lord is able to expose sins that inhibit growth and intimacy that will in turn set us free in Him. In experience, a person may feel nothing. The fast may be like a seed in the ground that is presently hidden but will be seen as fruit later. A person may feel a special presence of the Lord during the fast, or immediately after the fast. Regardless of what we feel, according to the Word of God, we can be assured that our sacrifice moves the heart of the Lord. Fasting, like childbirth, is uncomfortable, painful, and requires much work as we struggle for the spiritual life being birthed in that time. It is not pleasant in the moment, but the resulting new life is priceless . . . and promised. “And your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly” (Matthew 6:18b). Fasting is not an end in itself. If it were, it would be reduced to religious asceticism. However, it is another spiritual discipline that we can use to humble ourselves in reaching towards the Lord. Even with a heart hungry for the Lord, fasting is difficult for some people. If a person feels failure in this area, the Lord reaches out with His grace and mercy. “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need” Ephesians 4:16. Realize that, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:1). Each fast is a learning process in which a person will eventually find freedom. It may take many fasts or only a few fasts before feeling success in this area. Continue to fast, praying for strength, and being vulnerable before the Lord. As we continue to search for the Lord in this area, He will be faithful to strengthen us and to “reward those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:7). “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). .

One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple. Psalm 27:4 Spiritual Warfare In Matthew 4:1-11, we read that Jesus fasted for 40 days, and then was tempted by Satan. We, like Jesus, have an adversary that wants to distract us and steal what God has done through the fasting period. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Taking time to look at the three temptations that Jesus faced can help us to be prepared for the attack of the enemy during times of fasting as well as life in general.

Interestingly enough, they correspond to the three temptations listed in 1 John 2:16, “For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.” We will be tempted. However, the hope is that, “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13). There are ways of escape. Knowing the ways of escape, before temptation comes, enables us to fight skillfully rather than merely defensively. 1. Temptation of the Body: Lust of the Flesh “And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, ‘If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread’ ” (Matthew 4:2b-3). Answer: Depend on the Word of the Lord. Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy 8:3b, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” There is more to sustaining our lives than merely caring for our physical needs. Our lives depend on spiritual food that comes from God’s Word. Without it, we face a mundane life with little strength to live as Jesus promised (John 10:10). It’s amazing how powerful the Word is when we read it, think about it, believe it, and pray it! (Psalm 119, 2 Timothy 3:16, Hebrews 4:12, Joshua 1:8). More on “Lust of the Flesh”: In individual lives, “lust of the flesh” begins with physical cravings and can include desire for love, food, or other tangible things. Through unrestrained desires and lack of self-control, we suffer defeat. However, by walking in the Spirit dependent on the Word, we are sure to experience victory. (James 1:12-15, Galatians 5:16-25). 2. Temptation of the Soul: Pride of Life “Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, ‘If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: “He shall give His angels charge over you” ’ ” (Matthew 4:5-6a). Answer: Be determined to avoid praying in disbelief commanding God to act. Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy a second time, “You shall not tempt the LORD your God” (Deuteronomy 6:16). We can also read in Psalm 78:18-19a & 22, “And they tested God in their heart by asking for the food of their fancy. Yes, they spoke against God: They said, ‘Can God . . . ?’ Because they did not believe in God, and did not trust in His salvation” (emphasis added). (Psalm 78:40-41, James 1:6-8, 1 John 5:14-15). More on “Pride of Life”: The self-sufficient tendency to believe that God is not trustworthy while valuing independence as a more reliable way of life describes the downfall of the “pride of life.” Satan, himself, was guilty of this sin as he declared in his heart five times, “I will . . . “ (Isaiah 14:12-14). As a result of his rebellion, he was thrown out of heaven and became ruler of this world. Unbelief and distrust of God also characterize this temptation which results in making demands of God to show Himself real. However, determination resolves that God is Truth and is praiseworthy regardless of unanswered prayers or the circumstances of the moment. Humility resolves to put trust in the Living God rather than self and abilities. (Isaiah 55:8-9, Habakkuk 3:1718, Proverbs 29:23, Psalm 10:4 & 13, Ecclesiastes 2). 3. Temptation of the Spirit: Lust of the Eyes “Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, ‘All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me’ ” Matthew 4:8-9. Answer: Worship the Lord and resist the enemy. Jesus quoted from Deuteronomy a third time saying, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve’ ” (Matthew 4:10, Deuteronomy 6:13). From the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:117) to the Shema as a creed of the Jews (Deuteronomy 6:4-7) to the Greatest commandments as taught by Jesus (Mark 12:30-31), this principle of worshiping and serving the One True Living God

