Christ's Place: 21 Day Fast

Day 21: Carry It On

2011-04-23T22:24:00.002-05:00

Tonight, we wrap up this fast.

What has He been doing in your heart?

Where has He been leading you?

What has He stirred up inside you?

Was it a certain Scripture, like Isaiah 58 with Jen or maybe a major life change that He spoke to you about or even a renewed devotion to Him?

Whatever it may be, it doesn't have to end tonight.

In fact, tomorrow, as we celebrate His glorious resurrection, we should also be celebrating the ways He has spoke to us during this fast and springing into action!

Because the end of the fast means the beginning of new life - a renewed life that continually celebrates that He is alive and working and present in our lives.

And He CARES enough about you to keep speaking and guiding, even after the fast. This isn't a one time deal.

May we not go back to the same old same old tomorrow.

As Tadd shared a few days ago...

So although you can soon go back to eating and doing all that you did before, don’t let that focus cause you to forget why you did it in the first place.

Make the time in your day to let Him continue to work...

"Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." ~Philippians 1:6

And have a blessed Resurrection Sunday!

~Erin

{And a huge thank you to Tadd and Jen for sharing their hearts and reflections throughout this fast - we have all been blessed by your words!}

Day 20: That's My King

2011-04-22T11:42:00.007-05:00

I loved Danette’s devotion this morning & Tadd’s blog post last night. This fast has been a time of wrestling & struggling for me. My hope is that even though my emotions through this haven’t always been pretty, that this quote from Tadd will be true…

God takes our imperfect attitudes, our imperfect words, our imperfect actions, and when mixed with faith makes them a sweet smelling aroma to himself.

One of the things I’ve wrestled with these past few days is a desire to please people. There’s some empty place inside of me that I want to fill with people’s approval. I wish it weren’t there, but it is and it shows it’s ugly self way too often.

As I thought about that, in light of this weekend, I was so humbled. Throughout Jesus’ life there was never a shortage of people that didn’t approve of Him. Leading up to His death, He was mocked, beat, ridiculed, and then, on this Good Friday, our innocent Jesus was killed, next to thieves with a shameful death on a cross.

If Jesus had his eyes on the world & wanted their approval He could have stopped the madness at any moment & done whatever He wanted to prove himself to be the King, the one most worthy of our love. But He didn’t. He had an audience of one. He was solely focused on God…His plan, His will, His purposes.

Thanks to His obedience to God’s will, He died for our sins & rose from the dead. He changed the world forevermore. He became the remedy for all that’s wrong in this world…starvation, death, disease, sin, pain…all of it. He became the sacrifice that paved the way for me & you to be adopted as God’s children.

May He impart that kind of singular focus to us today & let us watch in anticipation to see what God will do! Think on this…

Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10

Let’s lay down our desire for approval, forget what anyone might think, & run with reckless abandonment after God & His will. Let us throw fear aside & invite people to join us at church this weekend. Let’s pray with passion that God will bring record numbers of people to hear the truth of who Jesus is & that He will prepare their hearts to receive Jesus as their King!

He is the one who will fill our empty places & He is the one deserving of every ounce of our focus. That’s my King…let’s sacrifice everything to serve Him.

Jen

Day 19: A Gift

2011-04-21T21:34:00.004-05:00

Do you ever wonder why the one thing God really wants is you? Your life, your heart, everything about you! He wants us so badly that he gave with unmatched extravagance to make it happen.

Really God, you want my life?

For full disclosure I should probably get a “Buyer Beware” tattoo or something. When it comes to the gift of God in the person of Jesus, I feel exactly like the unscrupulous salesman should feel after getting over on an unsuspecting patron.

When someone gives you an amazing gift, it is only natural to want to match their generosity or thoughtfulness. The woman in Mark 14:3 had received something from Jesus, and she was making an attempt to give back her very best.

As you read on in Mark, you see that the rest of the dinner guests were quite upset about the “waste.” It doesn’t specifically say so, but it is easy to imagine the guests’ indignation being a religious cover for their own feelings of inadequacy.

More than anything I want to reciprocate God’s extravagant giving… but I can’t.

Even though this woman had given her very best, a perfume that may have cost a year’s wages, it was not enough to match his gift. Was Jesus concerned about this? No!

Has this Daniel Fast been your attempt to give God a gift? I don’t know that I have looked at it that way until reading this morning’s devotion, but in a way it is. I have tried over these last 19 days to give God the best that I could, but even my best could never match what he has done for me.

Have you felt that what you’ve given over these 19 days isn’t good enough?

Have you compared yourself to others?

Have you felt indignation?

Have your actions and words always matched up with a fasted life?

I for one could answer all those questions in a way that makes my gift seem less than adequate.

Regardless of your own perceived success, have you been doing the Daniel fast in faith, to the best of your ability? God takes our imperfect attitudes, our imperfect words, our imperfect actions, and when mixed with faith makes them a sweet smelling aroma to himself.

This is God’s nature, what he takes pleasure in. Had you chosen not to give these days, your time, your energy, your best, he could not have done what he’s done in your life.

This is giving God what he really wants, a chance to work in your life.

This is putting your trust in him, and giving back to him, extravagantly!

~Tadd

Day 18: Removing Temptation

2011-04-20T22:23:00.002-05:00

Last year, as I blogged through this 21 day fast, I did a little complaining.

About jelly beans.

I probably complained even more about it in my head.

I had bought a bag of jelly beans right before the fast and then they sat in the cupboard - taunting me.

I wised up this year and did NOT buy a bag of jelly beans right before the fast. I removed the temptation. And I haven't thought about them much.

Isn't that what God asks of us?

If at all possible, we should remove temptations from our lives instead of trying to avoid them while they are still staring us in the face!

And it took a bag of jelly beans - and lack of this year - to make it so clear for me!

Of course, there are temptations that we must face everyday and ask God for the strength to move past them.

I had to make meals for the boys that included meat during these 21 days, so I couldn't completely remove meat from my life, even though it has been tempting me all the way through. I just had to ask God to help me not grab those last few pieces of taco meat...

I am so thankful for this new perspective - and I am looking forward a little to eating some jelly beans soon, just not as tempted :)

What has God brought into focus in a new way for you during this fast?

~Erin

Day 17: Making Change Last

2011-04-19T20:53:00.005-05:00

As we approach the final days of this year’s Daniel Fast, I have been thinking about what I’ve gained along the way, and what I will refuse to let go.

As we move back to “normal”, hopefully “normal” has changed, at least a little. Not just in terms of eating healthier or being more purposeful with your time (both of which are excellent), but with your heart, your attitude, your capacity for God.

What spiritual muscles have you developed, and how will you keep flexing them?

I will be taking some things with me on the food side (some of the things we’ve eaten have been so good in spite of their healthy contents that I see no reason quit), as well as continuing to refrain from certain activities (for me talk radio really needs to stay on the “do not play list”). But more importantly there is an awareness of God that I don’t want to leave.

