What is Daniel Fast?
Daniel fast is modelled after what Old Testament Prophet Daniel did when he was forced to serve a pagan king.
He “resolved” not to eat choice food and wine but decided to eat only vegetables and water to maintain his standard and find clarity in his purpose during a very pressured period of his time. It was certainly an unusual decision. But…
Bible records that they looked much better and healthier than all other officers after the fast.
Why We are Doing it
We are not doing it just because Daniel did it. But in this sensual age, we believe intentionally selecting what we consume will help us to re-orient our lifestyle based on our deepest convictions and find clarity in our purpose.
So during Daniel fast, we will abstain from meat, refined grain (wheat/rice), sugary desserts, caffeine and media for 21 days. But before you say “no way”…
The good news is, since you are still eating vegetables (sweet potato and potatoes are vegetables!) and water, you won’t feel as hungry compared to full fast and it has less impact on your daily routines.
What We Want out of Daniel Fast
Intimacy, Intimacy, Intimacy.
The goal of Daniel fast is “intimacy” with God.
There are some “side effects” of losing weight, and feeling healthier but the ultimate goal is to deepen our relationship with God, through God’s Word and prayer.
Media fast is not just to get 21 days of detox from technology, only to reengage with it the same way we did before.
Through the media fast, we seek to re-establish our relationship with technology and media.
It will allow us to find better ways to use them for the greater good of our soul, instead of getting enslaved and distracted by them.
You will realize how much time you had to do the things that you wanted to do based on your convictions and values.
What to eat and what to avoid
Eat
Fruit & Vegetables
Eg. Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Lettuce, Kale, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Corn, etc…
Water & Juice
Avoid
Meat & Fish
Refined Grains (Rice, Bread & Pasta)
Dairy Products
Sugar and sugary dessert.
Soda
Coffee/Caffeine
Alcohol products
Cigarette products
What To Do
Set aside a definite time and place to pray.
Seek the needy and help them by serving their needs.
Set a Bible reading plan during Daniel Fast.
For deeper reading, choose the CSB (Christian Standard Bible) version.
For faster reading, choose the NLT (New Living Translation) version.
What Not To Do
Media (Games, TV, Movies, streaming service, etc…)
Social Networking apps
*We encourage you to replace the above activities with reading the Bible and Prayer.
Daniel Fast Prayer Note
If you don’t already have one, we strongly encourage you to purchase a daily companion guide. It will help you stay focused on the Daniel Fast's “why” and its benefits.
What are other precautions?
Examine your health closely and adjust your fasting accordingly.
If you have a certain health condition, please consult with your doctor prior to fasting.
It may be harmful to your health if you restrict too much carbohydrates and proteins from your diet.
The purpose of the Daniel Fast is not to starve or suffer but to carve out time to focus on reading the Bible and praying to God.