has been repeated and emphasized throughout the Bible. The consequences of disobedience throughout Biblical history have been clearly delineated and graphically described in the lives of rebellious people. More on “Lust of the Eyes”: Whereas “lust of the flesh” is an internal craving, “lust of the eyes” is provoked by externals. It is the draw towards power, success, etc. that can lead to godlessness, idolatry, jealousy, and anger. However, worshipping the Lord in humility destroys our cravings and allows the Lord to fill the place that once was inhabited by sinful desires. (John 4:21-26, John 3:30, Job 31:1, Job 28:27-28). Notice that during the second temptation, Satan used Scripture in his enticing of Jesus. Be aware that the enemy does have the capacity to twist Scripture to cause doubt and confusion. However, Jesus answered each temptation with Scripture in authority that was used to bring Light, Truth, and Power. Through the Holy Spirit as our teacher and Jesus as our Redeemer, we also have access to the authority of the Word of God to battle the temptations we face (John 14:26). Meditating on key Scriptures and giving forethought to our response when temptations come enables us to live victoriously against the adversary. The following Scriptures (along with Ephesians 6:10-18 explaining our spiritual armor) are part of the Lord’s clear instruction in regards to warring against the enemy in our lives. “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). “For the weapons of our warfare are . . . mighty in God . . . [bring] every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). “And they overcame him [Satan] by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony” (Revelation 12:11). Be discerning and always listening to the voice of the Lord. Pray against deception so that you can hear with confidence. Be quick to humbly confess wrongdoings and repent. Fasting is a wonderful opportunity to evaluate your heart, see the blind spots, and allow the Holy Spirit to purify those areas (Psalm 51:7-10).

Anointing Oil “Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face” (Matthew 6:16-17). The cultural instruction of these verses encourages continued hygiene, rather than intentional neglect and symbols of grief that were often done in times of mourning. The people during Jesus’ day used oil in their daily routines of taking care of their body. However, during times of grieving, the people would neglect hygiene and use outward signs, such as tearing clothes, using ashes, etc. to express their sadness. One practical application from these verses . . . we should continue to take care of our body as we normally would at other times. However, another interpretation looks deeper into the symbolism and purpose of anointing oil. The oil’s symbolism includes joy, healing, freedom, testing, and eternal life. When using oil, we can envision the power of the Holy Spirit anointing us during a fast. Anointing oil was often used to consecrate something or someone as set apart. It was also used during prayers for healing. (Internet resources can be helpful if you desire to research this topic deeper.) (Source: Jentezen Franklin’s audio sermon entitled Ingredients of the Anointing Oil.) For those who have never used anointing oil, we recommend purchasing a small bottle from a Christian bookstore. There are many products in the Christian market which have a basic ingredient of olive oil, although we have had friends use any type of oil that was available. Setting apart a small portion of oil as holy, through prayer, would be important especially when using oil not specifically labeled as “anointing oil.” There is really no prescribed way of applying the oil. One method is this: Apply a small amount of oil to the index finger. Draw the shape of a cross on the forehead while praying, “in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” Again, it’s not the ritual that’s the most important, it’s the heart. So we must be

sure to focus our heart on the Lord asking for His presence to anoint us and set us apart. In this way, we have the opportunity to specifically dedicate this fasting period to the Lord.

