When does the fast start?
Sunday, February 7, 2021 - after lunch.
When does the fast end?
Saturday, February 27, 2021 - after dinner.
Why do a church-wide fast?
There is power in unified prayer. As we participate in the fast as a corporate body, we are united in prayer for specific areas of focus. In Scripture, we see groups of people fasting for a unified purpose. The early church fasted while worshiping and committing their ministry to the Lord. They also sought the Lord through fasting for guidance and confirmation during the appointment of elders (Acts 13:2, 14:23).
What is the biblical definition of fasting?
Biblical fasting can be defined as abstaining from food for spiritual purposes. Simply going without food because it is not available or for medical reasons is not biblical fasting. There must be a spiritual motivation to qualify a fast as biblical.
What's the difference between "dieting" and "fasting?"
The main difference is the motivation. Dieting is changing your food intake for the purpose of becoming healthier physically. Fasting is abstaining from food to draw nearer to God and become healthier spiritually.
Should I feel guilty if I eat something that's not on the list?
Guilt or shame is never from the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gently convicts us but never condemns us. The purpose of fasting is not to follow a list of do’s and don’ts. The enemy loves to shift the focus of fasting from a biblical one where the focus is on God and drawing nearer to Him to a legalistic one where the focus is on our performance and how well we are keeping a diet. If you experience guilt or shame, simply surrender it to God. He knows your heart and is more concerned with your motivation than your performance.
What medicines am I allowed to take? And what about medicines known to contain caffeine?
You should continue to take all medications prescribed by your doctor. If you are able to take a replacement for Excedrin that does not have caffeine, we recommend doing that. However, if you are experiencing extreme migraines or symptoms in which you need to take Excedrin, do not let that be a deterrent for participating in the Daniel Fast. Make whatever modification is necessary to be healthy and safe.
What if I get sick on the fast?
If you get sick on the fast, getting well should be your first priority. The purpose of the fast is not to make anyone feel guilty. God sees your heart. Do what you need to do to get better. Rest often and hydrate. Bananas and vegetable broth might help. There is no shame in needing to eat crackers or drink some ginger ale if nothing else is working. However, many of us will experience detox symptoms which are similar to the symptoms of being sick. Do your best to listen to your body and listen to God’s leading.
Can I exercise on the fast?
Yes, but we recommend using caution. Modify your workouts to ensure you are not over-exerting yourself during the fast. If you are working out, it is important to make sure you are eating enough nutrients and protein to supplement. Monitor your health during workouts and if needed, consult with a medical professional.
How do I participate in the fast if I struggle with or have struggled with an eating disorder?
If you are currently struggling, you may want to seek the advice of a trained therapist or medical practitioner before beginning this fast. We would also encourage you to consider a modified version of the fast that is safe and healthy for you. Fast with a partner or your small group to ensure accountability.
Should I participate in the Daniel Fast if I'm pregnant?
We recommend consulting your doctor before participating in the Daniel Fast if you are pregnant. Keeping sources of protein in your diet and avoiding sudden dietary changes are important for a healthy pregnancy which might mean some serious modifications will need to be made in order for you to participate in the Daniel Fast.
What about prepared foods?
Read the labels of all prepared foods. Remember the Daniel Fast is sugar-free and chemical-free. So, if you use any canned fruits, vegetables, packaged foods or prepared sauces, you must read the label to be aware of the ingredients.
What about pasta?
Make sure the label says whole grain pasta with no additives (watch for sugar). Whole grain pasta offers 7 grams of protein per serving (3/4 cup of dried pasta).
I know it says raw, unsalted nuts, but what about roasted nuts?
The goal would be to stick to raw, unsalted nuts. But these are harder to find so in a pinch just make sure you get plain roasted, unsalted nuts with no preservatives.
How do I get enough protein in my diet while on the fast?
The following are protein-rich foods that are allowed on the Daniel Fast… almonds, sunflower seeds, lentils, beans, quinoa, brown rice, split peas, whole grains and tofu.
What kind of peanut butter is allowed?
A natural peanut butter with no additives…watch for sugars including molasses. Smucker’s creamy natural peanut butter has nothing but peanuts in it.
What about popcorn?
Corn is listed in the vegetables-to-eat list. You can use a pot on the stove…here is a recipe.
1) Put two tbsp. of olive oil in the bottom of a large pot.
2) Add enough popcorn to cover the bottom of the pan.
3) Turn heat to medium high. Look for the first popcorn kernel to pop.
4) Put the lid on the pot. Using potholders shake the pot over the burner.
5) Continue shaking until you no longer hear kernels popping. Remove from heat.
How can I identify whole grain foods?
Typically if the ingredient lists "whole wheat," "rolled oats," or "whole corn" as the first ingredient, the product is a whole grain food item. Another way to identify whole grains in the foods you eat is to look in the nutritional facts information and check if the food item contains dietary fiber. If it contains a significant amount, it most likely contains whole grains. "Wheat flour" is not a whole grain and therefore does not indicate a whole grain product.
What about salad dressing?
Most creamy salad dressings contain sugar and are off limits. Olive oil and lemon or lime is an option.
Do I need to eat organic foods while on the fast?
No, but it is suggested because organic foods are produced without the use of feed or fertilizer of plant or animal origin and without employment of chemically formulated fertilizers, growth stimulants, antibiotics, or pesticides.
Where can I go out to eat?
Well, we think you can go anywhere and order cautiously, asking lots of questions to the wait staff, knowing ahead of time that you may be ordering a salad with olive oil and a baked potato with no extras.
How much can I eat?
As long as they are included in the list of foods, we recommend eating until satisfied.
Should I avoid canned foods?
Yes, as much as possible due to the high sodium content. If available, sodium free or low sodium canned products and frozen foods are an alternative.
What is the best way to break the fast or re-introduce foods from which I abstained during the fast?
When reintroducing food, it is best to reintroduce foods one at a time. Add in meat, then on a different day or at least meal, add in dairy, etc. You can choose the order, but one at a time is best.
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