LET’S MAKE IT COUNTstorage.cloversites.com/thebreakthroughproject... · Another important guideline is drawn from the Jewish principles of fasting, where no leaven is used during

The Breakthrough Fellowship presents:

The Breakthrough Fast 201221 Days of Fasting, Prayer and Personal Reflection

January 2—22, 2012

Rev. Charles A. Maxell, Jr. Founder & Senior PastorJennifer Watley Maxell, Co- Founder

www.thebreakthroughfellowship.org

LET’S MAKE

IT COUNT

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Special Thanks

A special thanks to my mother, Rev. Bernese Shaw, for your many contributions to this work. You continue to be my example of humility and what it means to serve others. Thank you to Rev. AnneMarie Mingo and Helaina Jolly-Triche for contributing to this devotional guide. I would like also to thank Tracey Willis and Sou Brune for your editorial and graphic contributions. Let me also thank The Breakthrough FellowshipFamily. Your support, resources, love and encouragement make this happen. And finally, let me thank my wife and the co-founder of The Breakthrough Fellowship, Jennifer Watley Maxell. Thank you for supporting me through the years and for believing in a country boy from Midway, Georgia.

To God be the Glory; for the great things He has done.

Rev. CAM

Dear Breakthrough Partners:

It is estimated that thousands of Christian people around the world will start the 2012 New Year with prayer and fasting. Many will join their church family in corporate fasting and others will enter the fast as part of their personal spiritual devotion. Starting January 2, 2012, I invite you to join me and The Breakthrough Fellowship on a 21-day fast (The Daniel Fast) to seek God and honor God for the New Year.

The theme for Breakthrough Fast 2012 is --- Let’s Make It Count!

With all the responsibilities and deadlines we face each day; it is easy to get caught up in the monotony of life, put blinders on and stop living life to its fullest. I was talking with someone the other day and I asked, “How are you doing?” He responded, “Just living life.” That is okay, I guess; but I truly believe God wants so much more for us. God wants us to thrive! Fasting is one of the most powerful weapons that God has given us to fight the “blahs” of life.

In years past, we have experienced breakthroughs and miracles as we chose to put God first at the onset of the year. I believe with all my heart that for the church to prevail in this next season, a culture of prayer and fasting is vital. I am also extremely excited that my father-in-law, Rev. Dr. William D. Watley, Senior Pastor of Saint Philip AME Church, Atlanta, GA, and the Saint Philip Church family have decided to join us in this season of fasting. Our goal is to have over 10,000 people join us in this fast by 2014. Praise God; we are halfway there.

Over the next 21 days, I will be blogging about my spiritual journey, sharing stories from others and providing helpful tips and recipes to assist you in the fast. I encourage you to read along daily with me and share it with a friend. Better yet, send me an email and share your story. You can also follow me on Twitter, Facebook and/or access our website for more information (see below).

As you fast, pray for God’s direction and guidance. Pray for the discipline to walk in the vision God has given you. Life is not a dress rehearsal --- Let’s Make It Count!

Blessings,

Rev. CAM

Rev. CAM’s Blog: http://breakthroughproject.blogspot.comEmail: [email protected]: www.thebreakthroughfellowship.orgTwitter: charlesmaxellFacebook: Charles A Maxell Jr.

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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, 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.

Be sure to consult your doctor before beginning any fast, especially if you have any type of medical condition.

The normal fast is going without food for a definite period during which you ingest only liquids (water and/or juice). The duration can be 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 1 month or 40 days. Extreme care should be taken with longer fasts, which should only be attempted after medical advice from your physician.

The absolute fast allows no food or water at all, and should be short. Moses fasted for 40 days, but this would be a challenge for anyone without supernatural intervention. Be sure to consult medical advice before trying a 40-day fast, even if it includes liquids.

The partial fast is one that omits certain foods or is on a schedule that includes limited eating. Elijah practiced partial fasts at least twice. John the Baptist and Daniel with his three friends are other examples of those who participated in partial fasts. The most frequently used example of a partial fast is found in Daniel chapter 10.

A rotational fast consists of eating or omitting certain families of foods for designated periods. For example, grains may be eaten only every fourth day. The various food families are rotated so that some food is available each day.

What is Fasting?

Four Kinds of Fasts

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What is the Daniel Fast?

In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks.

I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth,

Nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.