Fasting for Beginners Many Believers can be very intimidated with the idea of fasting. Fear and desire for comfort can keep some from engaging in this particular spiritual discipline. Having support and gradually beginning can help overcome the struggle. Introductory fasts, such as a one-meal, partial day or Yom Kippur fast, can be especially helpful to those who have never fasted before. Fasting for only one meal is much less threatening to begin. Set aside a 3-hour time frame to fast. This should be a time period in which food is usually consumed, rather than times that are regularly skipped over. Another beginning fast that is very effective is a Partial-Day fast. Choose a time-frame that includes part of the day. For example, a person could fast from morning until 3:00 in the afternoon. The Yom Kippur fast is patterned from the Jewish observance of the Old Testament fast described in Leviticus 23:26-32. Yom Kippur is a 24-hour fast observed from sunset to sunset. In this fast, eat a meal before sunset the first day, then enter into a 24-hour period of fasting. Go to bed at a regular time. The next day continue to fast for two meals. After sundown, conclude the fast and eat a meal.

Considering Children Parents (and those with occupations in food service) have an additional challenge in the provision of meals. Smells of cooking and the responsibility of handling food can be a great temptation. However, His strength becomes powerful in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Be careful not to neglect the needs of children during fasting. As children begin to watch and understand their parents’ lifestyle of fasting, they will have a natural basis from which to draw in their own spiritual development in this discipline. Children can be taught about fasting even from a young age. (Our youngest was 4 years old when we began teaching our children about fasting.) Using a more manageable type of fast for a shorter time frame will give children practical experience in a protected environment while providing a background from which to grow as they age. Examples of beginning fasts for children are: fasting from TV, desserts, or a certain activity. A Daniel Fast (vegan diet) is also suitable for one or two meals. They may even grow into voluntarily doing a juice fast for a meal. Remind them to pray when desire comes. An easy, heart-focused .” We have found it very effective to include children prayer is, “Lord, I want You more than I want in a fast for a need that we have as a family. In this way, they have mutual support from the family fasting together, and feel as though they have helped in an important way. There is even Biblical evidence in Joel 2 for children included in corporate fasts (v. 16).

Marriage Dynamics Although fasting is a personal act of worship, it is one spiritual discipline that can affect the people with whom you live. (Physical discomforts that affect moods and modified eating habits being primary.) Having a spouse’s support would be ideal. In this way, a spouse can encourage and be prayerful during your fasting period. There are times when fasting together as a couple, or even as a family, is beneficial and a great encouragement to all. However, we realize that there are some marriages within which this ideal could not take place. Fasting unto the Lord should then be done with graciousness and humility. There is one place in Scripture in which Paul gives instruction to married couples on fasting from sexual intimacy. “Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of selfcontrol” (1 Corinthians 7:5). Thoughts on this passage vary widely, from scholars who feel that the reference to fasting was not originally included in the Scripture to those who interpret the application of abstinence during any fasting. There are enough scholars who give this passage credence, that we feel also that it should be interpreted Biblically. However, we can not say that this means that every fast must be accompanied by sexual abstinence. We feel that sexual abstinence can be another type of fast that married couples can agree upon for a short time in order to pray for a specific situation.

Bondage to Food Many struggle with food issues whether stemming from low self-image, sluggish lifestyle, or other causes. People wrestling with weight sense the external pressure to change. However, this struggle is not limited to overweight individuals. Thin people are often overlooked in relation to food bondages, because their sin is not visible. However, an active metabolism does not excuse the abuse and overindulgence of food. Fasting requires extra spiritual strength from the Lord for those who are struggling with food issues. Fasting can also expose food bondages to those who were blind to them before. Great care should be taken in breaking fast. The temptation of the enemy may be the greatest in this area. There is an internet resource that includes Bible Study, accountability and fasting for those who desire freedom in the area of food. It is called “The Lord’s Table” from Setting Captives Free ministry. “We are about setting forth Christ as our soul's satisfaction, about calling ourselves to repentance from habits of overeating, and about maintaining accountability. . . . Fasting may be a time of intense spiritual growth. . . . Feasting at the Lord's Table is more than just reading our Bibles, it is a term to express the fattening of our souls in Jesus Christ. It means that we are sitting at the feet of Jesus, hearing His Word and believing, for the purpose of implementing the truths into our lives.” http://www.settingcaptivesfree.com/lords_table/

