Fast

Last January Ryan and I joined the AWAKENING movement and did a 21 day spiritual Daniel fast*. I had never done a fast before so the idea scared me to death. We made it through all 21 days and went on the have the most amazing year of our lives together.

As this January approached we both knew we were all in. How could we even think of going into this new year without seeking God’s will in this powerful way? In a way, it’s like there’s no turning back.

It’s just that awesome of an experience.

I will say that is is HARD. All I do is think about food. But that is where you meet GOD. With every thought of food, you pray – simply talk to God. In essence, you’re in constant communication with HIM. Kind of like we’re in constant communication with one another in society these days.

When I saw this quote about JOY I immediately thought of the fast. There is suffering. And while it might not sound JOYFUL, to most it probably sounds painful – but there is an incredible and indescribable JOY in being in the presence of GOD all day.

It is helpful if there is a specific thing you are praying for during the fast. That way, when you think about food and turn to God, you know exactly what to start talking about.

Last year I prayed for acceptance of this “new life” that I felt God was showing me. I just kept hearing, “THIS is what I have for you.” I didn’t know exactly what “this” was but I really wanted to step out and take find “this” .

I’m fairly certain I saw some of what “this” was throughout the rest of the year.

• I’ve moved out of my dream home and into a, well lets just say, smaller – more humble home.
• We are super close to being 100% financially free
• My husband is in Seminary and working as Life Group Pastor at our church
• I’m working days again

I can’t even IMAGINE what I’ll be reflecting back on as I start 2013. I would have never dreamed 2011 would be what it was.

“God can do anything, you know – far more than you can ever imagine, or guess, or request in your wildest dreams!” Ephesians 3:20

This year, Ryan and I are praying for our children’s education and general direction in raising them. I’ll get more specific over the next 21 days, as I hope to journal through it all here on the blog.

Think about joining in. Maybe it’s just for 3 days. Or 7 days. Or even if it’s not food – but something instead, like Facebook.  You won’t regret it.

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*Specifically the Daniel fast is where you eat nothing but fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. No meat. No dairy. No bread. Nothing processed. I’ll post more on this specifically very soon. Like later today. Maybe. Both kids are home.