Destiny Covenant Church
First Fruits Fast
2018
As we prepare to enter a new year, let us go in with spiritual focus and discipline. Starting the year this way sets the stage for all that we will expect from God and believe in him for this new year.
This year, in order to encourage more of us to participate, the fast will last for only 20 days beginning January 11 and ending January 31.
The fasting option that you choose will dictate what time it starts on the first day and ends on the last.
I encourage you to stay true to your commitment; you’re the only one who will benefit and on the other hand, lose, if you cheat!
Be prepared to share a brief testimony during Sunday worship service about what God is revealing to you.
Purpose:
Fasting is the process of denying self and sacrificing food to gain spiritual power, discipline and self-control. By fasting you gain control over your physical appetite, which provides you with experience for controlling your spiritual appetite and spiritual diet. During the fast the following should be observed: (1) read selected scriptures and make daily affirmations (2) pray three times daily with your prayer partner, and/or prayer group (3) listen to and watch only spiritually uplifting music and programs (turn off the noise so that you can hear God).
Prayer:
Pray daily for spiritual cleansing and spiritual renewal. With spiritual renewal comes the awareness of how we’re operating outside of the perfect will of God and helps to bring us back in line.
Restrictions:
Apply discipline.
None of the following devitalized foods, snacks and beverages should be consumed: fried foods, sweets (cakes, pies, cookies, etc.), sugar, sweeteners, candy, snacks (chips, pretzels, popcorn, nuts, etc) soda, coffee, punch drinks, and caffeine teas.
Replace these foods with fresh fruits and vegetables, natural-unsweetened juices, decaffeinated teas, and baked, steamed or broiled foods.
Guarantee:
Remaining committed to the fast increases focus, energy, self-discipline and spiritual empowerment, thus enabling one to do God’s will and maintain a Godly example for others.
Expect miracles and share your praise reports and testimonies.
The following program is designed to provide you with options to meet the challenge of fasting for every current dietary habit. You may alter the program by choosing any single option or a combination of the options for the week. For example, you may choose Option 1 for the entire week or you may choose Option 1 for the first three (3) days then Option 3 for the last 4 days. Whether you are vegetarian or a meat eater, you can select the option(s) most suitable and challenging for you. This program does not prescribe or diagnose. Consult your physician.
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Option 1: Eat after 6pm. No red meat
No eating between 6am and 6pm. Drink natural-unsweetened juices* and spring water throughout the day. If you are a red meat eater, replace it with fish or poultry after 6pm. Consume more fresh fruits & veggies. Avoid eating after 10pm.
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Option 2: Fruit, Vegetables & Liquids
Eat all raw and steamed fruits & veggies of your choice throughout the day and drink natural-unsweetened juices and spring water. No heavy sauces, heavy salad dressings or condiments on food. Avoid salt and spicy foods.
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Option 3: Juices & Spring Water Only**
Natural unsweetened juices and spring water only. A juicer would be ideal. Do not mix fruit and vegetable juice together to avoid stomach irritation. No solid foods.
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*Juices should not include additives or sweeteners such as sugar, fructose, corn syrup or sodium.
**An absolute fast (water only) is not recommended for more than 3 days at a time.
Suggested Scriptures
Psalm 139:1-24
Proverbs 3:5
Psalm 37:23
Matthew 17:21
Matthew 16:24, Mark 8:34, Luke 9:23
Isaiah 40:17-31
Read these scriptures daily and meditate on what God is saying to you through these scriptures.
Add a few of your own to them but not too many.
Repetition in the word imbeds it in your heart.
Suggested Reading: Fasting, by Jentezen Franklin