A Fasted Lifestyle A lifestyle of heartfelt fasting is a wonderful, adventurous experience. There is the inherent risk of being purified, receiving wisdom and understanding, living a deeper and more empowered life, battling on the front lines of spiritual warfare, and traveling on an exciting journey. Consider Anna: “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem” (Luke 2:36-38). Anna dedicated her life to the Lord in such a radical way that He rewarded her with seeing the baby Jesus in the temple. Can you imagine the privilege of seeing the reality of the very thing for which she had been praying? The coming Messiah . . . the very Son of God! Consider John Wesley who fasted twice a week. His influence in music and teaching continues to ripple through the ages. Like Wesley, a person can schedule fasting as a part of the regular routine of life, remembering to maintain the heart motivation of pursuing the Lord. Occasionally, needs that arise can trigger a desire to fast. Fasting can also be kept in mind just as general maintenance would. For example, something seems to remind us of those periodic things we have to do, such as an oil change on the car or even getting a haircut. It becomes a part of life. There are many people who have chosen to elevate fasting to a regular lifestyle. As a result, numerous individuals throughout history have left a righteous mark for all to see. There are countless more that will never be named who quietly live a life in the presence of God through a lifestyle of prayer and fasting. We can be a part of this active company of believers. Join the incomprehensible venture!

"What God's truth demands, His grace will provide." Francis Frangipane

Additional Resources 1. Practical Guidelines 2. Daniel Fast 3. Extended Water or Juice Fast 4. Sample Meal Plan for Breaking an Extended Fast 5. Comments From Others 6. Debra’s 40 Day Fast Testimony 7. Recommended Materials for Further Further Study

1. Practical Guidelines It is worth emphasizing that there are many different thoughts on fasting. Various resources will give an assortment of instructions. These guidelines are from our own interpretation and experiences. • Above all, pursue the Lord! • Be comforted with the Lord’s promise: “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). • Seek medical advice when there are concerns about health conditions or medications. An altered fast might work best in these cases, such as pregnancy or diabetes. The Daniel Fast has worked well for many people. Be sure to consult your doctor before starting. • There are definite opinions on fasting. However, it is a very personal act of worship between you and the Lord. Avoid allowing others to mandate your fasting journey with the Lord. Exercise freedom in modifications of fasting that you may need or feel appropriate. However, remain teachable and humble to receive advice from others and the Lord. • Go in the Lord’s strength, not your own. (Although a fast can be fueled by personal desire or by the supernatural ability of the Lord, pursue His heart and strength.) • Keep your focus on the Lord rather than the fast. • Maintain a heart of humility, repentance, and surrender. • Spend time in praise, thanksgiving, and adoration of the Lord. • Fight temptations of a grumpy attitude, desire for food, etc. Be wise about spiritual warfare that you may encounter during and after a fast. “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7). • Cravings are reminders to draw your attention to the Lord. • Individuals’ bodies react differently to fasting. Some experience headaches, dizziness, feeling cold, etc. Learn your body in relation to breaking fasts as well. Some bodies are sensitive to certain foods immediately after fasting. • Out of respect, communicate with the “cook” of the family when you are fasting and will not be eating. (It can cause hurt feelings to spend time on a meal that will not be eaten as expected.) • Take a proactive approach to avoid caffeine withdrawal headaches by drinking decaffeinated beverages prior to fasting. • It common to be colder than normal. Just add another layer of clothing and drink hot liquids. • Be aware of bad breath that often accompanies fasting. Use mouthwash and/or sugar-free gum often. • Don’t be afraid to give testimony of fasting and what God has done during that time. (It might be more comfortable for some to wait until the fast is over.)

