BIBLICAL HISTORY FOR A DANIEL FAST
What is the Daniel Fast?
The Daniel Fast is a biblically based fast. It is a method of fasting that men, women, and young people all over the world are using to enter into the spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting.
There are two anchoring scriptures for the Daniel Fast. In Daniel chapter one, the Prophet ate only vegetables (that would include fruits) and drank only water. So from these scriptures we get two important guidelines for the fast:
1. Fruits and vegetables
2. Whole grains (beans, bread (no yeast))
3. Water
4. Some people include dairy (pray about it)
5. If you eat veggie burgers make sure to look at the ingredients.
Then in Daniel, chapter 10, we read that the Prophet ate no meat nor any "precious breads" or foods, and he drank no wine for 21 days. This scripture provides a couple more guidelines:
1. No sweeteners and no pastries, cakes, donuts etc.
2. Only whole grain bread without leaven was eaten.
3. No wine, juice with added sugar
Another important guideline is drawn from Jewish fasting principles, where no leaven is used during the fast. It is for this reason that yeast, baking powder, and similar items are not used for the Daniel Fast.
Finally, it can be concluded that no artificial sweeteners, processed foods, or chemicals should be consumed on the Daniel Fast.
To ensure the integrity of the fast, make sure to read the ingredients on labels.
BODY, SOUL, AND SPIRIT
The Bible teaches that man is a composite of body, soul, and spirit. During the fasting time, the focus is spiritual through fasting and prayer, which affects all three parts of our beinthe whole triune being.
The Body
As your diet changes, the body is affected. For some, this is very dramatic. Detoxing from caffeine, chemicals, and sugar will produce symptoms such as headaches, leg cramps, fatigue, and malaise. Most people lose weight during the Daniel Fast, and many report healings from diabetes, allergies, arthritis, and cancer.
The Soul
The soul is the seat of emotions, intellect, personality, conscience, soulish intuition, and will. The flesh realm craves the stimulation, producing frustration, anger, and happiness in the "soulish realm." During the fast the flesh is purged from toxins through the modified diet. As it re-aligns itself with God's design the Spirit becomes stronger. This has a powerful affect on the soul.
During the Daniel Fast, your soul may rebel against the dramatic change in diet. Experiencing and winning this battle over the flesh is often one of the most powerful lessons of the Daniel Fast.
The Spirit
The spirit is the part of man that must be "Born-again" at salvation. It is illuminated by the infilling of the Holy Spirit, which provides strength and direction for the spiritual journey. The Daniel Fast is a great opportunity to be trained and disciplined to yield to God's will. The goal is to take authority over the flesh. When the flesh "acts out" from cravings, the soul takes control. This is made possible by the communication of the spirit-man with God the Father, who Spirit.
During the fast, focus on prayer, study, and meditation of God's Word. Refrain from watching TV as much as possible. Limit radio and music -- even Christian! Take time for you and God.
What if you have health issues?
Fasting should never bring harm to the body. If you have concerns, consult your health professional before doing the Daniel Fast of making any major dietary changes.
The Daniel Fast is a very heathly way to eat! Health professionals will support this eating plan, but might suggest a few modifications if you have health issues that requires special attention.
RESOURCES
WEBSITES
INFORMATION
FOOD LIST
Recipes:
BOOKS
The Daniel Fast: Feed Your Soul; Strengthen Your Spirit and Renew Your Body Author: Susan Gregory
The Daniel Fast
Author: Annette Reeder
The Daniel Fast Cookbook