Self Reflection 2014 DANIEL FAST INTRODUCTION

Transcription

1

2 2014 DANIEL FAST INTRODUCTION And when He had come into the house, His disciples asked Him privately, Why could we not cast it out? So He said to them, This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting. Mark 9: (NKJV) Those among us who are avid bible readers or who have been in church and heard more sermons than we can remember will recognize the story of the Lord s healing of the epileptic boy found in both the Gospels of Matthew and Mark as one of our Lord s more famous miracles. According to the word of God, after our Lord s experience of transfiguring prayer on the mountain the desperate father of this young man confronted him. As the father related the history of his son s condition, he informed him that he had brought his son to the disciples and they could do nothing. After Jesus gave the disciples an appropriate word of reprimand, he delivered the young man and sent him away with his father. When the disciples asked him privately why they had failed, according to the New King James Version of the scriptures, the Lord replied, This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting. Fasting was a spiritual discipline that our Lord practiced because he recognized that spiritual growth required going beyond the regular regimen of devotion. As we begin this New Year with a vision of going To The Next Level Upward in terms of surpassing faith, strengthening family, superior fitness and soaring finance, we also recognize the need to do something above and beyond our normal routines of spiritual maintenance. Our twenty-one day Daniel Fast, that is grounded in scripture (Daniel 10: 1-14) is part of the preparation that we undergo both as a congregation and as individuals for the new opportunities as well as obstacles that are found at The Next Level Upward. No athlete would dare attempt a new level of performance without intensive and extra training. No car manufacturer would dare bring a new product to the market without subjecting it to extensive and unusual tests to ascertain its market worthiness. 2 Self Reflection

3 Self Reflection No professional would think about taking an examination for a promotion or a higher position in their career without extensive review and extra preparation regarding material they are expected to know. No musician would dare get on stage for a major performance without practice above and beyond his or her normal routines. Consequently as we anticipate moving To The Next Level Upward, we engage in a food sacrifice. We deny ourselves of our usual dietary fare as one way of sharpening our focus and disciplining ourselves to reach To The Next Level Upward. The twenty-one day Daniel Fast is part of our preparation for the process of promotion and we anticipate a faithful and promise keeping God working in us to bring new levels of growth according to God s pleasure in Christ Jesus and through the power of the Holy Spirit in terms of surpassing faith, strengthening family, superior fitness and soaring finance. My prayer is that we enjoy the journey even as we anticipate the fruit, the blessings and the rewards that will come to pass in our church as well as in our individual lives in 2014, because of the self-denial inherent in this season. Peace. William D. Watley Under Shepherd 3

4 What is Fasting? In the Old Testament, the word fast is derived from the Hebrew term tsom, which refers to the practice of self-denial. It was Hannah, who later became the mother of Samuel, who was so troubled about her inability to have children that she wept and did not eat. (I Samuel 1:7) In the New Testament, the word fast is derived from the Greek word nesteia, which also refers to self-denial. When Jesus began his public ministry, Jesus did so with an extended fast of 40 days. (Matthew 4:1,2) Fasting is abstaining from food for a spiritual purpose. Fasting is not a tool to twist the arm of God so that He will give you exactly what you want. Fasting has a spiritual purpose, and that purpose is to get your flesh out of the way so that the Spirit of God can move in your life. Fasting removes the barriers to communication with God and allows your spiritual nature to commune directly with the heavenly Father without disturbance. When a person makes a determination to fast, they are making a determination to remove the obstacles in their life and to submit to the will of God. Four Types of Fast Full Fast Drink only liquids (you establish the number of Day). The Daniel Fast Eat no meat, no sweets and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables. 3-Day Fast This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food. Partial Fast A partial fast is from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm or from sun up to sundown. You can select from three types of fasting a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food. FASTING AND YOUR HEALTH- We recommend that you always consult your physician prior to beginning any type of fast. If you are in poor health or have concerns about your physical ability to fast, we especially urge you to consult a physician before beginning your fast. There are different types of fasts recommended on these pages. Your doctor can provide advice on how you can participate in this Daniel Fast in a way that is healthy for you. 4 Self Reflection

5 Self Reflection The Daniel Fast As we prepare for the beginning of the year Fast, our church is being called to a special season of fasting and prayer from January 2-22, Since ancient times, fasting (abstaining from all foods, certain kinds of food, and various liquids) has been a spiritual discipline that believers have practiced for strengthening their relationship with God, direction in decision making, power to break certain habits or to resist the attack of the enemy, healing for the body and mind, adoption of healthier lifestyles, and as a support and aid in prayer when certain request are being laid before the Lord. Prayer and fasting go together as a hand inside a glove. Abstinence from food can be viewed as a diet. What gives a fast its distinctiveness is its spiritual focus, which deepens one s relationship with God. Even if one is seeking something in particular from the Lord, one should still become closer to the Lord during a fast. Thus, a spiritual fast is always accompanied by increased prayer, meditation, reading/studying the word of God, and worship. The scriptural basis for this fast is Daniel 10:2-3. At the end of his fast Daniel and his friends were found to be healthier physically, mentally, and spiritually than any of their other contemporaries who had made no sacrifice for their faith. At the end of their training period Daniel and his friends received such favor and showed such wisdom that they were given promotions in the kingdom. The prayer and fasting focus for this twenty-one day period is: To The Next Level Upward: Surpassing Faith, Strengthening Family, Superior Fitness, Soaring Finance Resources: Fasting, Franklin Jentzen Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough, Elmer Towns The Daniel Fast, Elmer Towns 5

