I am concerned about a trend that seems to be happening in the Daniel Fast genre. And it has to do with so much attention being put on recipes and cookbooks and what we can eat and what we can’t! The Daniel Fast is so much more than food! And when we keep our focus on the food, it seems it’s just another way to feed the flesh rather than denying it!
Don’t get me wrong, I know we need to have good recipes for the Daniel Fast. After all, this is a partial fast where some foods are restricted and other foods are allowed. But the Daniel Fast is not a plan to merely replace all the foods we enjoy eating all the time with a vegan variety!
With that said, I do believe God is using the Daniel Fast to bring more of His people into a healthy way of feeding the Temple of the Holy Spirit – a temple He has entrusted to our care. And with the health crisis in the United States and other countries in the world, it’s critical that we start eating good foods designed by the Creator for the bodies He created!
But I encourage all those who use the Daniel Fast as their method of fasting to examine your heart as you try to figure out ways to satisfy the flesh by going to great lengths to serve up some alternative.
Again, please don’t misunderstand me. I know we need good recipes. I know it’s okay for us to enjoy the food the Lord created for us. But I also know that we need to keep things in balance and not get our eyes so much on the food that we miss the purpose of fasting. It’s a spiritual experience where we put our whole beings under the submission of the Lord. And I do believe there is a danger in going too far in satisfying the flesh by focusing too much on food and missing out on the vital element of submission that a period of prayer and fasting employs.
Tonetta Reed said,
April 9, 2012 at 5:59 pm
You will love the Daniel fast and results at the end be wonderful.
Yanawn Johnson said,
March 24, 2012 at 10:33 am
I started the fast on March 15th and some people have said how they can see a difference in me: I’m brighter, happier and have a healthier outlook. The first few days were the hardest but I prayed for help and got it. Only 11 more days to go!
Dawn said,
March 24, 2012 at 8:58 am
I’m on day 2 of the twenty-one day fast. I stumbled upon this by picking up an issue of Woman’s World. I need to lose 40lbs and have been struggling. I measure everything, keep a food diary and workout three times a week. So this whole thing started being all about food and weight. As I looked on the internet for more information about the Daniel Fast I found this website. I purchased your book and I am so thankful to God for leading me to you!! You read my mind with this blog. I keep looking to find people talking about the struggle of letting go of the hunger and turning to God and their spiritual journey. But what I’m finding is all about what’s on the food list. I was a little disappointed. But as I judge others, I need to focus on my own journey and my goals. I hope I can focus and quiet my mind to hear the guidance of the holy spirit.
Diane said,
March 24, 2012 at 5:39 am
Susan, this is exactly what I am struggling with!!! Jesus help me to keep the focus OFF of the food and on the prayer and fasting!! I know I will do better next time…..too much emphasis on trying new recipes this time. I have 9 more days. I am going to try to deny my flesh more as I finish. Thanks so much for your wisdom on these topics. I very much appreciate your honesty.
Tonetta Reed said,
March 22, 2012 at 7:20 pm
You can make it. I will be praying for you.
Kim Allen said,
March 21, 2012 at 11:26 am
I agree with you! I have been on a radical nutritional journey since 2005, counting calories, weighing food, etc and have to intentionally work against my fleshly legalism about food (or lack thereof) so that it does not become an idol. It is great that so many people are excited about the “fast food” that they are enjoying recipes. But like Ann Voskamp says, in a fast, it’s not about the “empty” but what – WHO – is filling us! We put aside our desires to answer our bodies’ every “yes” to listen to God and say “yes” to Him! Blessed and blessed!!
Lenett said,
February 24, 2012 at 10:38 am
Greeting in the name of our Lord, I started this fast on the 22 of February, this is my first time doing the Daniel fast. I am really looking for a great breakthrough, not only for myself, but for my church and many family and friends. I am so excite about the out come of this fast, that God has already bless me with so much joy going through it. Lets all pray for each other as we have a greater desire to seek God’s will and plan. Matthew 18:19-Again I say to you,That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
Tonetta Reed said,
February 16, 2012 at 8:36 pm
I agree. The Daniel Fast is much more than recipes. But I did learned how to cook and ate foods I have never ate before. For the first time I went thru tthe whole 21 days.
Audrey said,
February 16, 2012 at 12:28 pm
Our whole church is going on the Daniel fast starting Feb 20. We are looking not only for a great move of God in our church but also in our city. People need the Lord.