A woman in our connect group shared last week about her tenacious perseverance to spend 2 hours in prayer, seeking God’s face. In her initial attempts she kept falling asleep.

So she would set aside another time and try again.

After several attempts, and with dogged resolve, she was able to go for the full 2 hours. Only by pushing through was she able to get past a busy life full of responsibility and care, past fatigue, past the inability to focus, past lists of things to do.

When she got there, she said she found a sweet place with the Lord she had not visited for quite some time. Her story was invigorating, and honestly her enthusiasm and her intention to visit that place again soon, had me on the edge of tears.

This is such a great picture of not only fasting, but the intentionality required for lasting spiritual growth.

This is what I want to take with me, a life of pressing past all the things that keep me from him… a fasted life.

After you have had a day of feasting and celebrating Easter Sunday, how will you reengage with him Monday morning? Life has an ebb and flow to it and no one can keep up a pace of intense devotion continually, and that is okay, don’t let that get you down. Still, make your plans now for keeping up with the progress you’ve made in your appetite for him.

When will you fast next? Not for three weeks, but a day, or a meal.

When will you plan to be alone with him again, to share your heart, to be still and know?

So although you can soon go back to eating and doing all that you did before, don’t let that focus cause you to forget why you did it in the first place.

Let’s purpose to make this change last. Imagine what our God can do with that commitment, and where it will take us as individuals, and as a church!

~Tadd

Day 16: The Spirit

2011-04-18T19:54:00.006-05:00

I'm a gifts person. If I want to say "I love you" or show someone I care, I give them something...a note, some money, something special I think they would enjoy. When someone gives me something, it makes me feel loved. Any way you go about it, I love gifts!

As I said in my last post, when I gave my heart to Jesus I was adopted into God's family. I became His child. Because I am His child, Jesus gave me the most incredible gift...the Holy Spirit.

What a gift! The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in me! (Romans 8:11). We may have heard that before, but hear it with your heart right now...Jesus was dead, deceased, void of a heartbeat & soul and the Spirit of God brough Him back to life...walking, breathing, touch the scars in my hands LIFE. Then, God put that Spirit inside you and me. If that doesn't say I love you, I don't know what does.

But here's the kicker, so many times I live my life without seeking more of the Spirit. I'll give things a good dose of my own effort, I'll pray & talk to God about things while hoping and waiting for an answer, but for some reason I often forget to just seek & beg for more of God's Spirit. To fully surrender to the Spirit that's alive in me.

It's just like Pastor Rick's sermon this past Sunday. Jesus says, "Come to me all who are weary & burdened & I will give you rest." (Matt. 11:28) Why? Because He knows we're worn out from our own wrong thinking & failed efforts.

If I'd just come to Him & take on His yoke I'd experience more of His rest. If I'd just seek the Holy Spirit in the millions of little moments throughout my day, I'd live yielded to the Spirit of God that He's placed inside of me because I am His child.

I read about the Holy Spirit some today. Take a peek at this...
* The mind controlled by the Spirit is life & peace (Romans 8:6)
* The Spirit is our Counselor (John 16:7)
* The Spirit is power to be Jesus's witness (Acts 1:8)
* The Spirit gives eternal life (Galatians 6:8)
* The Spirit intercedes for me when I'm weak (Romans 8:26)
* The Spirit brings love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22)
And, that's just the tip of the ice berg.

I want to encourage each of us, myself included, to spend some time today seeking, begging for more of the Spirit. May His power transform our humanity into the likeness of Jesus Christ!
Jen

Day 15: Purposeful Fasting

2011-04-17T22:07:00.003-05:00

It just so happens that my Bible reading plan focused this past week on fasting. Along with the selected verses, there were several other readings included and this one had to be shared...

Purposeful Fasting
Clyde Taber

Fasting is a strange word to our ears. We cringe, hesitate, and dismiss it. We sidestep it as gingerly as the religious leaders bypassed the beaten man in Jesus' parable. Yet fasting was part of the rhythm and flow of the life of the early Church.

Jesus Christ affirmed and embraced the Old Covenant practice of fasting. "When you give to someone in need" (Matthew 6:2), "when you pray" (Matthew 6:5), "when you fast" (Matthew 6:16) he taught on the mount. Jesus assumed giving, praying, and fasting were a normal part of the spiritual life. These are not electives, but a part of the core teaching in the school of Christ.

Fasting preceded many great hinge points in human history. After Moses fasted he received the tablets that changed our knowledge of sin and the world's sense of rightness (Exodus 34:28). After Jesus fasted the cup began to flow with the wine of the New Covenant (Matthew 4:2). After the early Church leaders fasted the Jesus movement exploded beyond the borders of Palestine (Acts 13:2). The 20th Century Church in Asia fasted and now it grows at unprecedented rates. The Father loves to reward those who fast with a pure heart (Matthew 6:18).

Fasting precedes purpose and so purpose should precede fasting. When we fast, we should consider it a time of "setting aside" in order to "take up." We abstain from food for a time in order to better focus on Christ and His kingdom. Fasting requires resolution and dedication. We take time to exit the highway of our busy lives. Fasting is most beneficial when accompanied with seeking, sacrificing and sowing to the Spirit rather than flesh. When we eat, we satisfy the flesh. When we fast, we reach beyond the flesh to the realm of the Spirit.

Fruitfulness in fasting is not quickly achieved. It is a practice that is enhanced with time and experience. When we enter into a season of fasting, the Lord gives grace. For a moment it reminds us of death, and then the Spirit translates the absence of food into a sense of life, light and discernment.

As Jesus Christ was deliberate in his journey to Jerusalem, may we follow him in this practice. Not "if," but "when you fast."

*****
As we enter the last week of this 21 Day Fast, you may be frustrated, bored with the food you've been eating, ready to give up and give in, but keep this in mind as your source of inspiration...

Fruitfulness in fasting is not quickly achieved. It is a practice that is enhanced with time and experience. When we enter into a season of fasting, the Lord gives grace.

Accept His grace and press on to the end!

~Erin

Day 14: Preparation

2011-04-16T20:34:00.002-05:00

I help lead a ministry here at church. I pray for this ministry a lot - for the meetings, for those who attend, for the other leaders and so on.

But this Friday, I realized that wasn't enough...

All year, these Fridays have come and gone and the actual meetings have gone really well.

It's the prep time on those Fridays - getting the kids and myself ready and out the door and such - that have been extremely stressful.

It took me until this Friday to realize that Satan doesn't have to attack the actual meeting to make an impact. He can mess things up during the preparation time that can seem so insignificant to us.

I would show up late or stressed out and with my mind in a million other places - just what the enemy wanted. While everything seemed to go smoothly once the meeting started, little things here and there would fall through the cracks.

What's my point?

We're in a time of preparation right now. Preparation for a harvest of souls at Easter - not just at Christ's Place, but around the world.