2. Daniel Daniel Fast (The Miner Version) If there are many different thoughts on fasting in general, there are even more diverse interpretations of the Daniel Fast, which is taken from Daniel 1:5, 8, 12-16 and Daniel 10:3. This fast is based on Daniel’s experience of praying and modified fasting for 21 days. Various resources will give an assortment of instructions. However, the basic premise of the Daniel Fast is to eat as “natural” as possible. We interpret that as applying the guideline of eating unprocessed food that comes from the ground. Breakfast ideas: oatmeal, potatoes, grits, fruit Snacks: celery with peanut butter & raisins, peanut butter & oatmeal balls, dried fruit & nuts Look for vegan recipes online for meal ideas that can include soups, salads, and grain dishes. Foods You May Eat: • Whole Grains: Brown rice, Jasmine or Basmati rice, Oats, Barley • Legumes: Dried beans, Pinto beans, Split peas, Lentils, Black-eyed peas • Herbs and Spices for seasoning • Fruits (fresh, dried, or frozen) • Vegetables: (fresh, canned, or frozen), includes soy products • Liquids: 100% all natural fruit juices, 100% all natural vegetable juices, Protein drinks, Coffee & Teas (caffeine-free) • Others: Seeds, Nuts, Sprouts, All natural peanut butter Foods to Avoid: • Meat or meat broths, White rice, Fried foods, Caffeine, Carbonated beverages • Milk and Dairy products • Foods containing preservatives or additives • Sweeteners: Refined or raw sugar, Sugar substitutes, Honey (and other natural sweeteners) • Flour and All products using it • Margarine, Shortening, High fat products Exceptions: • In very small amounts: Oil & Butter for cooking, Salt, Salad dressing Variations: • Limiting strictly to fresh uncooked fruits & vegetables. • Eating only 1 meal a day. • Allowing whole grain breads. • Permitting certain types of foods that would normally be avoided. • Using natural sweeteners. Internet Resources specifically related to Daniel Fast: • http://www.christ-web.com/daniel-fast/daniel-fast-blog • http://danielsfastcookbook.com/index.html

3. Extended Water or Juice Fast (Usually 20 20-40 days) Fasting for more than three days may seem impossible. However, many people have utilized extended fasting for a deeper pursuit of the Lord and intercession for His purposes on the earth. The Lord’s supernatural ability meets a determined heart in order to richly bless the “impossible.” All the practical guidelines stated before are applicable here as well. However, special care must be given to “breaking a fasting.” Ending a fast well will prevent adverse physical effects. • Seek a doctor’s supervision especially when there are health concerns or medications related. For some medications, it may be sufficient to only eat a few crackers or toast when taking them. • Drink lots of water! Warm vegetable broth or hot water can be helpful during colder weather. We encourage limiting juice or broth to mealtimes. • If there are nutritional concerns, consider taking multi-vitamins daily and/or occasionally drinking nutritional shakes with protein. • Throughout the fast, be sure to get adequate amounts of rest and maintain a low-moderate activity level. • An extended fast will cleanse toxins in the body, and may bring physical discomforts during and while ending the fast. Some encourage health supplements such as acidophilus or fiber to aid bowel movements throughout the fast. • Dry mouth & bad breath are common and can be curbed by drinking lots of water and chewing sugar-free gum (especially mint flavor). Ending an Extended Fast • Toxins being cleaned out of the body may cause physical discomfort even when ending a fast. • Have a menu plan for the first 3-5 days in order to help maintain self-control and moderation. Breaking a fast slowly is important. • Gradually introduce food to avoid overeating and resulting sickness. • The first few days of food are vital to give your body time to re-acclimate itself. • LEARN YOUR BODY! Each person is different in the way their bodies respond to food after fasting. Know what to avoid, and what is acceptable. • Menu Ideas: For the first day, eat small portions of plain fruit and vegetables every couple hours, gradually adding starches on the 2nd day, use the Daniel Fast food guidelines for ideas also. Internet Resources specifically related to Breaking A Fast: • http://www.windandfire.org/2007/Staff/Documents/Spiritual/WFM%20%20Breaking%20an%20Extended%20Fast.pdf • http://www.fasting.ws/juice-fasting/breaking-a-fast/breaking-a-fast