Ivet said,
January 22, 2012 at 4:56 pm
Oh Susan thank you so much for your kind words. You were so right about the direction the Lord is leading me. Unfortunately I think I am a slow learner am still struggling with the lesson. Sometimes because so much has been denied me on this side of heaven it makes me doubt myself. For various reasons I have not been back to this site until today so i just read your reply. I made it through Dec. but did not feel complete so on January 1st I started again almost every time i went to my bible to read the scripture would speak to me of God’s love. I did not follow a reading plan I would open my bible randomly and it did not matter old or new testament God’s love would be revealed. I know I am never alone but I still feel lonely. I intend though to keep pressing until I experience that supernatural love and care you mentioned. You are a blessed and kind person and I appreciate you and everyone on this site. God bless everyone.
Sheila said,
January 11, 2012 at 3:49 am
Started the fast on Monday with my husband and adult daughter through our church. Not having coffee was the hardest, but have gotten past it through prayer. As I work nights as a nurse, this means I have been doing alot of praying at work! Praise the Lord!
lulu said,
January 9, 2012 at 7:44 pm
I am praying and believing for my son not to be deployed back to the Afghanistan war. He is “scheduled” to leave next month in February but I know GOD is bigger than any war or any Army, he is the COMMANDER IN CHIEF! This is my first time really doing this the way it is supposed to. I am daring to believe the impossible (for men). I also lead a youth outreach ministry in my church and I am praying and fasting for guidance and wisdom as it grows. Also, I too want to be healthy and learn to take good care of my body!
denisemcdonald said,
January 8, 2012 at 4:33 pm
Awesome it’s the heartfelt things God honors anyway!!!!!!
bPettis952@gmail.com said,
January 6, 2012 at 7:22 pm
My church and I will start the Daniel fast on January, 9th 2012 I told others about the fast in different States and they also will join in with us. That is a Blessing, you can bring people to Christ. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. (Mark 16:15)
Tonetta Reed said,
January 4, 2012 at 4:02 pm
Im going on my third day of Daniel fast. Im learning to eat healthy. Also, I am meditating, reading and singing praises unto the Lord.
Theresa Bratten said,
January 4, 2012 at 8:20 am
I am in the 4th day of my fast and it is going okay. I have been cooking the meals and my husband is enjoying them. I am challenged to keep him full (he is a big guy). The recipes are good but the Stuffed Peppers were way too hot!!! I will have to modify that recipe from now on. The veggie chili was awesome! I will be repeating that a lot!!!
I am struggling with the desire to smoke and drink a little but am in constant prayer and reciting over and over that “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. Then drink a lot of water. Please keep me in prayer because I really want to be successful in this journey. On my way. Thanks for the support. I really need it.
Kayla Blanco said,
January 10, 2012 at 2:10 pm
Theresa you can do this! During those times you feel weak our daddy will be your strength. Call on His name! I will keep you on my prayer list. Keep pressing on!
phyllis said,
January 15, 2012 at 4:39 pm
I always had a smoking and drinking problem. But thank God last year after I did the corporate fast with my church I have been totally delivered from smoking and alcohol. Praise God. I wanted to give you some encouragement Theresa. You can do ALL things through Christ who is and will strengthen you! He did it for me and I quoted that scripture over and over believing expected God to help me with this and He did like He always does. I hope that encouraged you. I am doing it this year again. I have tasted and seen that the Lord is good and His mercy endures forever. I am believing for my marriage this year and our finances. God is so pleased with your sacrifice you are doing. Take care!
Tonetta Reed said,
January 2, 2012 at 1:16 pm
I am going on the daniel fast on Jan. 2,2012. I told myprayer circle about the fast.
Dr.Diana Brevan Jesus Is Lord Fellowship WWI said,
December 26, 2011 at 11:08 am
I do the daniel Fast through out the year due to Health. I Pray that everyone who comes forth to Fast with the Daniel fast that their Temples of the Holy Spirt Will Be Vibrant and alive filled with Health and Healing as you take care of the Lords Temple Of the Holy Spirit In Jesus Mighty Name.