Daniel 10:2- 3

The Daniel Fast is a biblically based partial fast. It is a method of fasting that men, women and young people all over the world are using as they enter into the spiritual discipline of prayer and fasting. The easiest way to think of the Daniel Fast is eating only vegetables and fruits, and drinking only water.

There are two anchoring scriptures for the Daniel Fast. In Daniel 1 (specifically Daniel 1:12-13) the Prophet (Daniel) ate only vegetables (that would have included fruits) and drank only water. So from these scriptures we get two of the guidelines for the fast:

1. Only fruits and vegetables.

2. Only water for a beverage. No sodas or alcoholic beverages.

Then in Daniel 10 (specifically Daniel 10:2-3) we read that the Prophet ate no meat nor any precious breads or foods and he drank no wine for 21 days. So from this scripture, we get a third guideline:

3. No sweeteners (including artificial) and no breads are allowed on the Daniel Fast.

Another important guideline is drawn from the Jewish principles of fasting, where no leaven is used during the fast. So that's why yeast, baking powder and the like are not allowed on the Daniel Fast. Be sure to read the ingredients on labels of prepared foods to make sure they only include Daniel Fast friendly ingredients.

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Preparation for the Daniel Fast

During the Daniel Fast you will not consume any sugar or sweeten-ers of any kind, nor will you have any caffeine or artificial chemicals. Many people experience a physical detox during the first few days of the fast including headaches, fatigue, leg cramps and other typical symptoms. You can reduce these effects by weaning yourself from these foods before the fast begins and also by drinking at least 1/2 gallon of filtered water each day before, during and after the fasting period. Anytime you have concerns about symptoms you may be experiencing, please be sure to contact your healthcare professional. Fasting should never be harmful to the body.

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The Daniel Fast is a very healthy way to eat and is full of nutritious and healthy foods. However, if you have special dietary needs, please consult your health professional before you start this fast. You can then modify the fast to meet your specific health needs.

*We recognize that fasting is a lifestyle into which we must grow. As a result, we have chosen to allow the optional eating of a fish. If you choose to eat fish, we ask that you limit your intake of fish to no more than twice a week and adhere to God’s instructions as found in Leviticus 11: 9-10: “These you may eat, of all that are in the waters. Everything in the waters that has fins and scales, whether in the seas or in the streams—such you may eat. But anything in the seas or the streams that does not have fins and scales, of the swarming creatures in the waters and among all the other living creatures that are in the waters—they are detestable to you.”

The Daniel Fast Food List

Foods to include in your Daniel Fast

ALL FRUITS. These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Fruits in-clude but are not limited to apples, apricots, bananas, blackberries, boysen-berries, cantaloupe, cherries, cranberries, figs, grapefruit, grapes, guava, hon-eydew melon, kiwi, 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, broc-coli, 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, rad-ishes, rutabagas, sprouts, scallions, spinach, squashes, sweet potatoes, toma-toes, turnips, watercress, yams, zucchini, veggie burgers are an option if you are not allergic to soy.


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ALL WHOLE GRAINS. Including but not limited to whole wheat, brown rice,

millet, quinoa, oats, barley, grits, whole wheat pasta, whole wheat tortillas, rice cakes and popcorn.

ALL NUTS AND SEEDS. Including but not limited to sunflower seeds, cash-

ews, peanuts, sesame. Also nut butters including peanut butter.

ALL LEGUMES. These can be canned or dried. Legumes include but are not limited to dried beans, pinto beans, split peas, lentils, black eyed peas, kidney beans, black beans, cannellini beans, white beans.

ALL QUALITY OILS. Includes but not limited to olive, canola, grape seed,

peanut, and sesame.

BEVERAGES. Spring water, distilled water or other pure waters.

OTHER. Tofu, soy products, vinegar, seasonings, salt, herbs and spices.

*The Fish Option: Limit intake of fish to no more than twice a week. Ab-

stain from shellfish, catfish and any other fish or seafood that is a scavenger or does not have fins or scales.

Foods to avoid during the Daniel Fast

ALL MEAT AND ANIMAL PRODUCTS: including but not limited to beef,

lamb, pork, poultry, and fish.

ALL DAIRY PRODUCTS: including but not limited to milk, cheese, cream, butter, and eggs.

ALL SWEETENERS: including but not limited to sugar, raw sugar, honey, syrups, molasses, and cane juice.

ALL LEAVENED BREAD: including but not limited to Ezekiel Bread (it

contains yeast and honey) 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.

