January 4, 2015- January 24, 2015

Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? Isaiah 58:6

Fasting along with prayer is our first-fruit offering to the Lord. It is our reasonable service, as we offer ourselves willing to the Lord as an offering of thanksgiving for bringing us from one year into a new year of expected blessings and great harvest. Fasting enables us to prepare ourselves spiritually as we deny our fleshly whims and desires (Isaiah 58:11). It causes us to slow down, to be still and to get centered. Fasting also helps our bodies to rest from the abundance of food and calories we intake daily. Often we fill up on empty calories and things that add no nutritional value to our health. Fasting allows our bodies to heal and gives us the opportunity to reset our nutritional habits. Fasting is good for us spiritually, physically and mentally. We think slower, so therefore we react slower (James 1:19). It gives us time to clear our mind. Fasting will break the bonds of demonic oppression (Isaiah 58:6), it brings clarity of thought when enjoined with prayer and meditation on God's Word; and it will help us to walk in peace (Isaiah 26:3). Fasting is the time to draw closer to God and to cry out to him in intercession for our nation and the church (Joel 2:15-17).

Instructions:

1. The fast begins Sunday, January 4th- it starts at 6 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. (Sundays only).
2. During the week and Saturdays- fast starts at 6 a.m. and ends at 6 p.m.
3. Menu: fish, chicken, and turkey meats. Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. No sweets- cookies, cakes, pies, etc.
4. Limit your salt intake. Limit your sugar intake- purchase items with 12g or less of sugar.
5. If you take medications please use wisdom. Take your meds! Eat a small snack to take your meds and resume the fast.
6. Drink fluids throughout the day- especially water.
7. Time is precious and valuable, spend it with the Lord. Limit your t.v. time. During the fast and throughout the year try to spend at least one hour in studying the Word of God, and one hour in prayer. It will be the best two hours of your day!