Mattie Qualls said,
December 19, 2011 at 7:45 am
I am looking forward to getting into this..not becaue of the food reduction..but with the prayer and fasting…I know Jesus will do a mighty work in me….Thats what its all about being holy ghost filled as in Acts 2:38 and becoming more like Jesus..amen
ivet said,
December 4, 2011 at 9:21 pm
Hi am about to start my fast again tomorrow. My third time the first i did for 21 days and the second 10. am committing myself for 21 days or as the Lord leads. I am very burdened right now by two areas of my life. Am hurt and sad all the time and I have to make a huge effort not to be irritable. I feel i wear a mask hiding behind it at all times. So am fasting for deliverance, guidance, a break through. This will be a difficult time for me to do this. I love the Christmas season, but maybe the sacrifice is what i need to do for my answers from God. I am so nervous about starting don’t know why am so fearful….. but i know that God is able. Pray with me
Susan Gregory said,
December 5, 2011 at 10:23 am
Hi Ivet,
One message the Scriptures state over and over again is “Do not be afraid.”
I sense the Lord calling you to get to know more about the great love He has for you. It’s a love that is more than you can imagine! But still, imagine. Ask the Holy Spirit, our greatest Teacher and Counselor, to help you see, experience and enjoy the supernatural love and care your Father has for you. Have faith in God. He will show you.
Also, I encourage you to start a Gratitude Journal during this time of prayer and fasting. Each day list at least 10 things that you are thankful to God about. Then open your heart and your mouth and praise God by telling Him how thankful you are and tell Him of each one on the list.
Seek joy. Seek goodness. And consider making Philippians 4:8 your “go to verse” as you step out of the darkness and fear and into His glorious light.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Be blessed on your fast!
julie said,
November 22, 2011 at 5:13 am
How long is the Daniel fast ,I am hoping to start on Saturday in preparing my self ready for advent thank u
Susan Gregory said,
November 22, 2011 at 5:14 am
Hi Julie,
Most people enter into a time of 21 days using the Daniel Fast. However, many use it for fewer days (i.e. 10 or so). Pray and seek the Lord’s direction or you might want to start the fast planning on staying on it for at least 10 days and then wait for the “release” by praying and seeking God’s direction.
Be blessed on your fast!
Kim Bell said,
September 26, 2011 at 2:04 pm
Hi Susan,
Today is my sixth day on the Daniel Fast and I have found the more I concentrate on God the easier it is to control my flesh. I have followed your book to the letter and have found that your prescription for success for the Daniel fast has proved to be valuable as I keep my eye on my set Godly milestones.
The first couple of days into the fast was a challenge for me and I literally spent hours in constant prayer, fellowship, exercise, reading the bible, and spending time outside enjoying all His works and glory. Today, my flesh seems to be bridled and under control. The Heavenly Father has shown me his glory and opened my eyes to what is more important than always concentrating on food, which has allowed me to trust God as I follow him through this 21 day fast.
Blessing to You!
With Kinds Regards,
Kim Bell
Daniel Fast Team said,
September 27, 2011 at 4:33 am
Praise God Kim! You are on your way, and we rejoice with you in all God is doing in your life… and all He is about to do! Thank you for your kind, encouraging words! Be Blessed on your Journey!
sylvia said,
September 4, 2011 at 4:10 am
Hi tomorrow I’m going to start my Daniel Fast for 40 days. I have fasted earlier on a one meal fast for length of time but this is first for Daniel fast. I have a long list of petitions to God, I’m growing cold towards God and I wish to have close intimacy with HIM. Also I’m praying for my teenage son for complete transformation and to pull down all strongholds in him and to remove unruly friends, please pray for me.
Daniel Fast Team said,
September 4, 2011 at 6:11 am
Dearest Sylvia,
Sadly, most of us has been there at one time or another, letting our relationship with our Lord grow cold. This happens gradually, un-noticed (by us) at first, but when we find ourselves drawn away from sweet fellowship with Him by the cares of this life, the most direct way to put the kibosh on that is to #1 Repent! #2 Separate yourself from the world and it’s cares by just what you are doing, entering into a time of prayer and fasting. Ask the Holy Spirit for His direction in how to best pray for your son, He loves you and He is faithful to lead, He has good plans for your life, and your sons. He always answers when we call Ps. 34:4 I help you start out strong on your fast I encourage you to go to http://www.daniel-fast.com/ click on Spiritual Life, there is a wealth of spiritual aids to help strengthen and encourage you in your journey. God loves you and your son, and He has a way of escape for your family in everything that has held you back….. He has good plans for your life – Jer. 29:11, Ps. 34:4, Ps. 91, Deut. 28:14, Deut. 30:6, Is. 59:21, Rev. 12:11 Be Blessed on your Fast!
jozo3@sbcglobal.net said,
July 27, 2011 at 9:25 am
Do you feel tired on this fast or will I be able to work out as usual?