We're praying for attendance and souls saved at Easter, but what about the worship practices leading up to it? The pastors preparing messages? The children's ministry lining up workers? Guest services finding greeters and parking lot attendants and all of the other integral positions? Each and every volunteer as they get ready and on their way next Saturday and Sunday?

Our preparation prayers don't just have to be for those preparing at the church. Those who are inviting visitors to Easter service need prayers NOW as well. And as we've mentioned before, we should be praying now for hearts to be softened and open to those invitations.

God is definitely in the details and a lot of those details happen in the preparation. Ask Him to show you what areas of preparation need our prayers now and then do it!

“I will send my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way” -
“a voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.’”
~Mark 1:2-3

~Erin

Day 13: Adopted

2011-04-15T20:09:00.004-05:00

I’ve fasted before and felt like God was in my face…like I would say something to Him & know He’d heard me & feel His presence like never before. Not this time.

The ugly truth is, I’ve been struggling. I’ve been praying, reading the Bible more & feeling nothing. I’ve been hoping for a God-in-my-face moment and haven’t had one. But, as Tadd encouraged us, I’m pressing on to “finish strong.”

Yesterday, I felt things start to fall apart. It’s been a rough week & yesterday that brought me face to face with my weaknesses, my fears, the places that I want God to fill, but that still feel empty. I felt like I’d been stirred & shaken & what rose to the top was my own ugly need.

I’ve been so focused on Isaiah 58 & giving, loving, & serving “the needy.” But I’ve realized something. It’s really easy to have a heart to serve “the needy” while putting myself in another category. Today I feel humbled & reminded that I am also “the needy.”

As much as I’d like to think I have it together on occasion, I don’t. Without Christ I am a train wreck. My need for Him is as large as the need of the widow, those without clothes or food, and the orphan. I need Christ…desperately.

But, here’s the beautiful thing…
Jesus longs to meet our needs.
Jesus is our groom.
Jesus clothes us.
Jesus is the daily bread for each of us.
And Jesus has adopted us.

That last one is the one that has impacted me the most. My need for a savior is so huge. It’s like a newborn that can’t do anything for themself & who has no mom or dad, or an older child who’s been hurt, abused & who has gone without love & care. And, Christ adopted me.

But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir. Galatians 4:4-7

In my need & in my weakness, Jesus Christ chose me. He redeemed me from my need & adopted me into His family. He made me His daughter, His beloved. He put the Spirit of Christ inside me and that Spirit cries Abba! Daddy! Father! And, because I am His child, God made me an heir.

Today, in spite of my weaknesses, in spite of my need, I can rest in the fact that I am an heir of God’s goodness. His unconditional love, His grace, His home for me in heaven, His peace, His strength and so much more, is mine.

…and it is also yours.
Jen

Day 12: Afraid to Fail?

2011-04-14T20:52:00.002-05:00

Well we are past the halfway point, and frankly I’m feeling pretty good. Not about myself or my own spirituality, but about living life on purpose. The thing that I love about doing a fast is that it is like hitting the “reset” button on my life and appetites.

We focus quite a bit on the food aspect over these 21 days, but honestly, this time wouldn’t have been nearly as impactful in my life if I hadn’t given up other activities. The fasting of food creates a hunger meant to parallel the spiritual, while fasting other activities creates the room for that spiritual hunger to be satisfied.

So if you’ve been focusing on food, consider adding (or subtracting) something that requires your time, let it go… and finish strong!

So many of the daily devotionals have been so on point with my life, and this morning’s was no exception. I have been wrestling with failure lately. Not a specific personal failure, but with the idea of failure.

I am in the process of making some changes in my life, and I am not sure how it will turn out. Failure looms, complete with those internal voices screaming that it will turn out like all the rest, with regret, and unfulfilled dreams. I often let these voices beat me down.

But there is another voice, that doesn’t yell, but calmly and confidently asks:

“So what if you do? Why are you so afraid? Why are you unwilling to fail?”

Everyone has their reasons, and I certainly have a long list of my own, but, I am certain that this is not faith.

The Bible is full of people who failed in epic fashion.

Peter… well, where do we start?

Paul’s life, though undoubtedly adorned with all the trimmings of worldly success, was really a failure prior to the Damascus road. Even then, we see him fail in his relationship with Barnabas, yet God didn’t leave him.

Have you ever really read the genealogies of Jesus? I used to skip their monotony until I noticed how they were filled with liars and cheaters, adulterers, prostitutes, murderers, and other failures. What a list of redemption!

Why does God do things this way? Because he uses the foolish things of this world, and in us (1 Cor. 1:27), and makes them work together for his good (Rom. 8:28).

Our society places such a high price on failure, and “punishes” severely for it. We let failure label us, when God meant it to teach.

Think about Edison, 10,000 tries until he succeeded. He didn’t quit, he let each try teach him how not to make a light bulb, and set to it again.

So as this fast makes the turn, and moves towards its final week, have you failed? In whose eyes?

When failure comes again, what will you let it say about you, and God’s plan for your life?

Will you disqualify yourself? Or will you learn, and move on.

~Tadd

Day 11: Gaining Strength

2011-04-13T20:11:00.002-05:00

The hunger pains have gotten better. My strength and energy have been returning.

And yet, I know it is not because of anything I am doing.

No caffeine, no meat, no sugar - I'm not relying on these things to give me any energy.

God has taken me into a weak place through this fast and then fulfilled His promise...

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” ~2 Corinthians 12:9

Our weak places are unique, but God uses each of those to show His strength in a new and personal way to us.

And we'd love to hear YOUR stories - how has God's strength shown up in your weaknesses during this fast?

It's easy to leave a comment and it can be anonymous if you prefer! This is a place of community so feel free to share!

Day 10: More!

2011-04-12T21:21:00.002-05:00

I was up late last night reading, and this line stood out from all the rest in a way that I knew I needed to pay attention.

“As we spend time with God not only do we become more like him, but our capacity for him increases.”

I immediately felt God drawing me to increase my capacity for him, by gently letting me know that my desire for him is far too often cast off to the fringes of a busy life.

It happened again in the midst of my morning commute, everything seemed to fade away as the chorus playing in my car echoed through me “there’s so much more I can give.”

I know there is, God… I know. With these things rolling around on the inside of me, today’s devotional seemed so fitting, so like God. He never draws us without showing us the way we should come.

When we turn our lives over to God we are made holy, not because of our actions or motives, but because of our identification with Jesus. This happens in an instant. Sort of like the day I got married, one second I was single, the next married. Nothing about me really changed. This act of getting married didn’t make me a good husband, any more than becoming a Christian means I talk and act like Jesus. Both are a process, and you should expect both to take effort.

Living together these 12 years have progressively brought my wife and I closer together, made us more like each other. It’s a natural result of living and sharing so much together. Our being married happened in an instant, but our becoming “one” takes a lifetime.