ALL SOLID FATS: including shortening, margarine, lard and foods high in

fat.

BEVERAGES: Including but not limited to coffee, tea, herbal teas, carbonated beverages, energy drinks, and alcohol.

Remember to READ THE LABELS!


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A Message to Families about Prayer and Fasting Together…

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Your children may wonder if this is something that they can do along with you, and the answer is yes! Explain to your children that fasting will help them grow stronger as a Christian and closer to Jesus. When they take special time out to pray to Jesus and at the same time, take special effort to not enjoy a favorite food/snack item or activity during a certain period of time, they are fasting. As a family, sit down together and talk about for whom or what your children are seeking God and in which way they are going to fast. Then, have your children write down their decisions on the card, just like you are doing and seal it in a self-addressed envelope. We will collect the sealed envelopes in The Breakthrough Kids. Explain to your chil-dren that there will be times when they will find it hard to fast and may even want to change their minds in the middle of the fast. However, as parents, gently encourage them and help them keep the commitment they made to the Lord and see how God answers their prayers. Following the 21 Days of Fasting and Praying, sit down with your children and talk with them about what the Lord did during this special time.

Before you begin the 21 Day Breakthrough Prayer Guide keep in mind your family’s schedule and decide which days of the week you are going to meet together to pray. Be sure to explain in simple words the prayer emphasis for that particular day, so your children can be a part of the prayer time.

Remember that a child’s body needs the proper nutrition and activity as well as rest to keep them healthy and whole. They don’t need to fast complete meals or healthy food choices for days at a time or give up the exercise that playtime affords. Children respond best with a set schedule, so be sure to create one where they will know which days during the 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting that they will be fasting and what exactly they are fasting.

Here are some fasting suggestions for children:

1. Their favorite cartoon or TV program.

2. No TV, texting or electronics on a specific day/night. Use this time to play games or spend quality family time together.

3. No “Fast Foods” for all or part of the 21 days.

4. A special treat or snack (candy, cookies, sweets, etc.).

FASTING IS BIBLICAL. (Daniel 2:2-3)

FAST AS A SPIRITUAL COMMITMENT. (Daniel 1:8)

BE SPECIFIC AND MAKE A VERBAL COMMITMENT TO THE LORD:

Fasting for a Financial Breakthrough

Fasting for Restoration in Your Relationships

Fasting for Your Family (especially Your Children)

Fasting for a Spiritual Breakthrough

Fasting to Discover God's Will for Your Life

Fasting for Supernatural Healing

Fasting for the Discipline to Walk in the Vision that God has Given You

Fasting involves a spiritual commitment to God. Be clear and follow the guidelines of your commitment. “Daniel proposed in his heart that he would not defile himself” Daniel 1:8

Before beginning a fast, write down a plan and make a verbal commitment to the Lord.

When you approach your fast with determination, and a clear goal you’ll be less likely to waiver in weak moments.

When you have a clear goal, you will be less like to waiver.

The Breakthrough Fast 2012 ContractLet’s Make It Count!

21 Days of Prayer, Fasting and Personal Reflection

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My cause or reason for fasting:

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I will fast: Begin Date: ______________ End Date: ______________

Who will I ask to fast with me, if anyone?

_______________________________________________________

By the strength and grace of God I commit to the above fast.

_______________________________________________________

Signed ___________________________________________________________

Date ___________________________________

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21 Day Breakthrough Prayer GuideBreakthrough Fast 2012: Let’s Make It Count!

Day 1 – January 2, 2012“Let’s Start Afresh”

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Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4 dfgjfdlsgjljfgslkfjglfsdkgjsdf

There is power in God's Word. His word is clear and transforming. When we genuinely invite God into our lives, we become reborn. The acceptance of His love causes us to become forever changed. When we welcome Christ into our hearts, an old life ends and a new way of living along with a completely new way of viewing the world begins afresh. This is the year (2012) to get rid of anything that blocks our newness of life in Christ. Each morning offers a fresh opportunity to invite Christ, yet once again, to rule over our hearts and our day; we give it all to Him. Each morning presents yet another opportunity to take up the cross of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and follow in His footsteps. Today, let us rejoice in the new life that is ours through Jesus Christ, and let us follow Him, step by step, on the path that He has already opened for us to walk. This is the day to start afresh.