Daniel Fast Team said,
July 29, 2011 at 12:52 pm
Don’t be surprised if you go through withdrawals from caffeine and sugar the first few days of your fast. Most of us feel lethargic and tired. But that soon passes and we move into a surge of well-being and increased energy. Be blessed and be sure to eat a balanced Daniel Fast eating plan.
Felesia said,
July 29, 2011 at 3:20 pm
I did the fast during the Lentin season and there was one day early on when I had just had to lie down because I had no energy. I slept and then I prayed because I really had serious thoughts of quitting. God is so good and He will never leave you. I got through the day and that was it. I think it may have been associated with caffeine withdrawal. I continued the fast for the entire Lentin season and I was so blessed. Please stick with it. Just pray….God is so much stronger than the flesh….
Be blessed,
Felesia
Coenraad said,
July 10, 2011 at 11:12 am
We,my wife Margo and I, Coenraad, are going tomorrow on our third Daniel Fast. The second was much better than the first. We fasted the second time for our cell group members and you can not believe the results of trusting the Lord. All I can say, the power in fasting and prayer is above expectation. We are fasting for two of our special friend families this time. We trust that the Lord will bring the solution in their lives. It is a special time and we got a expectation for what the Lord will do, not us. His plan is the best, Jer 29:11-12. Fasting is a important tool for all Christians. We are taking our faith to lightly.Be blessed every one doing any fasting
Sarah said,
June 9, 2011 at 7:12 am
This is my first time doing the fast and I am excited to get closer to the Lord. I want to hear his voice more clearly and focus on Him. Also I want to focus on what I already have in my life rather what I do not have. Learning to focus on the foods I can have is a good leason.
I am on my second day and I have a question.
I am not drinking coffee as instructed but I had a terrible headache yesterday, woke up with one today… I dont want to have coffee, I feel like I would be cheating… can i take advil? I am thinking no because that is not natural either… not sure what to do??
Daniel Fast Team said,
June 9, 2011 at 8:44 am
Hi Sarah,
Drink Lots of Water! Headaches are one of the symptoms of withdrawals (headaches, fatigue, cramps, joint pain to name a few) your body is going through the detox process from caffeine, sugar or chemicals. These symptoms will pass in a few days (3-7) Meanwhile, flushing your system with water will ease your discomfort and speed up the detox process, and then if still needed do take some medication. As a general guideline, your body needs half its body weight in ounces of water per day, ie: 160lbs = 80 oz. of water daily. Add to that amount if you are experiencing any extreme conditions such as exposure to warm weather, cold weather, exercise or Detox. I hope this helps, Be Blessed in your Fast!
Bronda said,
May 6, 2011 at 9:39 am
This was a very important post! Thank you Susan
scott sawyer said,
April 19, 2011 at 7:22 am
I would like to thank you for your support emails during my fast. I am starting a second 21 fast with my wife she noticed how it affected me physically and spiritually. This fast if from God.
Tricy said,
April 17, 2011 at 7:31 am
Hi, I am on day 5 of my fast. I started my fast because I have an addiction to food. I have been battling this demon for years and I fast and pray daily for an answer of why. I have been having a problem over the past two days. I have not had an desire to eat at all is this normal or okay? I have been worried that if I do not eat I will become tired and lifeless.
Daniel Fast Team said,
April 19, 2011 at 1:42 pm
Hi Tricy,
Yes, this is somewhat normal (although it doesn’t happen to everyone, everytime) and it’s Okay, not to worry, it is also temporary. With any food addiction, as you well know, the appetite can be the one bossing you around. So take advantage this time of fasting and “the flesh” being quiet, because the truth is you are now in control exercising your authority over your flesh and not only telling it when to eat, your telling it what to eat! Keep up the good job, this is how God created you to live, to be in dominion over your earthly vessel!
I encourage you to plan out in advance your meals to keep you on track. You can receive the meal planning sheet by submitting your email address, just go to: http://www.daniel-fast.com they will be emailed back to you. We are here to provide you with all the resources you need for a successful Daniel Fast.
Be Blessed on your Fast!
rhemajoy said,
April 4, 2011 at 9:31 am
I am thankful that this post is here. I have been thinking the same thing myself. The last time I did the fast, I became so focused on substituting that I missed the point. I use the Daniel Fast as a method of fasting because I have health problems that prevent me from a total fast. So, this time, I am not going to any great length in search of great recipes or substitutions. I want to eat bland…deny the flesh…eat to live…not live to eat. Fasting is about sacrificing…and reminding ourselves of Christ’s sacrifice for us.