6 Foods to include in your diet during the Daniel Fast Self Reflection All fruits: These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Fruits include but are not limited to apples, apricots, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, cantaloupes, cherries, cranberries, figs, grapefruits, grapes, guavas, honeydew melons, kiwis, lemons, limes, mangoes, nectarines, oranges, papayas, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums, prunes, raisins, raspberries, strawberries, tangelos, tangerines, watermelon All vegetables: These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Vegetables include but are not limited to artichokes, asparagus, beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chili peppers, collard greens, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, garlic, ginger root, kale, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, okra, onions, parsley, potatoes, radishes, rutabagas, scallions, spinach, sprouts, squashes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, turnips, watercress, yams, zucchini, veggie burgers are an option if you are not allergic to soy. All whole grains: including but not limited to whole wheat, brown rice, millet, quinoa, oats, barley, grits, whole wheat pasta, rice cakes and popcorn. All nuts and seeds: including but not limited to sunflower seeds, cashews, peanuts, sesame. Also nut butters including peanut butter without sugar. All legumes: These can be canned or dried. Legumes include but are not limited to dried beans, pinto beans, green beans, split peas, lentils, black eyed peas, kidney beans, black beans, cannellini beans, and white beans. All quality oils: including but not limited to olive, canola, grape seed, peanut, and sesame. Beverages: spring water, distilled water and pure juices. Other: tofu, soy products, vinegar, seasonings, salt, herbs and spices. Fish Option: May eat fish once a week following the Biblical principals. 6

7 Self Reflection Foods to avoid on the Daniel Fast All meat and animal products: including but not limited to beef, lamb, pork, fish, and poultry. All dairy products: including but not limited to milk, cheese, cream, butter, and eggs. All sweeteners: including but not limited to sugar, honey, raw sugar, syrups, molasses, and cane juice. All leavened bread: including Ezekiel Bread (it contains yeast) and baked goods. All refined and processed food products: including but not limited to artificial flavorings, food additives, chemicals, white rice, white flour, and foods that contain artificial preservatives. All deep fried foods: including but not limited to potato chips, french fries, corn chips, etc. Beverages: Coffee, tea, soda, alcohol, energy drinks or any other caffeine drinks Word of Caution: Persons who have certain dietary restrictions are encouraged to consult their physician before beginning the Daniel or any other food fast. In the event that a competent and certified physician advises against your participation in the Daniel Fast you are asked to seek God s direction regarding the sacrifice that is appropriate for you so that you can reach a new dimension of spiritual breakthrough and so that you can be in agreement with your brothers and sisters in Christ who are participating in the Daniel Fast. Also for persons who intake caffeine, it is suggested that a gradual reduction of your caffeine intake starts before the Daniel Fast begins on January 2, 2014 Remember, READ THE LABELS! 7

8 Helpful hints for a successful fast Before you begin fast... Pray from the start include God in your fast. Pray privately but also try to pray with others at the Tuesday night prayer meetings and after the services on Sunday mornings. Plan Create menus, along with your shopping lists each week. Decide what you will eat and not eat during your individual fast. Write s o m e things down in a journal and ask God to help you answer some of your questions. What is the purpose of your fast? When will it begin and end? Have I set up my daily calendar having set times to pray, study, meditate on God s word? What study and devotional materials will I use to focus on God? How will I eat and also relate to friends and family during meals? Will I pack lunches and set aside certain times or days for meal preparation? Desserts & Snacks Healthy Banana Cookies 3 ripe bananas 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oatmeal (not instant oatmeal) 1 cup sugar free dried fruit (dates, raisins, dried apples, dried apricots, etc) 1/3 cup vegetable oil Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl mash the bananas. Stir in oats, dried fruit, and oil. Mix well and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes in over or until lightly browned. Allow to cool and enjoy. Crackers 1 ¼ cups whole wheat flour, divided (rye, buckwheat or cornmeal can be substituted) ½ teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons canola oil or olive oil; more as needed 4 tablespoons water; add more as needed 1 teaspoon seasoning such as dried herbs, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, etc. (optional) Directions: 1. Using a food processor to mix 1 cup of the flour, ½ teaspoon salt and oil. 2. Add 3 tablespoons water and mix well. Gradually add more water, mixing after each addition, until mixture forms a compact ball. If it seems too sticky to handle, add more flour. 3. Sprinkle your work surface (or a baking sheet-sized piece of parchment paper) with some of the remaining flour then press and roll the dough to about 1/8th inch thickness, trying to get it fairly uniform. If the dough is too dry to roll out, return it to the food processor and add a little more water. If necessary to prevent sticking, dust your hands and the rolling pin with a little more flour. 4. Place the rolled-out dough on a baking sheet dusted with a little flour or cornmeal (if you have used parchment paper, transfer dough and paper to baking sheet) 5. Bake for minutes in a preheated 400 degree oven, until light brown. 6. Cool and break into pieces. If making several batches, mix another while the first one bakes. You can re-use the parchment paper several times. 8 41

