As the new year approaches, I think about fasting. I don't like it, but I know I need it. Our society offers us too much of everything - food, entertainment, activities of all kinds, and noise. The consequence? Our mental and physical health suffers.

I plan to fast during the first three weeks  January - please consider joining me.

Why fast?

Fasting re-sets our system and restores our equilibrium. We see Jesus fasting as a way of drawing near to the Father and sharpening his spiritual focus. And throughout the Bible we see examples of God's people fasting.

Job 23:12 says: "I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." Fasting turbo-charges your spirit, connecting you to God and satisfying your spiritual hunger even as you experience physical hunger.

Recently, science has shown the benefits of intermittent fasting - it boosts your immune system, you experience greater weight loss, and your mind is sharper. Fast for 16 hours by skipping breakfast, and then eat during eight hours (for example, from 10am till 6pm). More about intermittent fasting here.

Ten years ago I blogged about fasting. Here is an excerpt.

Kinds of fast? 

Total fast - no foods, just water. If you do this for more than a few days, consult with your doctor.

Juice fast - consume only fruit and vegetable juices. Most Americans eat a lot of processed foods. Juice fasts are a good means of detoxing.

The Daniel fast - based on what Daniel ate in the first chapter of Daniel in the Bible. Daniel challenged King Nebuchadnezzar's royal foods and ate vegetables and water for 10 days saying if in the 10 days he didn't look better than the ones eating the royal foods, then they could do with him as they saw fit.

Daniel stepped out in faith believing God had called him to eat such a diet and would protect him. God did just that and Daniel's skin looked healthier than those eating the choice royal foods. Daniel 1:17 clearly verifies that God rewards obedience by opening doors for young Daniel. Daniel continued with his diet and worshiping God while growing in favor with the Babylonians and God was glorified!

Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains only. Basically eliminating meats, dairy, sweets, fried foods, sugar, soda, etc.

Here's the bottom line:

When I am actively seeking God I can hear his voice better. When I am passive in my relationship I too frequently miss a lot of what God wants to share with me. Why not go to another level with the Lord? Join me in bringing in 2019 with a fast. Join our Facebook group here.

* If you decide to fast, please let me know and we can encourage one another.