4. Sample Meal Plan For Breaking An An Extended Fast Use minimal condiments. As you resume normal eating, go slow and eat smaller portions. Eat when you’re hungry rather than following cravings, and avoid junk food. Exercising self-control during these few days may be the biggest spiritual test of the fast as a whole. Day 1: 8am ½ fruit, 10am ½ fruit, lunch-small salad, 3p few raw vegetables, supper-light vegetable soup (no meat). Day 2: 8am oatmeal, 10am fruit, lunch-rice and cooked vegetables, 3p few raw vegetables, supper-bean soup and salad Day 3: 8am unsweetened cereal (hot or cold), snacks as needed (can try nuts and dried fruit or popcorn), lunch-baked potato with minimal toppings and steamed vegetables, supper- rice soup and salad.

5. Comments From Others Teaching and imparting the value of fasting in others has given the unique opportunity to glean from lots of experiences and thoughts. Much of what has been written in this material, as a whole, has been influenced by the many people in our lives. Now, it is their turn to share. “I have experienced the sugar drops, the headaches, the panic of ‘I can't eat anything!’ I try and pray about how I KNOW my symptoms are nothing compared to Jesus' pain and suffering, and that seems to get me through the moment.” “I have never fasted before. A few months ago, fasting came to my attention. I felt this burning inside that I must do this.” “For the last year or so, I've had a hunger (a REAL hunger) to know God on a more personal, more intimate level. I read so many books, and have spent lots of time in prayer; however, I just didn't seem to be able to really ‘press in.’ During my times of fasting and prayer, and being able to discuss Scripture and experiences with the class, I feel like I'm finally able to make a dent! I can't describe what a difference (for me anyway) that fasting has made when combined with my prayers. Knowing God (even a little) on this level makes me want so much more of Him! I'm learning to keep my focus on Him alone; no matter the circumstances and to keep on ‘pressing in.’ Once you've had a ‘taste’ of intimacy with the King of kings, there is no going back...kind of like when I was first saved.” “At first, whenever I had hunger pains, I would pray and turn my attention immediately to the Lord. After the first day, the hunger pains went away. I believe that God used the fast to help cleanse my physical body as well as my spiritual body. Since that point in time, I have felt led to fast as a spiritual discipline. I do not have scripture specifically, but the verse that comes to my heart each time is from Matthew where Jesus is telling Satan that ‘man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ When I fast, I want to focus on God and His Word. I want to feast on the Word and allow God to speak to me as I am seeking the Lord on different things.” “During the 3-day fast, I felt challenged, and a little ‘scared’ since it was my first. But the morning after, when I really relaxed, I felt real joy and the presence of the Lord, like he was saying ‘Way to go!’” “I am doing a six day juice fast. I had second thoughts. But when I prayed about it, I couldn’t ignore God's request. He has been calling me away from the things of this world and distractions and into His presence.” “I have grown in my understanding of fasting. I noticed that in previous times, I made it through the fasts. But I did what I pleased without any thought of intimacy with God even though I had prayer times scheduled in. Through Isaiah 58, the Lord really spoke to me, ‘Is this a fast acceptable to me when you do what you please? You’re neglecting intimacy with me. Intimacy with me is to do what I do.’ As I grew in this area, it was definitely very helpful.” “There’s a lot of cleansing that goes along with a fast. What I really found is that my body cleansing itself was symbolic of the spiritual cleansing that occurred as I entered a time of confession. I became broken and pushed the reset button, so to speak.” “I take the time to set aside for fasting. As a result of giving up everything, my mind is less cluttered and really focused when I read Scripture. I found that when I read anything, it would make total sense.” “I’m not very good at self-denial. This is a good opportunity for the sake of Christ, but it only works when my heart is in it. I have fasted before with wrong motives, and there wasn’t much benefit to it. During a particular fast, even when my body was not hungry, my mind was craving food. It was a mental distraction: when mealtimes came, my mind latched onto my habit of eating and kept reminding me to eat. My body was