9 Zucchini Pizza Whole Wheat Flatbread (no yeast) Basil Tomato sauce Zucchini Tomatoes Jalapeno Purple onions Use the veggies you like to make your pizza. Spaghetti Pie Whole Wheat - Angel Hair Pasta (when ready drain and set a side) 1 Jar - Spaghetti Sauce No Sugar, No Preservatives (Mario Batali, Bertolli, Giada or Puttanesca Sauce) 1 cup chopped Zucchini 1 cup shredded Carrots 1 package shredded Veggie Mozzarella Cheese from (Publix in the fresh veg. section near the organics) Mix Sauce, Zucchini and Carrots and heat through for about 20 mins. (season to taste if needed) Directions: Preheat oven to 350 (While heating sauce) In a casserole dish Layer: sauce, pasta, sauce, cheese, pasta, sauce, cheese, pasta, sauce & top w/cheese Spray foil with Pam and cover lightly cook for approx. 20 mins. Remove foil continue cooking to brown another 10 mins. or broil to brown (watch it closely) ** If using large casserole dish double everything but keep the layering the same. My Reason for Fasting: 2014 Fasting Contract Beginning Date of Fast: Ending Date of Fast: I commit myself to God s plan and this fast for my life. Signed Date 40 9

10 21 Day Daniel Fast January 2, Day 1 Surpassing Faith: The Request For Increased Faith The apostles said to the Lord, Increase our faith! -Luke 17: 5 The request of the disciples for increased faith is an interesting petition indeed. As a matter of fact, it can even be a daring and dangerous desire. Why should one ask for increased faith unless one is expecting more? Why should one ask for increased faith unless one is anticipating moving To The Next Level Upward? The reality is that our present level of faith is sufficient for where we are. Our present level of believing, serving, and giving are sufficient for our present testimony of God s faithfulness. Our present walk with the Lord has been sufficient to bringing us through everything we have already come through. Our present level of faith is sufficient for overcoming present problems and wining over present demons. The request for increased faith is not necessary for those with a backwards vision whose main desire is a return to the good Old Days and whose mantra is the old ways are the best ways. Our present level of faith is sufficient for a nostalgic walk down memory lane to another era that is no longer our reality. Neither is the request for increased faith necessary for those who feel they have already arrived. The present level of faith is sufficient if we believe that where we are is the best that we can hope to achieve and that our task now is to simply hold on to what we have until the Lord calls us home. The request for increased faith is not a survival or maintenance mode prayer. The request for increased faith is only appropriate if we are envisioning, anticipating and even working for more. The request for increased faith is only appropriate if we are anticipating more possibilities and more problems, more growth and more grief, more anointing and more adversaries. As we stand at the beginning of another year, we are praying, we are expecting, we will be striving for and working towards The Next Level Upward. That is the reason we are praying for increased faith---we are expecting more from God and we are preparing ourselves for everything that comes with the more from God. That is why we need increased faith. Since we are expecting more, since we will be giving more, since we will be doing more, we need faith that surpasses where we are now. Thus we begin this New Year with the same request as the Lord s apostles, Increase our faith. Prayer: Lord we pause at the beginning of another year to thank and praise you for Days past and gone. We are not looking at your mighty acts and praying that you would simply Do it again. We are asking that this year you would do something new. We want a new glimpse of your glory. We want to go new places in you. We want to reach new levels upward in terms of our living and our giving. So we boldly pray, Increase our faith, and we thank you even now for the gift of faith that surpasses what we have so that we can taste and see the joy and the challenges of The Next Level Upward. In your name Lord Jesus, do we offer this prayer, Amen. Rev. William D. Watley, Ph.D. 10 Black Bean Chili with Winter Squash 1 medium or 2 small squashes (acorn or butternut). Note: You can also find bagged pre-cut squash in your grocery produce section. 1 tbs olive oil 1 large onion, chopped 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced 1 medium green bell pepper, diced 2 (16 oz) cans black beans, drained and rinsed 28 oz can diced tomatoes 4 oz can chopped mild green chilies 1 tsp ground cumin 1/2 tsp dried oregano salt to taste Directions: Cut each squash in half, scoop out seeds, and place in a microwave-safe container with 1/4 inch of water. Cover and microwave until tender, allowing 2-3 minutes per squash half. Remove squash and let cool, then peel and cut into chunks. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring often, until soft, about 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients except squash and salt and mix well. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer gently 15 minutes. Stir in squash and season to taste with salt. Serve warm. Enjoy! Oven Baked Sweet Potatoes 2 pounds sweet potatoes, about 3 large ones 1/4 cup olive Sprinkle with Sea Salt and cayenne pepper to taste Note: You can use Cajun seasoning, cinnamon, etc. Daniel Fast friendly seasoning. Directions: 1 Preheat oven to 350 F. 2 Wash and clean the sweet potatoes. Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and then, if they are very long, in half crosswise. Cut each piece into cubes. 3 Put the sweet potatoes into a large bowl and add the oil. Mix well to combine. Sprinkle with spices of your choice. Use your hands to mix well so all pieces are coated with oil and spices. 4 Spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet. The oil they are coated with should keep them from sticking to the pan. If you are trying to cut fat, reduce the oil to 2 Tbsp and use a non-stick coating on the baking sheet. 5 Bake for a total of 25 to 30 minutes until brown and soft. 39

