2025 Daniel Fast

Jan 5 - Jan 19

Fasting is a voluntary act of faith and devotion, serving as a physical expression of our spiritual commitments. It's a time to temporarily give up certain foods or meals to focus on prayer, reflection, and connection with God. We encourage members to participate as they feel called, with an emphasis on its spiritual benefits rather than physical deprivation.

Why do we fast?

Food Guidelines

Approved Foods

Beans and lentils. All types are permitted.

  • Nuts and seeds. All types are permitted, except those with added salt.

  • Fruits and vegetables. All types are permitted (fresh, frozen, dried, juiced, and canned). However, any dried fruit shouldn't
    contain added sugar (check ingredients to be sure).

  • Oils and fats. Only vegetable oils are allowed, and only in small amounts, such as to saute vegetables. Olive, avocado, peanut, coconut, grapeseed, canola, walnut, and sesame oil are all approved oils.

  • Whole grains. (Amaranth, barley, brown rice, buckwheat, bulgur, freekeh, millet, oats, purple rice, quinoa, rye,
    sorghum, spelt, teff, whole grain pasta, whole wheat, and wild rice).

  • Unleavened bread (whole grain bread made without yeast, sugars, or preservatives).

  • All herbs, spices, and seasonings are allowed, including salt and pepper

  • Beverages. Water should be your main beverage. Unsweetened plant beverages such as 100% fruit juice are permitted in moderation.

  • Vitamins and supplements. All are permitted as needed. If you use protein powders, they should be minimally processed and meet the diet’s guidelines.

  • Chicken. (Not fried)

  • Eggs

Foods to Avoid

  • Meat (bacon, beef, bison, lamb, pork, and turkey), dairy, (butter, cheese, cream, milk, and yogurt), fish/seafood.

  • Added sugar and artificial sweeteners (agave nectar, artificial sweeteners, brown rice syrup, brown sugar, cane juice, corn syrup, honey, malt syrup, molasses, and raw sugar).

  • Yeast, white flour and white rice. Only whole grains are allowed on the Daniel Fast. A whole grain product contains the entire grain kernel ― the bran, germ, and endosperm.

  • Processed foods. Any food that is heavily processed or contains added colors, flavors, or preservatives should be avoided. Processed foods include chips, candy, chocolate, premade meals, takeout, granola bars, and more.

  • Deep fried foods (i.e. corn chips, French fries, and potato chips - baked chips may be acceptable if they don't contain restricted ingredients. Check the label for "baked" to be sure).

  • Solid fats (butter, lard, margarine, and shortening).

  • Certain beverages. Alcohol, coffee, tea, kombucha, soda, and sugar-sweetened or caffeinated beverages should be avoided.

Entertainment Options:

  • Social Media (FB/Tiktok/Instagram/etc.)

  • Streaming (Youtube/Netflix/Hulu/Disney+/etc.)

  • Gaming

FAQS

  • Fasting is the practice of voluntarily abstaining from food, drink, or both for a period of time as a form of spiritual discipline. It's often used as a time for prayer, reflection, and seeking closer communion with God.

    The Bible presents fasting as a solemn act of worship and commitment to God. Throughout scripture, fasting is portrayed not just as a recommendation, but as an expectation for spiritual growth and dedication. From Moses to Jesus, figures in the Bible fasted to seek God's will, express repentance, and prepare for important tasks.

  • Most people can fast, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Children, pregnant or nursing women, and individuals with certain health conditions should not fast or should only do so under medical supervision.

  • Prepare both spiritually and physically. Spiritually, you might pray or set your intentions. Physically, you might gradually decrease food intake, hydrate well, and ensure you're not diving into a fast unprepared. Consult with a doctor if necessary.

  • In fasting, we set aside physical food to enrich our spiritual lives, turning to prayer, meditation, and scripture for nourishment. This dedicated time helps us reflect on our individual and collective roles in God's plan, seek strength against spiritual challenges, and think deeply about our personal growth and how we contribute to the harmony of our community. Fasting transcends personal devotion, embodying our shared commitment and unity in faith. It's a practice that brings us nearer to God and to one another, as we strive to fulfill His purpose for us.

    Feel free to consult any of our church leaders or your small group for more resources and guidance.

  • Listen to your body. If you feel unwell, dizzy, confused, or severely weak, it's important to stop fasting and consume water or food. Consult a healthcare professional if necessary.

  • Break your fast gently. Start with water or a small snack and gradually move to larger meals. Avoid overindulging immediately after fasting to prevent discomfort or digestive issues. Reflect on your fasting experience and continue your spiritual practices as you return to regular eating habits.