This is the essence of today’s devotional from Pastor Mike, dwelling with the Lord makes all the difference. We are saved in an instant, but the process to becoming “one” with him also takes a lifetime.

Fasting is one way we purpose to “dwell” with God, not just to get a little closer to him for a time, but to make us aware of our need to make it a lifestyle. Fasting shows that at least some of what we are spending our lives on is extraneous, and can be limited, or eliminated completely.

We come face to face with the fact that we can do better, that there is “so much more we can give.” As we give more of our time and energy to fasting, prayer, reading the Bible, or other activities that make room for him, we are becoming more like him and our capacity for him increases.

I pray Lord, that as we fast these 21 days, you would use this time as a launching pad to draw us into a lifetime of “dwelling” with you.

~Tadd

Day 9: A New Song Rising Up

2011-04-11T19:38:00.002-05:00

There’s a song that’s been kind of a theme song for my husband and I for the past few months. We’ve probably played it in our cars & house no fewer than 853,211 times. It’s by Shane & Shane and it’s called “Turn Down the Music.”

We’ve been obsessed with this song because it puts to music the things God has been challenging us with over the last year - putting our faith into action, giving generously, loving the poor, the orphan, and the widow and asking God to open our eyes to see as He sees.

Last week I searched You Tube for this song and found a video someone put together that includes Shane & Shane explaining the story behind the song and it’s only made me love the song more. I hope it blesses you as well…

The lyrics of the song reflect Isaiah 58. They also contain some things that have really stuck with me from Nathan’s sermon yesterday…
• Turn down the noise & get alone with God
• Pray God would help us overcome indifference & open our eyes to His heart

For me, the words of the song have become a prayer that I’m praying for myself & for each person in our church…
Turn down the music
Turn down the noise
Turn up your voice oh God
Let us hear the sound
Of people broken
Willing to love
Give us your heart oh God
A new song rising up.

I want this fast to change me. I want it to result in my life being a new song – a song that blesses God because I’m living out my love for Him in ways that change other people’s lives.

I hope today you’ll pray these things with me…
1. Lord, break my heart for the world around me that’s hurting, broken, and hopeless.
2. Make me willing to love in new ways.
3. God, let your heart become my heart.
4. Let the way I live my life be a new song that rises up to bless you, Lord.

Jen

Onion Breath

2011-04-11T11:25:00.010-05:00

I, most likely, have onion breath and green cilantro stuck in my teeth. But, I don't care. I'm in love with Black Bean Salsa. It's a recipe I've made for years now & it's so delicious.

Eating something I ate before the fast has been comforting. That's why I'm throwing in an extra post today (I'll post some thoughts later today). Here's the recipe that's a favorite at our house. A friend from church asked me to share it after her connect group enjoyed this snack at their meeting this week.

Black Bean Salsa

Combine the following & let sit overnight...

2 (16 oz) cans black beans (rinsed & drained)

1 can whole kernal corn (drained)

2 large tomatoes (chopped)

1 large avocado (chopped)

1 purple onion (chopped)

1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)

3-4 T. lime juice

2 T. olive oil

1 T. red wine vinegar

1 t. salt

1/2 t. pepper

Enjoy! You'll get addicted. It's wonderful. We've been baking our own whole wheat tortillas into chips, using Matzos crackers (Trader Joe's) or just filling a tortilla up with it and eating it like a burrito.

Oh, and by the way...beware that you'll have onion breath & cilantro in your teeth. :)

Jen

Day 8: All Alone

2011-04-10T20:54:00.003-05:00

Did you hear Pastor Nathan's sermon today?!

Please tell me you did, and if not, make sure you get it on podcast when it is posted here because it was GOOD.

His challenge to each of us this week:

Get ALONE with God - no TV, music, coffee shop, nothing - and only take a pen and paper. Not even your Bible.

WHAT?! Don't take my Bible for alone time with God?!

But in all reality, I do need some time just to let Him speak, and while that can be through His Word, it doesn't have to be.

I don't get a lot of quiet time around here with two young boys, but I knew as soon as Pastor Nathan spoke it that I needed that kind of quiet time. And there is no better time to start this than during the fast.

When we fast for the right reasons, when our hearts are in the right place, God uses that time to soften our hearts and open our ears to Him.

Along with praying for attendance and souls saved at Easter services, I continue to pray for guidance and wisdom in raising our two boys and I know I could use clear words in this area from Him. Every day!

When was the last time you were ALONE with God? I'm making a date this week...

~Erin

Day 7: Food, Glorious Food

2011-04-09T20:55:00.003-05:00

It's hard not to focus on the food.

Such is our life in America, and we don't realize it so much until we take that food away.

We're one week in now. If you're doing the Daniel Fast or any other food fast, you may have experienced the headaches and weakness already. About now, you're getting frustrated with what you CAN'T eat.

That's where we need to make it easier on ourselves. Not the fasting, but providing nourishment to our bodies so we can function.

One of the main concerns in doing the Daniel Fast is that so many convenience foods are not allowed, so you may spend significantly more time preparing food or researching recipes.

So how can we take this focus off food and put it back on Him?

How about praying while you prepare that food? Use that time to soak in His presence, as Danette mentioned in her devotional today, or to seek His will for that day. Chopping veggies and waiting for water to boil are great mindless activities that could be filled with prayer or worship instead of nothing!

Also, taking time at the beginning of your week to prepare and portion out some fast-friendly snacks will help you as the week goes on. I like to make sure I have some nuts and dried fruit on hand to grab for a quick, filling snack in the middle of the morning or afternoon.

This fast should NOT be about the food, but when you are doing something completely out of the ordinary, this is much easier said than done.

Continue to seek Him more than you seek new recipes and He will give you the strength to carry on...

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. ~Philippians 4:13 (NLT)

~Erin

Day 6: Light in the Darkness

2011-04-08T09:00:00.009-05:00

6 days in and I'm feeling like 21 days is an eternity...but that's ok. I'm longing to grow, to change, and to see what God will do.

I'm sure we all have a list of things we're praying about during this fast...
Are you seeking healing?
Are you waiting for God to hear your cry for help?
Are you waiting for an answer from God?
Are you seeking his presence...wanting Him to say, "Here am I?"
Are you wanting to be a light in the darkness?

All of this is beautifully wrapped up in Isaiah 58. Check it out...

Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter - when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk, and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. Isaiah 58:6-10 NIV

Those four verses are packed full of amazing promises...and how did those things happen? By choosing to sacrifice. By letting go of focusing on myself. By choosing to love & serve others. I'm so challenged by this...

As we serve others & love people in practical ways, God can unleash His presence in our lives. He can pour out light in the darkness. He can bring healing.