Ivet said,
March 25, 2011 at 8:52 am
Hi everyone
I am almost at the end two more days. I feel really blessed to make it this far
at the beginning i thought it was impossible. In the past i have fasted from sun up to sunset occasionally, total abstaining from food and water during those hours. It seemed easier for me to not eat at all, than to be specific in what I ate. Now I see there are many lessons that i needed to learn. I believe truly that my body is the temple of the Lord but if i am not a good steward with it (and i was not) i am dis-honoring my Lord so now i have learned to make healthier choices, I have learned to say no to temptations and move on. My co-workers who knew I was doing it was sometimes in awe sometimes playing the devils advocate by offering things i Shouldn’t eat, but to God be the glory i smiled and refused. Discipline and self control are hard lessons I am learning right now. I feel led to continue the fast but maybe to take a break and then start again. I did not want to make this about losing weight so i have refused to weigh myself. I also believe that i was able to last the course because I made it clear that this for religious reasons not for weight loss. I am so happy day 19. Yeah! to God be the glory. Be blessed everyone.
Felesia said,
March 12, 2011 at 6:08 am
Hello Susan,
Thank you so much for this blog posting. I started the fast yesterday without a book. I have ordered one from my local bookstore and I am hoping that it comes in soon. I want to fast and sacrifice for God during this Lentin season.
I am a mother of three young children, a wife and a professional and I just feel so overwhelmed and tired with all that I have to do. I know my life is blessed, but I am convicted daily because I don’t spend enough time with God. I seek the advise of the Holy Spirit throughout the day, but I don’t this is the same is truly coming to foot of the cross and spending time with God. Not just to ask for things, but to worship Him and time for silence to hear from Him. I am hopeful that the Daniel fast will help me with this. Yesterday was hard because I wasn’t sure what I should be eating so thanks for the food lists that you have posted. I am not going to try any recipes during this time because I feel that doing this will take my eyes off the sacrifice. I can’t stand oatmeal and most mushy foods, but I will eat it (first time since I was 7 y/o!) because my body will need some source of energy. I am looking forward to the book because I hope it contains a resource that will help with the spiritual journey… I have signed up for the dialy devotionals. I am entering this fast empty…no expectations other than getting closer to the Lord.
I am looking forward to the devotionals and for spritual clarity at the end of this journey.
God Bless You,
Felesia
Daniel Fast Team said,
March 14, 2011 at 7:23 am
Hi Felesia,
Blessings to you dear one! God is Good, He knows our hearts, and how to get us to where He wants us to be (and even where we long to be). When we cry out to Him He meets us, and when we take a step toward Him He moves in and closes the gap. I am excited for you and the places that God is taking you through this season of fasting. You are here at this place in your life, at this time……”For such a time as this”, His timing is perfect and you will never be the same!
To assist you in the ‘mushy foods’ department, there are some crunchy options for you. For boxed cereals are the Ezekiel brands and there are several others found in the Natural Foods section of grocery stores or at health food stores. Also,some varieties of Shredded Wheat, here is one: http://www.arrowheadmills.com/product/shredded-wheat-cereal
Be Blessed in your Journey!
Sheryl said,
March 8, 2011 at 11:42 am
I have purchased your book from amazon, after looking through it in the Christian book section of my local supermarket. I knew I had to have it, for several reasons. 1) I have turned to a totally plant based way of eating for health issues, and 2) I was doing my Bible Study, where I learned about Daniel and his approach to food, for the first time!
I will do anything that draws me closer to God, so I am anticipating learning about the Daniel Fast. It’s not just about the food. Thanks.
Maddy said,
February 27, 2011 at 1:18 pm
I want to try the Daniel Fast for a number of reasons. Spirit and health. I feel I am facing some inner challenges and I want to try to do this. My discilpine, when it comes to eating, is a downfall of mine. I lose and then I lose discipline. I have changed part of my diet to what is a healthier way of eating but with a purpose, that purspose being to get closer to God and why I am here, this is a challenge I cannot turn from.
I work every day – M through F. I work under stress at times. My heart tells me that the Daniel Fast would make me, at least in the end, feel so much better and have more strength both spiritually and physically.
Will it be ok to do while I am working? I want to make my body healthy and give myself another chance. God has given me so many chances, I need to give myself at least one more.