11 Wonderful Black-eye Pea Salad 1 large tomato, diced 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped 1 Jalapeno, finely chopped 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped ¼ cup unseasoned rice wine vinegar ¼ olive oil Sea salt and cayenne pepper (to taste) 2 cans black-eyed peas, drained and rinse in cold water (to remove salt) Directions: Combine the first 6 ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, oil, salt and pepper. Toss all together and marinate for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator before serving. Makes 4-6 servings. Roasted Veggies over Angel Hair Pasta Cover Cookie sheet w/quick release foil Cut, wash and dry a ½ of a whole Cauliflower cut into Large Bite size pieces 1 sm. bag baby carrots wash and dry 1 sm. bag French green beans cut in half wash and dry 1 med. Red onion cut into wedges 2 cloves of garlic Directions: Put in a large bowl drizzle with lots of olive oil, season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper When veggies are half way through cooking: Cook enough Whole Wheat Angel Hair Pasta in Sea Salt Water (I use sea salt to cook my pasta in, because you can get it with iodine which the body needs) for how many people you will need to serve Pour onto covered cookie sheet and cook until golden and fork tender (approx. 25 mins.) Turn half way through. Pour over Pasta, oil and all!!! Beet Orange Salad Boil 1 pound beets in salted water until tender, 30 to 40 minutes. Drain, then peel and slice into wedges. Toss in a serving bowl with 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons chopped chives or scallions, and salt and pepper. Add 1 bunch arugula and 2 segmented blood oranges and toss Day Daniel Fast January 3, Day 2 Strengthening Family: Strengthening The Family Through Reconciliation He himself went on ahead of them, bowing himself to the ground seven times, until he came near his brother. But Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept. -Genesis 33:3-4 After Jacob had an encounter with God in Genesis chapter 32 that radically changed his identity and his destiny, he finally found himself face to face with his brother Esau with whom he hadn t dealt fairly with in the past. Needless to say Jacob was worried about this reunion. He thought that maybe Esau would seek revenge for the wrong that he had received in the past. BUT WATCH GOD!!!! When Jacob and Esau greeted each other, Jacob bowed seven times as he approached Esau. To Jacob s immense relief, Esau embraced and kissed him! Soon both were weeping for joy. This scripture teaches us the power of reconciliation. After years of family issues Jacob and Esau come together in peace. Where Jacob thought there would be envy there was excitement, where Jacob thought there would be fear there was friendlessness, where Jacob thought there would be grieving, there was gratefulness and generosity! Who in your family do you need to reconcile with? Call them up, text them, send them an or better yet go see them in person. Make the first move! Its time to strengthen your family. Prayer: Lord, please give me the strength to reach out to my family member(s) that I ve been hurt by and/or those I have hurt by accident or on purpose. Lord, I ask that you would go before me so that when we communicate with each other that we would both feel your presence and power. Lord, I thank you in advance for reconciling and strengthening my family. In Jesus name Amen! Rev. Sylvester D. Patton, III 11

12 21 Day Daniel Fast January 4, Day 3 Superior Fitness: Training Your Mind Towards Thanksgiving O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever. -Psalm 107:1 In so many times in our lives, we hit downfalls, disappointments and distractions when it comes to our fitness goals. This often springs forth in a sea of negativity towards our bodies and often overwhelms our ability to begin a new and healthy lifestyle in the new year. We tell ourselves what we can t do and why we can t do it before we even begin to see that God has blessed us with a new year with new and great possibilities for our fitness goals. With this in mind, we focus on Psalms 107:1 (NRSV), O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His steadfast love endures forever. I want to remind you today that as you seek to reach the superior mark in your physical fitness, you must also be intentional about training your mind to be thankful for the skin that you are already in! God has blessed you beyond measure with a sound mind and a very capable body! Also, be patient with yourself as you take one step at a time toward superior fitness and thank God for every single step that you make! Celebrate each and every day that you make the decision to eat healthier and exercise. Yes, the weight will come off. Yes, you will begin to feel better, but most of all, I want you to go To The Next Level Upward in training your mind to see the small miracles in the progress that you make in your everyday decisions. As we work toward our fitness goals, let us also maintain a spirit of thanksgiving to God. Prayer: Almighty God, you have made me in your image and I praise you for the great work that you have done! Now God, I seek to go To The Next Level Upward in fitness. Be present with me every step of the way. Strengthen my will to make the right decisions toward superior fitness as I make the commitment to never take your grace and mercy for granted. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen! Lunch/Dinner Wonderful Macaroni and Cheese 3 cups macaroni (preferably whole grain), cooked and drained 1 cup non-dairy milk, (I like coconut milk) 2 cups water 2-3 teaspoons salt ½ cup raw cashews ¼ cup pimentos 1 tablespoon lemon juice ¼ cup cornstarch 1 teaspoon onion powder Directions: Blend all ingredients except macaroni in blender until smooth. Pour mixture into a pot and heat on medium heat until mixture begins to thicken. Grease 9x13 casserole dish, take mixture and macaroni and pour into baking dish. Bake on 350 degrees minutes. Makes 6-8 servings Wonderland Waterless Collard Greens 1 bunch Collards (locally grown) 2 medium to large red onions 3 large clove garlic 2 bell peppers Sea Salt Cayenne pepper Grape Seed Oil (Coconut Oil or Olive Oil) Directions: Wash greens in cold water and remove large stems. Cut greens in julienne fashion (1/4 in. size strips). Cut onions, garlic, and peppers into small size and cook on medium heat for about 5 mins. with top on. Put greens in and cover with lid. Cook for minutes, then remove the top allowing the water condensed on the top to run back into the pot. Stir ingredients and replace top. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes more. The key to the greens not burning is using the water from the greens to provide the moisture for them to cook. Add sea salt and cayenne pepper to taste. Rev. Cynthia McDonald, Ph.D 12 37