Ask God how you can love & serve someone today & see what He will do in you & through you!
Jen

Day 5: Straining

2011-04-07T20:45:00.002-05:00

As I have talked with people who are doing the Daniel Fast, I have encountered people who are being extremely strict and those who are not. I, for one, am not following what I did last year. With my schedule this time, a lack of coffee and the 3 day headache that comes with it were not an option. So know yourself and your life, do your best to honor God with your choices, and remember the point is to make room for him.

One man's faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him. Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand. One man considers one day more sacred than another; another man considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind. ~Romans 14:2-5

I want to confess something: writing like this takes me a long time. Even in the simplest of e-mails, I agonize over word choice and inflection. I read and rehearse over and over to make sure what I’m writing comes across as I intend. I have even been known to write a full letter to someone with whom I am scheduled to have a face to face, so I am sure to think through all the points I want to make.

Why?

Because my words matter, not only to the recipient, but also to me.

Is there something in your life that you’re sure to take that much time and effort with? It may be trivial, it may be really important, but whatever it is has your complete attention.

I have one particularly close friend who is so intent in the way he butters his bread that it always makes me laugh! For others it may be the details of a business presentation or the stitching at the corner of a quilt.

If our focus on these things, which in the light of eternity matter so little, is so great, imagine the intensity of God’s intentions toward you, his eternal creation.

As we fast over these 21 days, what we abstain from symbolizes our letting go of the things which leave us straining to see him and know who he is.

So as our strain eases…

And clarity comes…

We see his smiling face, intently staring back.

Tadd

Day 4: Small Victory

2011-04-06T19:24:00.004-05:00

I was up at 5:30 this morning.

Yes, you read that right - 5:30 a.m.

Maybe that is not early for you, but normally I don't crawl out of bed until 7 am or whenever the kids do.

The thing is, I WANT to get up that early, but this flesh is super weak. Especially when it's cold outside and that comfy bed just won't let me go.

I consider this morning a small victory over that weak flesh, and I was rewarded with a full hour of time alone with God. No rushing through Scripture, no forgetting to pray for this or that. It was sweet, soaking-in time and I started my day filled.

And I think God left some marks on me during that time as well. Did you read Pastor Bruce's e-mail devotional today? I think this paragraph is worth reposting...

When we intentionally press in to God, it leaves a "God-mark" on you and in you, just like pressing a coin into putty leaves its mark! The going without, the limiting, the denial is worth the outcome! If we can come out with "God-marks" on our hearts and minds, we'll be better equipped to love as he loves, to see as he sees, to know as he knows.

In my time with Him this morning, the verses that left a mark on me came from 1 John 3:

We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters. If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.

And isn't that loving as he loves?

I love when God speaks the same message through many different avenues.

Blessings,
Erin

What marks has He left on you in the first few days of this fast?

Day 3: What Do You See?

2011-04-05T20:16:00.002-05:00

Here we are on day three, and the hunger pains are either at their peak, or maybe just beginning to subside a little. It’s always about day 3 that my body starts to adjust, as if to say “So you’re really going to go through with this?! Okay (sigh).”

On days 1 & 2 my prayers usually consist of “God please don’t let me come across any more beautiful chocolate chip cookies today, that was torture!” But on day 3 a little bit of a rhythm begins. So if this is your first time, and you’re struggling, be encouraged.

If you’re like me, you are coming into this Daniel Fast and life is a blur. The Daniel Fast may just seem like one more thing. Are you asking, “God, do I really have to add being hungry to my list of things to do today?!”

The pace of our lives can feel overwhelming at times, and changing what you consume so dramatically only adds fuel to the fire. It’s tempting to focus on those feelings, and miss what lies beneath the surface of our discomfort. So many of the challenges we face are a matter of perspective, and it is here that I believe God wants to work (at least in me).

It’s a retraining of sorts really, which is like me telling you to not think about an elephant.

What image do you see?

An elephant of course.

When challenges come, what image are you in the habit of seeing? When you feel the ache of refraining from certain foods, what is your focus? When the elephant comes trampling through your head, God wants to be the image that you see.

It was somewhere about day 3 during last year’s Daniel Fast that I remember the fog lifting a little, and things start to come into focus. Fasting is a process I submit to so God can change the picture I see when trouble comes.

Fasting is a self imposed trial in a way, through which we chose not to focus on our lack or discomfort, but on his goodness and grace.

So as the avalanche of responsibility has come tumbling down around me this week, there is a focus that belies my lack of sleep, there is a patience that disregards my limited time, and there is an image forming on the inside which gives me strength.

Tadd

Day 2: True Fasting

2011-04-04T21:50:00.001-05:00

Day 2 of my first Daniel Fast.

I've read a bit to learn the whats & whys of a Daniel fast. In Daniel 1:12 Daniel requests, "Give us nothing but vegetables (the original word that we translate "vegetables" meant things that come from the seeds) and water to drink."

I've decided if Daniel were in my shoes today he'd add cold medicine to that list. And so begins my fast: veggies, whole grains, fruit...and a side of cold medicine.

On day 1, I already started dreaming of food...pizza & chocolate cookies to be exact. I know I'm a food lover, but I had no idea how many times a day I think of food. It's relentless. I'm doing my best to turn each thought of food into a prayer...for God's presence, His blessings on our church, for just plain more of Him and less of me.

A month ago, when I heard about the fast, I came across a passage that I felt like God wanted me to focus on during these 21 days. It's Isaiah 58 and it's titled "True Fasting." I've been reading it over & over again. There are so many good things in there to dwell on. I love the way the notes at the bottom of my Life Application Study Bible sum it up...

"...Fasting can be beneficial spiritually and physically, but at it's best fasting helps only the person doing it. God says he wants our serivce to go beyond our own personal growth to acts of kindness, charity, justice, and generosity. True fasting is more than what we don't eat; it is pleasing God by applying his Word to our society."

I love that.

As much as I want to be personally changed during this fast and as much as I want God to pour out wisdom, direction & spiritual growth in my life, I also want to see God work through me to reach the world...to love the world...to change the world for His glory.

God, use this fast to open our eyes to the world around us. Use our lives and our faith to love the hurting in ways we never have. Use our hands to help those who need your help. Use us to pour out more of who you are into people that are desperate for hope. Bring opportunities into our daily paths to put our love for you into action.

Time for more cold medicine & a banana ...
Jen

Day 1: Hungry, Hungry, Hungry!

2011-04-03T17:07:00.003-05:00

***Before you start reading these personal reflections from three different Christ's Place attendees participating in the 21 Day Fast, make sure you sign up for the e-mail devotional that will be sent out every morning! You can sign up and find more fast resources here.***

I feel like a "veteran" (using the word very lightly) at this Daniel Fast thing, only because I did it last year as well.

And I thought that would make this year easier.

Yep, I was wrong.

But I suppose if it was easy, I would miss the whole point of fasting - making a SACRIFICE to put more attention on God and depending on Him to meet my needs.

One of those needs today: hunger.