The fear that this is commercialized does worry me and I come here on this blog, openly, to ask for your expertise so that I can move forward with a clear mind.
I am also hoping that this fast will allow me to go to new heights with my talents and relationships with people. I feel I need to do something for God and while it looks so difficult for me, it’s nothing compared to the blessings I have.
So, I am trying my humblest best to get this going. Can you help me?
Thank you.
Daniel Fast Team said,
March 1, 2011 at 11:46 am
Hi Maddy,
Yes, this Fast is condusive to any lifestyle. The Daniel Fast – Is a type of fast based on the fasting experiences of the prophet along with typical Jewish fasting principles. We are not trying to reenact the prophet’s fast, but rather use the experiences to serve as guidelines for a partial fast that can be experienced by people today.
Susan Gregory has been teaching about the Daniel Fast since 2007 – and has experienced the great pleasure of interacting with thousands of men, women and teens who use this method of partial fasting. Many people who are not able to go on a water-or liquid-only fast are able to enter into the powerful experience of prayer and fasting using the Daniel Fast. I truly believe God has ordained this fast for this time.
The Daniel Fast is totally plant-based. The two foundational scriptures for the fast are Daniel 1:12 says, “Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink.” Pulse is food grown from seed . . . corn, potatoes, rice and the like are all considered grown from seed. Dan. 10:3 – I ate no pleasant or desirable food, nor did any meat or wine come into my mouth; and I did not anoint myself at all for the full three weeks. Because of this, we eat no sweeteners of any kind, no deep fried foods and no fancy desserts. We also don’t use any stimulants such as caffeine or alcohol.
I understand your caution, I encourage you to continue to study the information on this blog and my site at http://www.Daniel-Fast.com as there is a wealth of information about the Daniel Fast.
Also, if you go to http://www.daniel-fast.com and enter your email address you can order your copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines and they will be emailed back to you at no charge. Prayerfully take all this to the Lord for His instruction and let the Holy Spirit direct you in the best plan for you. God is good, He loves you, and He is so very faithful!
Be Blessed in your Journey!
frances mason said,
September 8, 2011 at 5:16 pm
Re: Maddy said, February 27, 2011 at 1:18 pm.
I can relate to maddy. i am in the midst of reading the fasting book by pastor franklin. the book is sooooo anointed. i feel the anointing as i am reading. i also want to do the 21 day fast and do it right. i need discipline. i love to eat and don’t want to stray away with the temptation of eating the wrong thing. i know God wants to use me in a mighty way. i can feel it and have received the witness from the Lord that he wants to use me. you know night cometh when no man can work. i don’t want to wait too late. now, on this fast, do we eat only one meal a day. seriously, i can can’t have diet juice.
Daniel Fast Team said,
September 9, 2011 at 4:01 am
Hi Frances,
There are no required amount of meals. However, we do suggest three moderate meals per day with two healthy snacks included. The Daniel fast is a partial fast (totally plant based, sweetener free, chemical additive free) and based on (Daniel 1, Daniel 10) the fasting experiences of the prophet along with typical Jewish fasting principles. Unlike traditional fasting where disciplines must focused on denying all food intake, the Daniel Fast disciplines must be exercised on denying specific foods only. The only drinking beverage is water, however 100% Unsweetened fruit and vegetables juices can be used in recipes as well as can plant based unsweetened milks (almond, soy, rice, coconut, etc.), milks can also be used on Daniel Fast friendly breakfast cereals. So, no diet juices on the fast.
If you don’t already have one you can order a copy of the Daniel Fast Guidelines by going to http://www.daniel-fast.com and enter your email address, they will be emailed back to you, this is a great resource to have on hand while on your fast. I hope this helps, Be Blessed on your Journey!
Eden said,
February 22, 2011 at 7:28 am
I wanted to partake in this fast but I wanted to know if I could just do it for ten days. I’m new to fasting and I wanted to start off at a pace that would not be to taxing.
Daniel Fast Team said,
February 28, 2011 at 11:49 am
Hi Eden,
Yes, the fast can be modified for the time frame that works best for your schedule.
Be Blessed on your fast!
Jennifer said,
February 15, 2011 at 11:26 pm
Hello!