13 Breakfast Recipes 21 Day Daniel Fast January 5, Day 4 Soaring Finance: Giving To God Brown Rice and Apple Breakfast 1 cup cooked brown rice fresh apple (cut up into bite size pieces to taste) raisins (to taste) 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon 100% pure edible coconut oil Directions: Mix all the ingredients together in a microwave-safe bowl (except the oil), heat for 2 minutes. Add oil, stir and Eat! It is delicious! *You could probably add almond or soy milk to this. Blueberry Pancakes 1 cup whole wheat flour 1 cup almond or soy milk 1/4 cup apple sauce grape seed or olive oil pinch of salt 1/4 cup frozen blueberries Directions: Mix flour, milk, apple sauce, pinch of salt, and 1 tbs of oil. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of blueberries and stir. Heat a tsp of oil on a non-stick pan or griddle on medium heat. Drop in about a 1/4 cup of the mixture and spread it evenly on the pan with the back of a ladle, forming a circle. Allow the top of the pancakes to get bubbly and almost dry before you flip them Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back -Luke 6:38 Giving is important to God and God created us to be givers. For some, giving is easy; for others, it is a bit more challenging. When giving is difficult, we must ask ourselves why? Some will cite numerous financial obligations. Others will cite the unnecessary nature of giving because "God doesn't need my money." While both of these statements seem logical, they really are merely excuses. We are hesitant and reluctant to give because of the true nature of our hearts. The word of God clearly declares that "where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Because God knows that we are individuals who like to know the end result, God gives us a glimpse into the beneficial nature of our giving. God measures what we give, presses it down, shakes it together, and allows it to run over. God does not do this in an astoundingly supernatural way like money falling out of the sky, but God does so by the simple act of putting us on somebody's heart who at some point says, "I just want to be a blessing to you by giving you this." Who wouldn't want to give to a God like that? Prayer: Gracious God, we thank you for this opportunity to be givers. Forgive us for the times we have not given according to Your Word or Your prompting. Thank you for changing our hearts and minds as it pertains to giving. Thank you so much that we give without hesitation or reservation but as a result of our dedication to you. Amen! 36 Rev. Priscilla Adams 13

14 21 Day Daniel Fast January 6, Day 5 Surpassing Faith: God Is Standing By Since they had been without food for a long time, Paul then stood up among them and said, Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete and thereby avoided this damage and loss. I urge you now to keep up your courage, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. For last night there stood by me an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I worship, and he said, Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before the emperor; and indeed, God has granted safety to all those who are sailing with you. So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will be exactly as I have been told. -Acts 27:21-25 Hymn writer, Charles A. Tindley, African-American son of a slave taught himself to read and write at the age of seventeen in He became the Pastor of Calvary Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania where he had earlier been the janitor. Before his death on July 26, 1933, he wrote a beautiful hymn entitled, Stand By Me. The lines depicted the raging of the storms of life and his prayer request for God s constant presence. This brief synopsis of his biography does not entail all the details of his life nor does it detail the transition from church janitor to Pastor, however, we can safely assume that there must have been some hardships, troubles, and yes, even storms which translated his prayer into the lyrics of this song, Stand By Me. I believe that many of us can testify that if we live long enough that there will be those times that arise in our lives which threaten to affect our peace and appear to be like raging storms that put our lives amid waves to consume us. However, when it seems we are about to lose hope, God will send us a word of hope. The storm surviving, Apostle Paul experienced God s peace when he believed the Word of God one that will build surpassed faith. In Acts the 27 th chapter, God sent His angel to reassure Paul that he was going to survive the storm. Paul would not evade it nor endure it alone. Likewise, God reminds us that He is standing by us ever present and because of His favor, we will survive. You might be in a storm today. Just know that you can be transformed into a seasoned sailor with strong faith in God who never fails. In the text, Paul and the others trusted God who was standing by them. Some made it on boards and broken pieces of the ship, but they all made it safely to shore because God was standing by! Ponce de Leon 650 Ponce de Leon Ave NE Atlanta Georgia United States Phone: Hours: 8am to 10pm seven Day a week *Also has a Cold/Hot Bar Whole Foods- There are many locations in Atlanta. Please go to for more information. RESTAURANTS Soul Vegetarian 879 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW Atlanta, GA Neighborhood: West End (404) Monday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM, Tuesday: Saturday 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Soul Vegetarian N Highland Ave NE Atlanta, GA Neighborhood: Poncey-Highland (404) Tuesday - Sunday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Chelsea's Bakery & Vegetarian Restaurant 3423 Covington Dr Decatur, GA (404) Monday - Thusday: 8AM - 10PM, Friday - Saturday 8AM - 11PM Prayer: Dear Lord, We praise You for being our refuge from the storms of life. We thank You for your promise of never leaving us or forsaking us. We are assured this day that your Word never fails and that no matter what we must face because you are standing by standing with us- we are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus. Thank you for the assurance we have in You. In Jesus name. Amen. Rev. John Williams 14 35