I found a lot of foods I enjoyed on the Daniel Fast last year, so I felt somewhat prepared. But even with all that fast-friendly food around, I was still hungry.

How often am I that hungry for HIM?

About the time I was feeling very frustrated - and getting a little crabby, to be honest - I received today's e-mail devotional from the church. Two lines really spoke to me...

The only expectations that really matter are the ones that God has for us. He asks us to live by faith and trust Him to take care of details.

I am hungry to know what He has for me. I know this fast will help me to walk more in faith and trust Him for EVERYTHING, including satisfying any hunger I may encounter.

*****

And on that note, a few of the things we ate and enjoyed today...

Baked Oatmeal
Celery and natural peanut butter ($1.79 at Trader Joe's - GREAT price)
Unsweetened dried pineapple (Trader Joe's)
Asparagus-Mushroom Saute with brown rice
Raspberry-Mango "Ice Cream"

*****

How was Day 1 for you?

You are welcome to share what you are fasting this year and how God is speaking to you in the comment section on each post as we journey together!

Blessings,
Erin

In case you need a laugh...

2011-03-28T21:57:00.001-05:00

Preparing Physically for the Fast

2011-03-24T16:18:00.003-05:00

We are less than a week from starting this year's fast leading up to Easter Sunday. Many of you will be choosing to do the Daniel Fast, but there are several other choices as well!

If you ARE preparing to some type of food fast, especially the Daniel Fast, it is SO important to prepare yourself for ahead of time. I did NOT do this very well last year and the first several days were quite miserable!

So a few things to consider leading up to the Daniel Fast...

*Start drinking more water now! This will help your body adjust to all the of the fruits and vegetables you will be eating and will help you gradually cut out the more sugary drinks we tend to consume.

*Gradually cut out any sweeteners throughout the next week. I suffered from sugar withdrawl headaches last year from going cold turkey - not fun!

*Check out grocery stores now to find Daniel Fast friendly food. And start reading labels now! Places like Trader Joe's are making it easier and less expensive to buy healthy, natural foods! I will be posting more about this as we go.

*Explore books and websites about the Daniel Fast. There are more and more resources to help with the Daniel Fast all the time. I highly recommend The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast by Kristen Feola as well as her blog, The Ultimate Daniel Fast.

*Try a few recipes ahead of time. Smoothies, soups and salads are great foods to experiment with now since they will become a lot of your meals during the fast. Also try to make some staples ahead of time to lighten your load once the fast starts. Make a large batch of brown rice and freeze in smaller portion sizes. Make and freeze a soup in portion sizes for busy meal times.

Have you done the Daniel Fast before? How did you prepare? Would you have done anything differently?

So blessed to be on this journey together!

Day 21: The Finish Line

2010-04-03T21:00:00.000-05:00

And we're done!

Wow, what a life-chaging three weeks!

I'm not sure how I feel about going back to eating "regular" food tomorrow - excited but also nervous about what "regular" food will do to me!

I do know this - God has changed a lot for me.

I really feel I got the direction I was looking for, but I got so much more.

Learning to overcome the flesh, making more time for Him, being more in tune with what He wants for my life, a greater hunger for the Word.

All amazing things - and TOTALLY worth giving up "choice food" for 21 days.

What did God do in your life during the last 21 days? Would love to hear your fast stories!

Thanks for following this journey and your kind comments! So wonderful to be doing this "together!" I was so blessed!

Day 20

2010-04-02T21:49:00.002-05:00

I can't stop thinking about the torn veil today.

Lots of emotion swirling around in me today - almost to the point I didn't feel like eating at all. God is really stirring in my heart.

Yes, because of the cross, and the blood shed, and God's love for us.

But this year, the torn veil is really getting to me...

And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit.
At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. ~Matthew 27:50-51

The veil that separated the people from the Holy of Holies was no more.

The curtain was torn in two and we were allowed to enter the Holy of Holies.

We were welcomed into relationship with Him.

I am weeping and celebrating because of this and what He is doing in my heart this Easter weekend.

Oh, how He loves us...

Day 19

2010-04-01T22:31:00.002-05:00

You know, I really didn't think I could do this fast.

I knew God wanted me to and that His strength would get me through it, but I did not think I could last 21 days. Faith in Him - yes; in myself - no way.

But just like today's devotional said, it is only by His power.

I have experienced some amazing physical benefits from this fast - realizing I can do without sugar and that I don't need to have meat at every meal - but none as powerful as the spiritual change.

There really is nothing like denying your flesh to bring you closer to the One who gave up EVERYTHING for you.

And that's how I've gotten through this - in His power.

Day 17 & 18

2010-03-31T10:18:00.002-05:00

Wouldn't you know - I've been eating healthier than I ever have before and now I'm sick.

Bummer.

So not much writing yesterday or today, except for the verse from today's devotional, which is one of my favorites AND a song to help you remember it - even my four-year-old has it memorized!

Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God's peace, which goes beyond anything we can imagine, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

Day 16

2010-03-29T22:30:00.001-05:00

As I sat down to write this post, all I could think about was the bridge to one of my favorite worship songs....

For all the sons and daughters who are walking in the darkness
You are calling us to lead them back to You
And we'll see your Spirit rising as the lost come out of hiding
Every heart will see this hope we have in You

He is calling US to lead the lost back to Him - it's not just for the pastors or the evangelists - it is for US. All of us.

Wow, I needed that reminder as I have been hesitant to invite people to Easter services. And for no real reason except laziness.

He is calling and I better answer.

P.S. I can't WAIT to see His Spirit rising :)

Day 15

2010-03-28T21:32:00.002-05:00

I experienced tofu for the first time today - mixed in a smoothie. Couldn't even really tell it was there. I consider that a good thing.

I felt very tempted today in the food area - scrambled eggs, bacon, hot dogs and yes, the jellybeans AGAIN. But today's devotional brought me back to my whole focus of this fast.

Direction from God.

I need to keep my mind focused on Him and His direction for me, not the smell of bacon still wafting through my house.

Tomorrow starts my new daily schedule - early to rise for time with Him. When I think about the actual time I will be getting up, I cringe. But when I think about what I will be doing, I know it will be worth it.

Just praying for the strength to follow through.

Day 14

2010-03-27T22:30:00.002-05:00

Today's devotional really made me think.

In what areas do I need to pray and ask for God's favor?

I haven't really exercised that form of prayer much in the past, but as I thought about it today, I could definitely think of areas of my life in which I need God's favor.

And I began praying for God's favor for the church. Not just our church, but all churches that are preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ. And especially here in our community - that God would grant us favor as we try to reach out and share His love - and particularly this Easter, the hope we have because of what He did on the cross.

As I am praying to see souls saved this Easter, I am also praying for favor for those who are inviting friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, etc. to Easter services.

Only a week left in this 21 day fast - what has God been doing in your life during this time? Share with us here!