I am only on day 2 of the DF and I am feeling quiet tired and lethargic but I realized after reading the information that if I had prepared my body I would be feeling better. I am still planning to continue and are expecting to be energetic enough soon. I am very blessed by this site and the encouragement and information that it has provided. I had an awesome time with my Lord these past two days and have already received words of guidance from Daddy! I am excited to see how He directs me for the next season and to see growth in the areas of self-control, discipline and healthy eating. I was amazed to see how much I enjoyed eating my food today even though I don’t usually enjoy vegetables much! I have been praying and meditating about how I could help my kids learn discipline and healthier eating habits and the Lord helped me realized that I have to learn them first before i can teach my kids! So I know that my friend talking to me about the Daniel fast and asking me to do it with her was God’s answer to how I would begin to do just that! I am also praying and working on increasing my faith and REALLY believing and relying on God for all things! Specially for complete healing in the physical for my daughter’s eye issues and my husband’s diabetes. Thank you for all the information, the prayer and encouragement! Be blessed!
Daniel Fast Team said,
February 16, 2011 at 6:56 am
Hi Jennifer,
Drink Lots of Water! Lethargy is one of the symptoms of the body going through detox. These symptoms (headaches, fatigue, cramps, joint pain to name a few) is your body going through detox from caffeine, sugar and/or chemicals. These symptoms will pass in a few days (3-7) Meanwhile, flushing your system with water will ease your discomfort and speed up the detox process.
As a general guideline, your body needs half its body weight in ounces of water per day, ie: 160lbs = 80 oz. of water daily. Add to that amount if you are experiencing any extreme conditions such as exposure to warm weather, cold weather, exercise or Detoxing.
Be Blessed dear one as you draw near to Him in your fast!
Bren said,
February 3, 2011 at 11:33 am
I started a menu today for my Daniel Fast to start March 1, 2011, and I am looking forward to getting started, especially once I read all the encouraging comments. Thanks
Deborah said,
February 2, 2011 at 6:55 am
Hello All.
I am 40 and became born again at age 9 and filled with the Holy Ghost. I believe the Holy Spirit has been dealing with me on fasting as I have been very inquisitive. I began the Daniel fast just over a week ago for the very first time in my life. I have been on diets before where I would cave in and eat what was tempting me. I have to say that fasting is much easier than dieting as when I get a craving for coffee or sweets or such , I find myself not geting weak and caving since I am doing this for a closer relationship with God and I want to be able to hear from Him often. This is a very crucial time in my life as my husband and I have two teenage boys. Since the fast I feel Great and have lost 5 pounds! I dont focus on recipes or spend too much time on food prep. For now I eat very limited foods such as veggies, fruits, and nuts. After my forty day fast I plan on eating this way as a new food lifestyle. At that time I will start looking for recipes and spending more time preparing.
I came on this website today to see if I could have margarine which I found I cannot. No biggy. As we continue our fasts, we do need to focus on “why” we are doing this. Since my fast my younger son gave his heart to Jesus. Praise the Lord!! God Bless you all !!
Your sister,
Deb
Daniel Fast Team said,
February 2, 2011 at 7:05 am
God has great things in store for you and your family!
Continue…..to Be Blessed in your Fast!
Wen said,
February 15, 2011 at 6:54 am
Congratulations on your yonger son accepting Jesus as his Lord.God is great
Connie Anderson said,
March 30, 2011 at 11:58 am
Your testimony has similarities to mine. Our church began a 40 day of prayer and fasting and I am on day 15. We had sermons on fasting and the different types of fasting. Our pastor said we should ask the Holy Spirit guide us as to what type and how long we should fast. I started out thinking I would do a Daniel fast. On day 4 I was impressed to do a full fast of only water in order for my fasting to be a true sacrifice to Him. I felt at peace eating a small portion of vegetables the past few days in order for me to carry on daily chores. Only God knows what lies ahead in my fasting journey.
I am 56, saved and baptised at age 9, and have been wrestling with doubt, lack of faith, lack of spiritual discipline, seeing declining church attendance, etc. On day 6 my only son of 24 accepted Jesus as his savior. God has never been closer than these past two weeks. Scripture that I have read for years is taking on a deeper meaning. I too hope to continue both spiritual discipline and dietary discipline after the 40 days(Easter). Fasting has allowed the verse “..be still and know that I am God…” come alive. To God be the glory!
Erin said,
January 24, 2011 at 3:14 pm
I am a chef and I had been really focused on the food side of things with the fast. I understand that the food is just the physical aspect and the the spiritual aspect is so much more important. But I thank God that even in a time where His desire is for my focus to be on Him, He gives me an opportunity to hone skills that I wouldn’t normally use. Like making my own crackers and breads. It may sound silly but it’s so amazing that God, who knows my hearts desire, makes a way for me to find joy in something that some people might find restrictive and daunting because of the labor involved. It may take longer but that’s time that I get to spend with Him.