15 Specialty Grocery Stores Arden s Garden 2005 Hosea Williams Drive Atlanta, GA Phone: Monday-Friday: 8AM - 7PM, Saturday: 9AM - 7PM Sunday: 11AM - 6PM Arden s Garden is Atlanta s premier fresh juice manufacturer. Please checkout their website for more information. Dulce Vegan Bakery 1994 Hosea L. Williams Dr. NE Atlanta, GA *Ask about the Daniel Fast dessert. Trader Joe's Atlanta 931 Monroe Dr Atlanta, GA Monday -Saturday: 8AM - 10PM, Sunday: 12:30PM - 10PM Trader Joe s- There are many locations in Atlanta. Please go to their website for more information. 467 Moreland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA Sunday Saturday: 8AM-10PM *Also has a Cold/Hot Bar Day Daniel Fast January 7, Day 6 Strengthening Family: Family and Fasting The commandment we have from him is this; those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also. -1 John 4:21 What I remember about my first Daniel Fast was all the shopping and label reading with my family. I also remember the fabulous guacamole my daughter made that helped me on one of my weaker days. On my second Daniel Fast, I remember packing my husband s lunch and laughing with him when he said, When I get to heaven I m going to ask Daniel why in the world he did this fast. During both the first and second years, I remember great conversations with members of my church family about everything from recipes and health to prayers and testimonies. These experiences have made the Daniel Fast a family tradition in the truest sense. There are lots of wonderful things about the Daniel Fast. It helps us invest in our health, become more mindful about our bodies, gain clarity, and focus on God. And yet, the fast is also a bonding experience for the Saint Philip Church family. During the fast, we are better able to appreciate the gift of one another, and we are able to see ourselves as beloved children of God. Ultimately, this experience of love is one of the greatest gifts of the Daniel Fast. All of the praying and fasting will give us strength and unity in our homes and Saint Philip Church family. Prayer: Loving God, during this Daniel Fast we pray that you will fill our hearts with your love. Give us a deeper awareness of your presence, and more love and appreciation for one another. Be glorified in our fast. Let us remember those who love God must love their brothers and sisters, even on one of our weaker days. In the name of Jesus, Amen. Rev. Janice McCray 15

16 21 Day Daniel Fast January 8, Day 7 Superior Fitness: Ten times Better Than... In every matter of wisdom and understanding concerning which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom. -Daniel 1:20 As a child I never wanted to wait on anything. Being the middle child (two over and two under) created a sense of impatience; when am I going to get mine! Often, waiting generates a feeling of being lost or overlooked. Possibly hastening one's efforts to be first in line to get theirs before the remainder becomes zero! This type of attitude served me well; becoming a I before You individual; never understanding the reality of it's not all about me. Time's a-wastin; is a quote which describes many of our attitudes or our lack of ability to wait patiently. Quite often one's nature is on Autopilot and we live in a Hurry-up state of mind. However; it's not necessarily our fault considering we exist in a world of computers, microwaves, smart-phones, instant coffee/tea and instant messages. Some people say, Time is money. They obtain great wealth and believe that advance technology Will always save time and money. One may desire the largest and best of everything immediately; whether it's a cellphone or bank account, home or food. The Word of God in Isaiah 40:29-31 says He gives power to the faint and strengthens the powerless...but those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength...! We must be strong in the LORD and the power of HIS might, like Daniel and the three Hebrew boys. If we must never let this world that's controlled by money and social standings dictate, predict or compromise our moral standards. Stay true and committed to this Daniel's Fast just as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, displayed Superior Fitness after ten days of vegetables and water. After the time of completion, all four stood proud and strong and was found to be ten times better than the rest. We must stand strong and wait on GOD to gain Superior Fitness over some of the finer desires of our hearts. Be strong in the LORD and the Power of His Might... Thirteen more days and Ten times Better Than...! Prayer: God of Power and Grace Divine, keep me strong, focus and committed as I spend these next few days praying, fasting and waiting for Your guidance. Help me to accept Your Will for my life and understand the purpose designed for me to display Your Glory! AMEN. Farmer s Market (opened year round) Decatur Farmer s Market Saturday Hours: 9 A.M. 1 P.M. Open Year-Round The Saturday location is across the street from the Dekalb Courthouse on N. McDonough in downtown Decatur. Wednesday 3 P.M. 6 P.M. (Nov. Feb.) List of Farmer s Markets, Restaurants and Stores At the corner of Commerce Dr. and Church St. in the Bank of America parking lot for the drive-through ATM. Dekalb Farmers Market 3000 E. Ponce De Leon Avenue Decatur, GA Opening Hours Store: 9am - 9pm Business Services: 8am - 5pm *Also has a Cold/Hot Bar Rev Aron Liles 16 33

