Friday, January 2, 2009

WHAT KIND OF FAST?

As we prepare to begin 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting, it's important to keep in mind that the type of fast you choose is between you and God. An important principle to keep in mind is to always give God your best.

• Full Fast
Abstain from food and drink only liquids (water and / or specific juices. The best juices are from fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid any liquids containing caffeine, as they will stimulate your appetite and make fasting more difficult.

• The Daniel Fast
Abstain from meats, sweets and breads. Drink water and juices. Eat vegetables and natural fruits.

• 3-Day Fast
This can be a full fast, Daniel Fast, or your own unique approach to fasting (i.e., giving up one food item, fasting a set number of meals each day, etc.)

• Partial Fast
A partial fast is from 6:00 am – 3:00 pm or from sunup to sundown. Again, this can be a full fast, Daniel Fast or your own unique approach.

• Fasting Television, Entertainment, Video Games, etc.
For those who desire to participate in the fast, but may be unable to fast food items, consider fasting other items such as television, entertainment, video games, secular music, etc. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in how you approach the fast. Your desire is to honor God and to pursue His heart.

• Scripture References for Fasting
Isaiah 58:6; Matthew 6:16-18; Matthew 9:14-15; Luke 18:9-14

• Relation to Prayer and Reading God’s Word
1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18; Nehemiah 1:4; Daniel 9:3, 20; Joel 2:12; Luke 2:37; Acts 10:30; Acts 13:2

• Some Scriptures Related To Corporate Fasting
1 Samuel 7:5-6; Ezra 8:21-23; Nehemiah 9:1-3; Joel 2:15-16; Jonah 3:5-10; Acts 27:33-37

Remember that it is the attitude of the heart and your desire to passionately and sincerely pursue God’s heart that God blesses (Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 14:12, 1 Corinthians 8:8).

It’s our prayer that God strengthen, sustain and bless you as you pursue His heart through this time of prayer and fasting.


IMPORTANT NOTE: Fasting and Your Health
If you are in poor health or have concerns about your physical ability to fast, please consult a physician before beginning a fast. Your doctor can provide advice on how you can participate in the 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting in a way that is healthy for you.

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