HOW CAN I JOIN IN ON THIS 21 DAYS OF FASTING AND PRAYER?

1. MAKE A PERSONAL COMMITMENT to fast during the 21 days.

“Fasting” simply means giving up the feeding of an appetite, then setting aside specific times to read the Bible and to pray (both individually and with a group). You can fast from meats and sweets, entertainment and social media, or any number of appetites or activities that are a part of your daily routine. The point is not what you are giving up, but what you are going to do with the time you gain. Let this be a challenge to focus our time and attention on God.

2. IN PREPARATION for the fast, read Psalm 51 and Isaiah 58.

These Bible passages explain that God isn’t interested in our pious sacrifices for Him, but in our obedience and willingness to do what he asks. God wants us to become more like Him. That requires letting go of our own agenda and being “remade” to look, act, and think like Him. That requires time, attention, and discipline.

3. MARK YOUR CALENDAR for weekly prayer gatherings or organize your own.

Area pastors will be hosting group prayer times each Sunday at 6:00 p.m. at different locations. At these gatherings, pastors will provide an atmosphere of worship, a brief teaching or encouragement on fasting, and an extended time of focused prayer. Please make an effort to attend these gatherings, but also feel free to organize your own prayer times at home or with your small group.

4. PAUSE FOR PRAYER every day at 7:14 a.m. and 7:14 p.m.

As another way to unify our church community during the 21 days, we’re encouraging the entire church to pause for prayer at 7:14 a.m. & 7:14 p.m. every day. We chose this time based on 2 Chronicles 7:14, and it’s a simple way to begin and end your day with prayer.

5. USE THE PRAYER GUIDE for daily topics and weekly themes.

We have provided weekly devotional thoughts and daily prayer requests to unify our church during this time of fasting and prayer. Keep it convenient to help you stay focused each day.

HOW SHOULD I FAST AND PRAY?

People should only fast and pray if they believe God has called them to do so. We cannot force people to observe this 21-Day Fast, it must be their desire to do so, and for the right reasons.
Every person that participates in this 21-Day Fast must clearly understand “why” we are fasting and “what” we are fasting for.
As a leader, endeavor to do the “water and juices only” fast for 21-days.
We need to identify, confess, and repent of all revealed sin before and during the 21-Day Fast. Disobedience will greatly hinder our prayer and fasting!
Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit's prompting in all areas of your life, since God will often require you to seek reconciliation or restoration in broken relationships.
Be in a “mindset” of prayer thought the 21-Day Fast. Have consistent, appointed times of purposeful, fervent prayer.
Read and study God’s Word; especially as the Holy Spirit directs you specifically to areas of scripture that will bring enlightenment.
Skipping meals alone will not result in a meaningful fast! You must set aside time to pray and seek spiritual insights. Dedicate at least as much time as you would normally spend in food preparation and eating for prayer and the study of God's word.
Keep a journal of your purposes for the fast. This should contain specific prayer requests, written prayer, devotional thoughts, and spiritual insights you are gaining during your fast. Include the specific day and time in the journal entry. These daily writings will be a consistent source of encouragement, strength, and insight long after the fast has ended, reminding you very specifically of God's direction and calling for your life.
Consider praying audibly in a kneeling position. At times, try getting on your face before God. This may help foster an attitude of humility in prayer and keep you focused on your purposes.
Incorporate worship, even singing, in your times of prayer.
When the fast has ended, be careful to note several specific things God has revealed to you and write down the process or action you need to take to see them implemented.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR A FAST PHYSICALLY?

As a precautionary measure, you may need to check with your doctor before beginning your first fast, especially if you plan to participate for 21-days by drinking water and juices only.
Several excellent books have been written regarding the physical benefits alone of fasting over a period of time. I highly recommend you read the book, “Toxic Relief” by Dr. Don Colbert.[1]
Eat mainly raw foods and drinking plenty of water for a few meals, and perhaps for a week, before you begin your fast. (Fact: your body needs at least 2 quarts of water per day to sustain life!)
Decrease the size and frequency of meals before beginning your fast, especially a prolonged fast, but continue to drink plenty of water.
Avoid chewing gum during the fast. Chewing activates the digestive processes.
Days two through four of the fast are often the most challenging as you may experience headaches, slight dizziness, and other such symptoms. Expect some physical, mental and perhaps, even some emotional discomfort. Also, sleeplessness and irritability often accompany a fast, but don't allow the fast to become an excuse for improper actions and attitudes.
When drinking juice during this fast, unsweetened and non-acidic juices are best. Tomato and orange juices are hard on the stomach, unless greatly diluted. Do not drink coffee or tea- however, herbal teas are fine.
You may need to restrict some of your physical activity during the fast, especially rigorous exercise.
You will likely experience some weight loss during a fast, but the weight usually returns quickly once the fast is broken.
It's important always to consider the feelings of others, particularly family members, when planning a fast; especially if “special events” have been planned that you need to participate in.
Some people, even those with good intentions, may try to keep you from fasting; others may encourage you to end your fast before the appointed time. You should anticipate this and be prepared with a kind, yet resolved, response.
End the fast, especially an extended one like 21-days, gradually. You will need to wait five or more days before returning to a full meal. So, during that time eat foods that are easily digested. Returning to normal eating patterns too quickly after a fast can cause serious medical problems, and may also minimize some of the physical benefits of the fast.