17 21 Day Daniel Fast To The Next Level Upward: Vision 2014: January 9, Day 8 Soaring Finance: Good Stewards Could Soar in Finance For a bishop as, God s steward, must be blameless; he must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or addicted to wine or violent or greedy for gain; but he must be hospitable, a lover of goodness, prudent, upright, devout, and self-controlled. -Titus 1:7-8 The Daniel Fast Safe Places When I begin to reflect over my life I can remember my father always saying to me, Son it is important that you learn how to manage your money. That statement my father said to me has taught me to be a good steward over my finances. A good steward has self-control and discipline when it comes down to things in life including their finances. Often time in life, finance becomes a big issue because of the lack of self-control and discipline. I would offer to us as we recall the 2014 vision To The Next Level Upward: soaring finance we must have the attributes of a good steward like self-control and discipline. Paul in the selected passage of the text is giving instruction to Titus about choosing a leader as God s steward to lead the people. The text spells out some of attributes that describe a good steward. After sitting with these two verses, I believe this text could be summed up by three words self-control and discipline. I would have to argue the point that we should not only hold this text for leaders but for all humankind. We should have self-control and discipline throughout our lives especially when it comes down to our finance. Self-control and discipline will help us hold true to the dime, dime plan, 10 goes to God, 10 goes to savings, and we live off the 80. It will also help you know how to spend the 80. Prayer: God we thank you for how far you have brought us. God as we are on the 8th day of our Daniel Fast focusing on soaring finances, we ask that you help us to be good stewards over what you have blessed us with. God, we ask that you would help us to develop more self-control and discipline in life especially when it comes down to our finances. God, as your children, we want to make sure that we are being God s good Stewards in order for us to soar higher in our finances and in life. So, we ask that you help us make the right choice when it comes down to our finances. Amen 32 Rev. Brian Swinton 17

18 21 Day Daniel Fast January 10, Day 9 Surpassing Faith: Trusting God In Deep Waters God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth, and to keep alive for you many survivors. So it was not you who sent me here, but God; he has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house and ruler over all the land of Egypt. -Genesis 45:7-8 I had the opportunity to visit Myrtle Beach. I can remember wading out into the water and the water rising to my knees. I felt most confident as long as I had control and could stand firmly on solid ground in the water. However, the further I moved into the water, I found that I was no longer in control, as the waters increased and my attempts to stand faded. The waters became extremely deep, and I retreated back to shore. I thought about sometimes God takes us into deep waters. We may think that we have sure footing and confidence in ourselves, only to find that we have no choice but to trust God fully. It is when God takes us into these deep waters that we learn surpassed faith. Joseph experienced deep waters: despised by his own brothers, sold at the age of seventeen to some traveling tradesmen, sold as a servant to Pharaoh, placed in prison because of a lie, thirteen years in Egypt in deep waters of affliction. However, Joseph s faith increased beyond measure for He learned of the love and faithfulness of God to Him. God took Joseph into deep waters of preparation. The wisdom, anointing, and dreams from God increased Joseph s faith more than he could have ever imagined. This is surpassed faith! Prayer: Father, we thank you for your love and faithfulness towards us. Thank you for rescuing us from the deep waters of sin and teaching us how to trust You. We know that without faith, it is impossible to please You, and it is our desire to always please you. We ask that in our daily endeavors, we will always walk in ever increasing faith. Thank you for always being faithful! In Jesus name. Amen How to Conclude Your Daniel Fast Just as you prepared to start your Daniel Fast, you will want to plan for the conclusion of your fast. Changing the way you eat If you have been on an extended fast of 10 or more days, your physical body has enjoyed healthy and easily digestible foods. Most people realize increased energy and better health during their fast. Reintroduce caffeine, sugar, dairy products, deep fried foods and meat slowly to keep your body from rebelling and bring you discomfort. Small portions are better and adding no more than one type of food each day will give your body a chance to get used to the change. Keep the gems of the fast Most likely, you have gained many powerful lessons about your health and spiritual life. Carry these positive changes into your everyday life. If you have created a habit of meeting with the Lord each morning, continue that practice. If you have gained understanding about healthy eating habits or broken addictions to specific foods, continue with those good practices. Let the lessons you learned during your Daniel Fast continue to bring more health to your body, soul and spirit all year long. Rev. Carolyn Williams 18 31