Day 13

2010-03-26T22:26:00.002-05:00

Carving out more time with God in my day.

Always a goal of mine, but especially during this time of fasting.

I read a blog post a few days ago that referenced Ephesians 5:16:

"making the most of every opportunity because the days are evil."

In the King James version, it says "redeeming the time."

I was so encouraged by what the blog author wrote about "redeeming the time" by spending time with Him at the beginning of each day - preparing for battle, if you will. Taking back our day from the enemy before it has even started.

So I'm "redeeming the time" by purposing to START each day with time with Him. I've tried it other ways. They don't work for me. I need the battle prep first thing in the morning. I need to be filled with the Lord's strength from the time I wake up.

Because the days are evil - but the Lord is good. And the victory is His.

Day 12: DESSERT!!!

2010-03-25T22:17:00.002-05:00

Today was my birthday.

This morning, my son asked me if we were going to have birthday cake.

Sadly, no, son. But I decided I did need something for dessert on my birthday. Then I remembered a recipe the lovely Susan Berke shared with me.

I made it. I ate it. I LOVED IT.

I would even eat these if I wasn't fasting, but just to be sure, I tried them out on a friend - she was a big fan as well.

So here it is, my Daniel Fast birthday dessert...

Lemon Treats
Recipe courtesy of Whole Foods

Makes about 18

Ingredients
1 cup chopped pitted dates
1 cup raw walnuts
1 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest
1/2 cup unsweetened dried coconut flakes

Directions
Place dates, walnuts, sesame seeds, lemon juice and zest in a food processor. Pulse and blend until completely mixed. The mixture will be slightly sticky. With dampened hands, roll tablespoons of the mixture into balls. Roll in coconut and chill until ready to serve.

Thank you for sharing Susan!

Day 11

2010-03-24T22:46:00.003-05:00

I rejoiced just a little today as I realized we're halfway through!

But I also love the place I'm in right now - putting Him above my earthly desires. It really is an amazing experience. I thought it would be limiting, but it has been the exact opposite. He is reshaping the way I think: about Him, about me, about my surroundings and everything I am blessed with. Both inside and outside, I'm still a work in progress, but I feel Him working.

Today's devotion about prayer was followed up by several people asking for prayer requests. I found myself praying with the picture of God on the move in my head. That visual from Scripture was so powerful to me and changed the way I prayed - knowing He was working right away, even if the results aren't seen immediately.

It is beautiful place to be, knowing He is in control - because I am letting Him be - and is listening to our every prayer.

This is my prayer tonight...

Day 10

2010-03-23T22:21:00.002-05:00

This morning's devotion was about fully surrendering to God.

I thought about it as I was getting ready this morning and I couldn't get a certain hymn out of my head.

Have you ever heard the story of Horatio Spafford?

He was a successful lawyer and devoted Christian in the mid-1800s. He and his wife had five children and lived in Chicago. Much of their investments were lost in the Chicago fire and their son died shortly before.

Horatio planned a vacation to England for his family to get some reat and to assist D.L. Moody with his work. At the last minute, he was unable to set sail with his wife and four daughters, but he promised to meet them soon.

But well into their journey, their ship was hit and Horatio soon received a cable from his wife that read "Saved alone."

As Horatio traveled across the ocean to meet his wife, the same ocean where his four daughters drowned, he wrote the words to "It Is Well With My Soul."

To me, the words are words of complete surrender and trust in our Creator - no matter what is going on around us - and they were with me all day...

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Refrain:
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

But, Lord, ’tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!
Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul!

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Day 9

2010-03-22T22:20:00.002-05:00

Now when I said the food part was getting "easier," that was my good attitude speaking :)

In reality, I am still craving meat and fast food and those jellybeans!

I had to fight myself passing a Sonic today - come on, I had a yummy salad waiting at home! Wouldn't want to miss that! Ha!

But I am getting creative and stepping out of my comfort zone. The recipes in the packet from church have been fantastic!

My two latest favorites were the Apple Pear Cinnamon Smoothie and the Texas Caviar.

And I don't even like black-eyed peas at all - or beans of any sort.

No, there are not any black-eyed peas in the smoothie - just the caviar :)

I also got a book with a bunch of raw food recipes this weekend that are perfect for this fast. Today I made a Sweet Cashew Drizzle to use as a fruit dip or to drizzle over museli. Just cashews and 100% orange juice and a little salt! It is yummy - my toddler even ate a spoonful of it!

Speaking of which, I have only been drinking water during this fast and had been for several days when I poured myself a glass of water at breakfast. My older son looked at me strangely and said, "Mommy we don't have water for breakfast, we have apple juice!" Apparently, I wasn't following the "rules." But it gave me a chance to talk to him about why I was doing this. Love how their minds work!

How is this fast stretching you? Any recipes you've loved or foods you've discovered you like? Please share!

Day 8

2010-03-21T23:11:00.003-05:00

SIMPLIFY.

That is what I've been hearing from God thus far in this fast.

In many different ways. In different areas of my life. I need - and want - to simplify. I even mentioned this on Day 2.

The food is just the beginning, but I had a moment this morning. I was eating some cantaloupe - and quite enjoying it - and I wondered why I haven't eat like this before. So healthy and so yummy!

And then I wonder about other areas of life. As I simplify in one area, I think "Why haven't I always done it this way?"

And simplicity in my life makes more room for God to speak and move.

I am so thankful for this weeding out process.

Day 7

2010-03-20T22:38:00.003-05:00

I made it through 7 days of this?!

Miraculous, I tell you.

I don't think I've ever really stuck to a diet for seven days, so I know this is a God thing.

But not in the way I was thinking. My ideas for this fast involved lots of extra time in the Word and intense times of prayer. And while, I have been reading from the Word and praying every day (intense prayer when the hunger hits!), I think God is teaching me something else.

Sacrifice.

Nothing I could ever do could match His sacrifice, but that's not the point. The point is that each of us is denying our flesh in some way to allow God to work in mighty way in the spiritual realm. And THAT has been a powerful thing for me.

Yes, it has been uncomfortable, difficult, even annoying.

But after only 7 days, it feels life-changing to deny myself in this way for a higher purpose.

Day 6

2010-03-19T23:44:00.002-05:00

"Pray for God's Spirit to help you stay on track with your fast this weekend..."

Oh yeah, His Spirit was definitely helping me tonight.

Otherwise, I would have been scarfing down a giant chocolate chip cookie and ice cream at Old Chicago instead of the plate of raw veggies I actually ate.

"Instead of relying on our own strength, learn to surrender to and lean on the Holy Spirit."

As this fast progresses, the daily thoughts about food are dwindling. But the temptations are growing as well.

That cookie and ice cream.

The meat sauce I made for the rest of the family's pasta.

Those darn jellybeans that are now open.

In those moments, I KNOW it is not my own will power allowing me to pass those up. I've got that internal battle described in Romans 7:18-20, but my mindset is now not on me.