My husband is doing the fast as well. He watched me last night prepping fruits, veggies and grains and said that he didn’t realize when he suggested it how much extra work it would mean for me in the kitchen. I hope by the time it’s over that he understands what it means when I say that I show my love for him through what I do for him. I thank God for us to have this opportunity to grow closer together.
Denise Richardson said,
January 23, 2011 at 9:47 am
I understand the value of this way of eating on many levels but how much weight on average can a 58 year old woman expect to lose in 21 days?
Susan Gregory said,
January 23, 2011 at 9:28 pm
Hi Denise,
Weight loss depends on a lot of factors since what you eat has so much to do with caloric intake . . . and then your activity level. I usually lose about 8-10 pounds over the 21-day period. I eat simply and have average activity level and I am a little older than you
Rik said,
January 20, 2011 at 11:00 am
Wow this is the first time as a vegan I have been dietry accepted into a clique!
Susan Gregory said,
January 20, 2011 at 12:50 pm
Hey Rik,
I don’t consider this a “clique.” Instead we are men, women and teens seeking God through prayer and fasting. Either way, you are welcome!
Rik said,
January 20, 2011 at 2:31 pm
I don’t think that all cliques are bad.
Thank you for the welcome and for the encouragement
Shontell said,
January 12, 2011 at 12:28 pm
Blessings on you,
As we started the Daniel Fast, we were like omg I have to give up that and all the other stuff. Then we realized that SELF was in the lead and not the spirit! This DF is teaching and uplifting in the same aspect! Self control and enrichment of the mind and spirit, to get closer to God, and Trust in his word!
Helen said,
January 10, 2011 at 12:46 pm
Can i do the Daniel Fast at anytime?
Daniel Fast Team said,
January 10, 2011 at 12:52 pm
Helen,
Yes, anytime.
Stacy said,
January 10, 2011 at 10:29 am
I think if people, myself included, would have spent more time BEFORE beginning, then the time during the fast would not be spent focusing so much on the logistics of what to eat. I am taking today to do this – cooking rice, prepping veggies, fruits, making a meal plan for my family and I. I am abstaining from other social networking sites and just doing that today has opened up more time for prayer, in addition to my “normal” household duties of wife & mother.
Randy Ciger said,
January 28, 2011 at 7:26 am
That is a great suggestion. I do a somewhat modified version of that and make enough lunch/dinner for today and tomorrow so I’m spending less time on cooking. Susan, I totally agree with you about the spending more time on prayer and time with God instead of figuring out what to eat. This year I felt very convicted to spend much, much less time prepping, shopping and cooking the food and more time with The Lord. It has worked great;Praise Him! Thank you so much for this website and your encouragement.
PS I saw a recipe with agave nectar on another daniel fast recipe site. Is agave nectar on the food list? I thought all sweeteners were out? Tx
Daniel Fast Team said,
January 28, 2011 at 8:32 am
Hi Randy,
You’re correct, there is no sweeteners of any kind allowed on the fast.
Marlette Seward said,
January 10, 2011 at 9:27 am
Thank you pastor for these words
Marlette said,
January 10, 2011 at 9:26 am
Amen Pastor! I have to keep remindig myself of this very thing and ask Gods forgiveness.
Cybil said,
January 9, 2011 at 2:16 pm
Thank you for this post. This is my first time fasting, and at first, I found myself being so caught up in the food aspect and worrying about what I could eat. Now after my 3rd day of being on the fast, I thnk that I am finally settling down. I had a have a real reality check that this fast is about me drawing closer to God. I am a foodie and a chef and have always been around food. My struggle has been breaking poor eating habits, and so I am praying that this fast will help me to lean more on God and not food.
Daniel Fast Team said,
January 9, 2011 at 3:13 pm
Hi Cybil,
Bless you dear one! You are doing great, and going strong in the right direction! As you “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness….and all these things Will be added to you!” I want to encourage you, what you are doing right now is this, “lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him, (He is faithful) He will direct your paths”.
Be Blessed on your journey!
rhemajoy said,
April 4, 2011 at 9:33 am
Amen. This was very encouraging. I kicked off my fast with the last day of a weekend spiritual retreat. I am excited to see how God will grow me through this…and what He will feed me in place of the food I am denying myself.