Day 3

The enemy is not happy with our fasting.

For some, it might not seem that apparent, but after a few conversations with friends, I can see what he is doing.

He is keeping us busy.

Planning meals, shopping for meals, preparing meals - all for meals that are not our "norm."

And the whole intention of the fast goes out the window.

Let me be the first to say - he's got me busy.

But not for long, because I see what the enemy is doing and I will not stand by and let him continue.

So how can we keep up the food part of the fast, while putting God and time with Him first and foremost in our daily life?

I don't have it figured out, but these things have helped for me...

I spent this afternoon preparing several fast-friendly foods that will make the rest of the week easier - Indian flatbread, unleavened bread, hummus, vegetarian chili.

Find some other friends that are doing the same fast and do a soup swap. Make up enough to trade two or three servings with each person and meet up once a week to exchange.

There are a few helpful items at the grocery store that are fast-friendly as well:

*Newman's Own Olive Oil and Vinegar Salad Dressing
*Fresh Salsa - check the labels and you will find there are several that only use vegetables and spices, especially in the produce aisle
*Dried Fruit - many have sugar added, but dried apples are a safe bet
*Frozen Stir Fry Veggies
*Frozen Fruit for Smoothies

There are also some great resources for recipes on the web! Make sure to check around there as well.

For me, this is a HUGE change from my normal diet, so this week is going to be a little crazy figuring out what to eat.

But this fast MUST BE ABOUT HIM. End of story.

And I am done with the enemy trying to keep me busy through this. He will not win this battle.

P.S. The chili was spicy, but quite yummy :)