cooperating, but my mind wasn't. When we get used to being distracted, our carnal minds can jump easily to all kinds of competing desires.” “I was fasting for 24 hours and I was also in an intense time of intercessory prayer. Like Nehemiah, I was confessing some of that sin of others, and I felt very vulnerable and a little scared (wrongfully so). Then the next day I didn't really want to intercede again because it was a little emotionally connected, and there was some fear. But when I read Jeremiah 48:10, ‘Cursed is he who does the work of the Lord with slackness, and cursed is he who keeps back his sword from bloodshed,’ I felt like God was calling me back to prayer as a battle. I remembered Ephesians 6:10-20 about the armor of God. So, I just wrote out all of our armor, Belt=truth, breastplate=righteousness, etc. Then I began again. This time the fear was gone and God had more victory.”

6. Debra’s 40 40 Day Fast Testimony There came a point in my life in which I was so desperate for the Lord that I began fasting on a regular basis. I then grew to a place of boldness and confidence to fast for key answers to prayer from the Lord’s promises about specific issues in my life. As I began to fast that day, I knew it would probably be a “few days,” but was not exactly sure how long. Around Day 2, I remembered my husband’s previous experience of fasting for 40 days. I immediately dismissed the idea as being impossible for me. However, by Day 5, with much fear, I submitted to the Lord’s persistent prompting to fast 40 days. Being of small stature, I was concerned with too much weight loss and the attention of people’s concerns in relation. I stepped out to follow the Lord and trust Him, along with my husband’s support and prayers. By the end of the fast, I realized that the Lord had literally covered me. Very few people had noticed the change in my weight. There were few questions, and very little attention given to me. I was very appreciative that the Lord protected my fears and introversion in such a gracious and miraculous way! The Lord did not move as I had expected, but instead broadened my heart to pray for an increase of the Lord’s presence in our family. He confirmed, in an obvious way, that He had heard the cries of my heart and imparted significant words to me. He also birthed a call to writing (which only He could do), and several booklets were begun at this time. As a stay-at-home Mom, I continued to prepare three meals and snacks each day. The Lord was so gracious in strengthening me moment by moment, day by day. Even so, at any time during those 40 days, I was hungry and ready to quit. But the unanswered prayers fueled my determination to continue. I am thankful the Lord held back from meeting my requests. As a result, I came into a greater desperation and deeper intimacy than I have ever known. The Lord confirmed in a very real way that He does hear my prayers and He does know my heart. The presence of the Lord was indescribably sweet! To be honest, I have been forever ruined, always yearning for that depth of intimacy with the Lord, which motivates me day by day to cultivate a hungry heart and to search for Him as for hidden treasure!

7. Recommended Materials for Further Study Websites: http://www.new-life.net/fasting.htm (Biblical perspective) http://sci.pam.szczecin.pl/~fasting/breakfast.pdf (Medical perspective) http://www.juicefasting.org/ (Medical perspective) By Bill Bright at InterVarsity: http://www.ccci.org/growth/growing-closer-to-god/how-to-fast/index.aspx http://www.ccci.org/growth/growing-closer-to-god/7-steps-to-fasting-and-prayer/index.aspx Children’s Resource: Pray Kids! By NavPress http://navpress.com/images/pdfs/33.pdf Books: The Beginner’s Guide to Fasting by Elmer Towns God’s Chosen Fast by Arthur Wallis Fasting by Jentezen Franklin Hunger For God by John Piper

Scripture References: Quoted from New King James Version unless otherwise noted.