On Sunday we begin Awakening and our 21 days of prayer and fasting. I have been blown away by the number of people in our church who are committing to the Daniel Fast for the entire 21 days. This is going to shake some things in Metro Detroit!
Whether you are fasting part of the time or the entire 21 days, here are some thoughts to help you get started.
- Drink, drink, and when in doubt...drink! Water is the best.
- For some added energy, drink 100% fruit juices without a lot of added sugar.
- Don't wait until the last minute to stop drinking coffee.
- Let the Holy Spirit lead you through the fast, and avoid becoming too religious about it by focusing on rules. And avoid the temptation to pressure others or make them feel guilty because they're not fasting your way.
- Have a plan! If you're not sure where to start, check out this handout which explains exactly what our leadership team at the church will be doing during the Daniel Fast. These boundaries help us fast in unity and know that we're doing something significant together.
- The fast begins this Sunday night at 6.00 pm.
- Remember that this is a time for PRAYER and fasting. The goal is not to simply go without food. It is to feed our spiritual appetites. So while you're fasting, remember to indulge in God!
- Participate in as many corporate prayer meetings as you can. We will meet at the Berkley campus every Sunday night from 6.00 - 7.00 pm, every Tuesday morning from 6.30 - 7.30 am, and every Thursday afternoon from 12.00 - 1.00 pm. We'll build toward one explosive prayer and worship service on Wednesday, January 28, at 7.00 pm.
- We are partnering with hundreds of other churches around the country during these 21 days of prayer and fasting. See the bigger picture by visiting the Awakening website.
- Limit distractions like excessive media, and listen closely to God's voice. Solitude, worship, journaling, and Bible study will help.
In the same way that praying at the beginning of the day invites God's Presence into the entire day, fasting at the beginning of the year is a great way to dedicate the entire year to God. I believe this will be an explosive season of seeking God!
Awesome stuff, our church is also doing the Daniel fast. Check out my blog to see my journey. How are you doing so far?
Posted by: Johnny Sierra | January 09, 2009 at 11:35 PM
I pray God provides you and your church the strength to follow through in these 21 days of fasting. Not only physically but also Spiritually. May it be a blessing to your lives and may God bless this year for each of you through your sacrifice made to seek Him!
My church is doing the fast also, and its been going great!
God bless!
Posted by: Kelly | January 12, 2009 at 09:55 AM