19 21 Day Daniel Fast January 22, Day 21 Surpassing Faith: Overcoming Obstacles By faith the walls of Jericho fell after they had been encircled for seven days. -Hebrews 11:30 21 Day Daniel Fast January 11, Day 10 Strengthening Family: Ingredients For a Life Of Peace Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. -Philippians 4:6 NIV Jericho was a frontier fortress city, located strategically near the mouth of the Jordon River. Its walls were designed to protect it from the strongest enemy attack. By the standards of that day, the city was virtually impregnable. Jericho was the first obstacle the Israelites faced in Canon. One of the most amazing things about Joshua 6 th Chapter is not a single word of doubt or complaint is recorded. All God wanted from them was faith; (and this they gave) for by faith the walls of Jericho fell down. There is faith that receives, when we come empty-handed to Christ for salvation. There is faith that reckons, that counts on God to undertake for us. There is faith that rests the kind that in the midst of suffering, pain and rejection waits in confidence for God to deliver. There is faith risk, that which moves out in Gods power, daring to do the impossible. Every Christian will have Jericho experiences. If we trust in the Lord and demonstrate our faith by courageously continuing to do what the Lord has called us to do, in Gods own time the obstacles will surely fall. Prayer: Father of life, and God of the living, fountain of our being and light of all our day, we thank you Lord for our knowledge of you which lights our life with eternal splendor. We praise you for the stirring of the gifts that lay hidden inside of us. We thank you for the faith of our ancestors who preceded us. We thank you for times past when we had to learn to walk by faith. And now since Christ has risen from his tomb to reign forever in the hearts of men, we are confident that all dark and hostile circumstances shall be transformed and work for good to those who know the secret of your love. Amen! A believer s journey of Faith at times can be tough. Everyday it s harder for many believers to live Separated and to bear the Cross. Not in the background in the minds of believers, but in the forefront of their thinking. "Do not be anxious about anything means don't worry. Family, worry means you are not convinced that what God is offering is truly enough. "Anxious" in the Greek translation here means to be troubled with cares. GOD is ready, willing and able, if you trust Him with your cares. So our peace comes as Jesus says, not as the world gives peace. He says don't let your hearts be troubled and don't let them be afraid. When we try to our find peace in the world it causes confusion, fear and frustration and our hearts have anxiety. At those moments we should say to ourselves, you know what; I see this for what it is. Then say, Father, I am going to find my peace in you. If you do, you ll be able to trust God beyond your ability to know. It s helpful when you are looking to get your mind off of the challenges you re facing in the mist of life s anxieties, to spend some time in God s presence. Sing a song; put on an instrumental or worship CD, whatever works for you and just start worshiping God. Focus on the goodness of the Lord in and around you. When we take the time to praise him, in his presence, you will find a peace that comes flooding in. This scripture gives us the INGREDIENTS for living a life of peace. Don t be anxious for anything; pray about it; bring it to God, and offer thanks giving. The promise of this verse should be an encouragement and a reminder for how we should live each and every day to the glory of God. Prayer: Lord, help us not be anxious about anything, by resting in your peace. As we study your Word, allow it to flow over our family and soak into our lives. In every situation, remind us that while we are trying to figure things out, you have already worked it out for our good. In our worship and during our time of quietness before you Lord, remind us to continually call on the Name of Jesus for our help. All of our help come from the Lord. Amen Rev. D Andrea Daniels 30 Rev. Melvin Butler 19

20 21 Day Daniel Fast January 12, Day 11 Superior Fitness: Diets Don't Work But Jesus Does Then Jesus said, Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light. -Matthew 11:29-30 I still chuckle at the cartoon strip where Garfield remarked, "Diet is the word die with a t at the end." But hundreds of years before a cartoon strip about a fat orange cat entered into the imagination of cartoonist Jim Davis, the Apostle Paul said, "...for the letter kills but the Spirit gives life. (2 Corinthians 3:6b) Why don't diets work? I'll give you three reasons why. First, they're legalistic: Don't eat this; don't drink that; stay away from this; measure that; weight this, and so on. We tend to focus on the negative (what we can't eat) rather than on the positive- everything in moderation. Once we embark on a diet, eating becomes an occasion for fighting temptation, anxiety, dread, guilt, shame and failure rather than a time for pleasure, enjoyment, and thanksgiving to a gracious God. Second, diets don't work because they militate against our very nature. Remember, we're sheep not goats. Goats must be driven but sheep prefer to be led. A diet mercilessly drives an individual but a lifestyle, characterized by godliness, leads an individual to make healthy and wise choices about food. What does a healthy-eating lifestyle that pleases God look like? Meals comprised of broiled meats and lots of fruits and vegetables and exercise (yes, exercise). Practical and easy, right? Third, diets work us rather than the other way around! After the exile the Pharisees developed the Mitzvoth (613 commandments) that pious Jews were obliged to observe to be regarded as righteous before God. The problem was that being "yoked" in this way, their focus was on the law and not on the Lawgiver. Their focus was on the rules rather than on a relationship with the Divine. Jesus invites us into a relationship with Him that isn't complex and burdensome but simple. When we make Jesus Lord of our lives we trade willpower for His-power. Jesus promises to go to partner with us for success at the dinner table and in the gym because, "... it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose. (Philippians 2:13) Prayer: Gracious God and Shepherd, by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, help us to make healthy choices so that even our eating might be pleasing in Your sight. In Jesus' name and the power therein we pray. Amen. 21 Day Daniel Fast January 21, Day 20 Soaring Finance: The Abundant Blessing Plan All these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the LORD your God.. -Deuteronomy 28:2 The Abundant Blessing Plan has been described as a sure way to receive financial blessings from the Lord. There are testimonies of those who have read or prayed Deuteronomy 28:1-14 on a consistent basis and began to receive financial blessings. Well, it s usually called Blessings for Obedience. The Word of God tells us that God can do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we can ask or think. You must have faith in God, Jehovah Jireh, our Provider who is the God of more than enough and believe God to supply our every need especially financially. God is the Source of our every need. God s abundant supply of blessings includes tithing. Whenever we don t tithe it is robbing God. When we rob God, we rob ourselves of His abundant blessings. We must pay a price of sacrifice and giving. The Abundant Blessing Plan says we are blessed in the city and blessed in the field; you are blessed coming in and going out and the Lord will make us the head, and not the tail; you shall be only at the top, and not at the bottom. There are blessings for being obedient. Prayer: Almighty God, I shall seek first Your kingdom as I press forward toward the mark of the prize of a higher calling in Christ Jesus, and as I embark upon the new year of I decree and declare Your Word that You will make me abound in prosperity and in all that I undertake or set my hands to do. I shall earnestly remember You Lord for it is You Who gives me power to get wealth. Everyday in everyway I shall prosper and soar in my finances in quantum leaps and bounds, in Jesus name. Amen. Rev. Veronica Y. Manigo 20 Rev. Patricia Montgomery 29