Rev. Bernese Shaw

Let Us Pray: Father as I continue on the Daniel Fast for the 21 days, Lord I’m praying for you to throw the sins and transgressions that I may have caused to be cast away in the sea of forgiveness. Lord let me start afresh in my walk with you today. AMEN.


Day 2 – January 3, 2012“The Question”

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“Why do you fast? Do you think you gain anything from it?” These were the “innocent” questions a co-worker asked me. At first, I was taken aback. It was not that I didn’t have an answer. What struck me about her question was the opportunity. It offered me a chance to witness.

I admit, I thought she was trying to be sarcastic. But the more we talked the more I discovered that she was searching for answers that I had already discovered. She was searching for the answers that prayer gives. She was searching for the answers that are found in God’s Word. So, instead of getting mad or blowing off her question, I shared with her my story.

I shared with her how fasting at the beginning of 2011 opened up so many doors for me and how my career, my ministry and my family were blessed by my act of worship and obedience. I shared with her how fasting removes the clutter from my life. I shared with her my belief that fasting is one of the most powerful weapons that God has given us to fight the Adversary. I shared with her how people of faith around the world are fasting at this time in worship and reverence to God. And I shared with her how excited I was about fasting again this year; about the new visions and the new purpose God was revealing to me for 2012.

I’m not sure my witness made her a believer. But I thank God for the question. For without the question, I would not have had the chance to tell someone about the joy of knowing Jesus Christ! During this period of fasting, share your story with someone.

Rev. Charles Maxell, Jr.

Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, when I asked the question “why do I fast?” is it because I want to clean myself of any impurities that stand between you and me? Or do I have another reason? Open my heart and mind according to your Word and your teaching. I thank you for the opportunity to purify my-self in you. I praise you O Lord. AMEN.

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Day 3 – January 4, 2012“A New Me”

So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation, everything has become new! 2 Corinthians 5:17

2012 is a new year with all of the old problems left behind in 2011. The old person, before we knew the Lord has been left behind. The new person is when you have given yourself to the Lord. So is there a difference between the old you and the new and improved version? There should be! And that difference should be noticeable not only to you but also to others. The scripture above clearly teaches us that when we welcome Christ into our hearts, we become new creations through Him. Our challenge today on the Daniel Fast is to pray for forgiveness and opening of our hearts and souls to the teaching of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. When we behave according to the image of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, then the Lord will fill our hearts. He blesses our endeavors, and He transforms our lives.

Rev. Bernese Shaw

Let Us Pray: Lord, today I pray for the transformation of my soul to become a new creation in you. Lord, I leave all of the old stuff back in 2011 and pray that 2012 reveals the creation of a new me. In Jesus name, I pray. AMEN.

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Day 4 – January 5, 2012“A New Purpose”

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Jeremiah 29:11

Each day on the Daniel Fast should bring a new purpose of cleanliness and forgiveness. Each day we fast with prayer and praise to bring us closer to God. People in the Bible also had different purposes for their lives. There was Jacob, who wrestled with the angel of the Lord in Genesis 32. There was Moses, who talked to a burning bush in Exodus 3, and Paul, who was temporarily blinded in Acts 9. Their stories were different, but all had a change of purpose when their encounter with God sent them down a new path. We too may experience circumstances that change the course of our lives. But God reminds us that he loved us before we loved him. So give all of your worries and fears over to the Lord because he cares about you as seen in 1John 4:19, Jer. 29:11, 1 Peter 5:7, and John 10:10. As you hold onto God's promises, ask Him to reveal new direction and purpose for your life. Keep your eyes on the Lord and you won't lose sight of the purpose the Lord has for your life.

Rev. Bernese Shaw

Let Us Pray: Lord I pray today to follow the purpose that you have already ordained for my life. I will give you all honor and glory that You, O Lord, so rightly deserve. AMEN.

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Day 5 – January 6, 2012“Get Your Mind Right”

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2 (NIV)

It is only five days in, but by now many of us are already close to giving up on some of the things that we said we would do in the New Year. We established goals, articulated dreams, made plans, and we are already on the verge of giving up because it is taking more than we imagined. The word for today is to Get Your Mind Right! The New Year does not automatically transform you into a new you. Without help, it is easy to fall back into old patterns, that have become easy and comfortable, even if they are no longer a part of God’s will for our lives.

