Our church has taken part in the Daniel's Fast for two years now. For me, it has been an extraordinary experience. The first year I felt: How can I make it without bread, cookies and coffee? That is pretty much what I live on - my three food groups. And, if in view of my failed attempts at dieting...things weren't looking good.
But, last year it was different, our church did it as a community - with us all helping and encouraging each other. I made it, was never hungry (but more importantly, was never stuffed either!). FABULOUS!
The fast is taken from the book of Daniel - chapters 1 & 10. Daniel records two different fasts, one a ten day fast and one a 21 day fast. You will find a million versions of the Daniel's Fast out there - this is what our church does: we cut out all meat, dairy, sugars, caffeine, yeasts (leaveners), and bread for 21 days. Yes, it is quite a challenge! One great benefit is you learn to cook differently. The main purpose is not about the food though...this scripture really spoke to me about why I personally NEED to fast. This has been "my verse" during this fast. I want my soul to hunger and thirst after God...so I've got to let my appetite go hungry.
"We work to feed our appetites; meanwhile our souls go hungry.”
Ecclesiastes 6:7 (The Message Bible)
This is a little of what I learned about the food choices I had been making:
1. I had been living to eat, instead of eating to live.
2. Sugar is in EVERYTHING!
3. I can make a lot of yummy things with only fruits or veggies!
4. Food isn't worth the unhappiness it brings.
5. I eat super-rich meals continually. When was the last time I made just a pot of soup for supper?
6. I had deadened my taste buds to what sweetness really was - bananas (& grapefruits, surprisingly!) are sweet.
7. I have more energy WITHOUT caffeine and sugar.
8. I have been artificially stimulating myself - for more energy. (coffee, cookies)- now I exercise for more energy. It works even better (and I can still have a cookie! ha!)
9. I can SLEEP again! I get tired at night. Sleep like a rock. Wake up refreshed!
10. Learning how to cook was a challenge but a fun new exploration! Learned about making better choices.
If you are struggling with weight loss, self-control issues, addictions and desire to draw closer to God in the coming year, try this fast...it is extraordinary!
If you would like a little more information on the fast itself, here are a few links:
danielfast.wordpress.com - Daniel Fast blogger Susan Gregory, who also authored the book, "the Daniel Fast"
awake21.org
daniel-fast.com
I'll let you know how this fast went when it is done...but, just a little sneak-peek...I have been studying the book of Proverbs...it has been so GOOD!!
God bless! Kristen
Kristen you said exactly what I feel. Food has never tasted as good as it does right now. I have a clarity that was lacking because of the caffeine & sugar. God has been leading me in the word & speaking directly to me as I pray. This year has been an amazing fast & I honestly don't want it to end. Thanks for all the inspiration!
ReplyDeleteThank you Tammy...it is so good to break free from the "addictions" isn't it? I am so glad you are enjoying it so much! God bless you, Tammy!
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