Reigning in the flesh. Relying on God.

Day 5

2010-03-18T23:30:00.001-05:00

Today was good.

Except for the part where I watched friends eat chocolate fondue.

Other than that, it was good. And I survived :)

I really resonated with today's devotional. I have not been as hungry for food or frantic about planning it, but I have definitely been hungry for more of God's Word.

As I pray and fast for direction, God has led me to study Proverbs. What better place to find wisdom that should be hidden in our hearts, to guide us in important decisions and relationships? Already, I have seen Him speaking to me through the first few chapters. About listening - listening attentively to Him and to those He has carefully and intentionally put in our lives.

That spiritual food sure is filling.

Spectacular Smoothies

2010-03-18T12:58:00.005-05:00

Smoothies are the way to go during this fast! Thought I would share some of my favorites with you!

For all recipes, combine the ingredients in the blender and blend until desired consistency is acheived.

Berry Banana Smoothie (from the packet)
1 large whole banana
1 cup frozen blueberries
15 medium strawberries (fresh or frozen)
2 cups orange juice

Orange-Pineapple-Banana Smoothie (also from the packet)
1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
1 frozen, sliced banana (slice, then freeze - trust me)
1 cup frozen pineapple
Water (optional - for consistency)

Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie (from book, The Daniel Fast)
1 cup unsweetened soy milk
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 banana, broken into chunks
14 frozen strawberries
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 Tbsp apple or pineapple juice

Tomorrow: giving the Apple Pear Cinnamon Smoothie from the packet a try!

Day 4

2010-03-17T22:42:00.003-05:00

Finally had a day where I didn't completely obsess about what I was going to eat!

Thank you Lord.

The time spent on meal planning is now reserved for God.

Only one problem - what was I focusing this time of fasting on again?

You see, once I sat down for one-on-one time with Him, my focus was totally lost. I wanted to read Acts and learn more about the early church. I wanted to read through Daniel. I wanted to look through several translations of Matthew 17.

Focus gone.

But tonight totally brought me back. A great message, worship that spoke right to my heart, complete honesty with my Savior...and the focus reappeared.

The focus on Him. On the direction He wants me to go. On His will for my life.

No one said this fast would be easy, but I like what He is doing.

Day 3

2010-03-16T20:22:00.006-05:00

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 :)

Day 2

2010-03-15T21:38:00.002-05:00

I don't think I ever realized how much I eat - and like to eat - until I started fasting!

As a stay-at-home mom, I can usually eat whatever I want, whenever I want. I wouldn't consider myself an overeater, but when I'm hungry, I can choose anything in the house to eat. Including the jellybeans stashed in the cupboard right now (grr - Easter candy).

Today was rough in that respect. I was hungry most of the day. Many of the things I ate were not fulfilling. At least compared to what I normally eat.

I had to confront my flesh.

The hunger, the headaches - lots of thinking about poor me.

And realizing it's not about me.

There haven't been too many times in my life where I've intentionally denied myself like this, on this scale.

This denial of the flesh is making room for more of Him.

As I drove to meet a friend for lunch today (without my children - woohoo!), I had the radio on and suddenly felt the need to turn it off.

My mind went back to this morning's devotional - to "tuning in" to God's voice. To removing distractions. And I spent the rest of my time on the road, in the peace and quiet, just talking and listening to Him. Trying to surrender and hear Him better.

I had been warned that these first few days would be rough, and I'm feeling it. But I'm also seeing how God strips things away to show what is really important to Him, and for that I am so thankful.

I Need a Snack

2010-03-15T15:06:00.002-05:00

I have the mid-afternoon munchies and thought you might have them too, so here is recipe I just tried and loved! This is a great crunchy snack.

Disclaimer: I am NOT a bean lover at ALL. But I know I need my protein during this fast, so I'm giving them another shot. This recipe will help big time!

Roasted Chickpeas
Recipe from The Daniel Fast by Susan Gregory

4 cups canned or cooked chickpeas
1/2 tsp salt
4 Tbsp olive oil

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Drain and pat the chickpeas dry with paper towels. Mix the salt and oil together in a large bowl; add the chickpeas, and toss until well-coated.

Spread the chickpeas on heavy-weight baking sheets in a single layer.

Roast for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes, being careful not to burn the chickpeas.

The chickpeas are done when they are golden brown and completely dried with no chewy centers. If they are undone, roast longer, checking every 5 minutes and stirring.

Allow to cool and then store in an airtight container.

Day 1

2010-03-14T21:07:00.002-05:00

I did not prepare myself well physically for this fast.

As I sat in bed reading a book about the Daniel Fast last night, I came across a statement about tapering off sugar and drinking more water in the days leading up to the fast.

What did I have the day before? An Irish Mocha, pizza, and a huge meal at a steakhouse complete with a massive dessert. Whoops.

Despite what happened yesterday, my fast has started and it will be interesting.

I have been hungrier than normal, but I try to use those hunger pangs as a chance to ask God to fill me up with more of Him.

I spent some of the day trying to plan my meals and snacks for the week. This could easily consume more time than actual prayer and seeking God if I let it, like Pastor Nathan shared today. I read a quote from someone in the middle of their own Daniel Fast that is a reminder that I will carry with me through this 21 days:

If we spent as much time praying and seeking God as we do trying to make this fast taste good, imagine the REAL changes we would see.

While I want to find things that taste good during this time, that is NOT what this is about. Such a powerful statement.

To be honest, this was a rough day to find time to seek Him, but I know that without that time of daily prayer, this is just a really strict diet, not a fast. The spiritual component is a must to see lives saved and truly changed.

So thankful for the e-mail devotional that goes out every morning - a great way to focus at the start of my day. I appreciated Pastor Rick reminding us that fasting is not for "super-spiritual people" and that Jesus didn't say IF we fast, but WHEN we fast. This is for all of us and so are the miracles that will come out of it.

If you aren't receiving the daily e-mail devotional, make sure you head over here to sign up.

What am I doing?!

2010-03-14T17:11:00.002-05:00

When first approached about blogging my way through a fast, I was quite interested.

When the Daniel Fast was mentioned, however, I actually used the phrase, "I like food too much." I decided I would fast something else and chronicle my way through it.

I got home that day and listened to an online devotional where the speaker said something like this:

God did the biggest thing ever in the world by giving up His Son so that we could spend eternity with Him. Why wouldn't we want to do EVERYTHING we can to honor and glorify Him?

Ouch. Food is definitely not too big to give up to draw closer to Him.

God had already spoken to me once this year about possibly doing a Daniel Fast. I used the food excuse then - and probably a bit of fear rolled in there.

But it was pretty clear to me that now was the time He wanted me to enter into this spiritual discipline - both corporately and for personal guidance as well.

So here we go.

I will be posting at least once a day about my experiences fasting as a wife, mother and average person - trying to keep it real.

Hope you will join me!