If God has given you a vision and helped you to write it and make it plain, it is time for you to Get Your Mind Right! Now is not the time to remain where you have been, now is the time to stretch out and reach for the things that God has shown you. Now is not the time to be turned away from the dream simply because it may require more of you than you expected, now is the time to ask God for the strength to keep pressing toward the mark of the prize.

The scriptures remind us that God’s will and vision for your life is good, pleasing and perfect, but the way that we will understand this, and not give up on the vision at the first sign of opposition is to allow God to transform our thinking and renew our mind. If God has shown you a vision and placed a dream in your heart, it is time for you to Get Your Mind Right, and not allow the experiences of the past, or the limitations of thoughts to block the greatness that God can do both in and through you. If God has said yes, and all you hear in your mind is no, it is time to Get Your Mind Right! If God has said go, and all you hear in your mind is stay, it is time to Get Your Mind Right! If God has said you can, and all you hear in your mind is you can’t, it is time to Get Your Mind Right! There is a reason that your dreams have not died. What God has placed in you, God will bring out of you…transform your thinking and let God transform your life. Get Your Mind Right!

Rev. AnneMarie Mingo

Let Us Pray: God, sometimes my mind is on everything but you. I get distracted by things on my job, things in my family, things on the television and internet, and anything else that easily grabs my attention. But I have not been able to shake the vision that you have given me, and I know that your vision for my life is greater than the one that I have for myself. So, I ask that you help me get my mind right. God transform my life by transforming my mind, so that I may stay in your perfect will. AMEN.

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Day 6 – January 7, 2012“Open Your Hands”

Recently, my son Max asked me for some candy. First, I thought “I can’t believe he is asking me for some candy. Doesn’t he know that I’m fasting?” But you know kids...they ask for what they want. Anyway, me being the good father, I said ok. As I reached to give Max the candy, he fell out on the floor. “I don’t want that one, I want this one.” And let me tell you...that little boy wouldn’t take it. Instead, he closed his hands and folded his arms. I said, “Max, open your hands so I can give you the candy.” But he refused. “That is not the one I wanted,” he screamed. Instead of getting irate or taking my candy and walking away, I said, “Son. It is too bad that you didn’t take the one I gave you. To be honest, because I love you so, I was going to give you this candy, the one you wanted and so much more.”

Beloved, that is how we are sometimes. We ask God for blessings, break-throughs, visions and deliverance. But when God doesn’t give us what we want the way we want it, we “close our hands”, pout and tell God that we don’t want it. But I hate to tell you...fasting without prayer won’t give you what you want. You might lose weight but it won’t get you closer to God. Asking God for a financial breakthrough won’t happen if you are not willing to sacrifice your wants in order to receive your needs. Removing depression, loneliness and anxiety from our lives won’t happen if we are not willing to surrender our hurts and fears to the Lord. And I don’t care how hard you work, until you “open your hands” to the Lord, God will never be able to pour into them or your family, your marriage, your relationships, your business or your career, “a blessing you would not be able to receive.” (Reference from Malachi 3:10)


Let Us Pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for being a loving Father even when we don’t want to accept your blessings. Thank you for not leaving us by our-selves. AMEN.

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Day 7 – January 8, 2012“We Need It All”

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

In our youth, we believe all things are possible. Words of encouragement from our parents serve as the foundation for our belief that we can do and achieve everything we set our mind to; in that setting, our self-esteem flourishes. As we grow into adulthood, the world and sometimes our dreams get reduced to "The List". You know the list: finish college - check; get that great job - check; marry for love - check; drive the fancy car - check; and buy that big home to show that you've 'made it' - check! Where was God each time you made that list and checked it twice? Did you think about Him each time you added to the list, or had things added to the list for you? Did you say "thank you" or did you begin to question why this was happening and could you manage it all?

We are very fortunate that even when our list gets longer, God knows everything we need. He doesn't ask us to check any boxes, but simply to seek Him and do His will. Today, seek the Spirit of the Lord and allow Him to order your steps, feed your needs and refresh your dreams.

Helaina Jolly-Triche

Let Us Pray: Thank you God for knowing all that we need and giving us exactly what we need, when we need it. Thank you Lord. AMEN.

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Day 8 – January 9, 2012“Can You Carry the Weight?”

How often have you heard the proverb, “God will not give you more than you can bear?” If you are like me, I have heard this phrase all my life. And I have often used it myself. But that is not what the Word says. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, “No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.”

The Word does not say that you won’t be challenged beyond your ability. It doesn’t say that you won’t be stressed close to your breaking point. It doesn’t say that you won’t be tested or tempted beyond your threshold of comfort. It doesn’t say that you won’t be driven close to the edge of destruction. In reality, there are times that God gives us more than we can bear. They are times when the pink slip comes. They are the times that the divorce papers arrive. They are times when the doctor delivers a negative report. They are the times when a loved one disappoints us. They are the times when our children go astray. And they are the times when we are assailed by doubts; pummeled by demands and drenched by the waves of fear. In life, you will go through situations that are more than you can bear alone. But Hallelujah --- you don’t have to bear them by yourself. For it is only when you can’t carry the weight that the strength of Jesus Christ kicks in.

What weight are you carrying? How much longer can you bear it? The good news I bring to you is ---YOU don’t have to carry the weight all by yourself. The strength of Jesus Christ is available to YOU.


Let Us Pray: Give me the strength and the courage to not give into my fears and insecurities. When I feel like giving up, remind me that you are with me. When I am weak, remind me that your strength is made perfect in my weakness. And when I feel alone and unworthy of love, remind me that your grace and mercy are always available to me. Lord I surrender to you. I trust you. I love you. In Jesus name, I pray. AMEN.

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Day 9 – January 10, 2012“The Choice is Yours”

“But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15, NIV

In 1991, the hip-hop duo Black Sheep released their prophetic classic, “The Choice is Yours,” with its captivating “this or that” comparisons. Today the song is most likely to spark images of hip-hop hamsters rapping and dancing while advertising a vehicle with soul. No matter how you may have encountered this song, today it continues to serve as a prophetic reminder of the choices we each have to make.

In the final chapter of Joshua, he walks the people through a brief history lesson reminding them of how the Lord kept their ancestors and brought them through trying times. Joshua then puts the choice before them to either try to blend in with those living around them by worshiping the things that they worshipped, or to stay committed to the Lord who had brought them to that point and serve the Lord faithfully. He challenged them to not get confused in their current state where everything was good and they were living comfortably in the lap of luxury. While it had been the Lord who had provided for them and brought them to the current state, the Lord their God was a jealous God, and would not be worshipped along with other gods. As Joshua shared with the people, it was time to renew their faith and deepen their relationship with the Lord. This too is a wonderful time for us to reflect on where the Lord has brought us from, renew our faith, and deepen our relationship with the Lord.

If we were to remix Joshua’s last sermon, you just might hear…You can get with this or you can get with that, you can get with this or you can get with that, you can get with this or you can get with that, but as for me and my house, we’ll get with the Lord, ‘cause this is where it’s at… The Choice is Yours.

Rev AnneMarie Mingo

Let Us Pray: God, Thank you for trusting me to make choices in my life. Thank you for keeping me, even during the times when the choices that I have made have been questionable. I am grateful that you love me and that you continue to bless me. I want to grow closer to you and know you for myself, so today God, I recommit to trusting you completely and serving you faithfully. Even when I see others doing otherwise, I willingly make the choice to get with and stay with you. AMEN.

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Day 10 – January 7, 2012“Stay On Board”

Day 10 of the fast is complete. How are you doing? I hope you have stayed with your commitment up to this point. If you have not, don’t fret over the mistakes you have made, and don’t lose sleep because you slipped and ate something that you should not have. Forget about all that. I didn’t initiate this fast to see how well you could follow the rules. I called this fast so you could strengthen and deepen your relationship with God. So for those who are off track, shake off the negativity. Today is your “get back on track day”.

Take a moment. Pray that God will renew your commitment and give you the strength to re-commit to Him. But beyond praying, take a second moment and evaluate yourself. Ask yourself, why am I fasting? If you hesitate or can’t readily define that answer, SLOW DOWN. This time of prayer and fasting is also a time of personal reflection. Take this time to be specific in your reason for fasting. And take this time to make a verbal commitment to the Lord. “Lord, I am fasting for restoration of my marriage.” “Lord, I am fasting for a closer relationship with you.” Whatever your specific goal is, make it plain. The writer of Proverbs said it well, “Do not let loyalty and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” (Proverbs 3:3) Once you have done that, write it down and establish daily goals for the fast. I promise you. It will make your commitment to the fast easier and a lot more meaningful.

If you have been going strong these past 10 days, great! Keep it up. I assure you...the pain of sacrifice is better than the pain of regret. My prayer for you is the same prayer I have for myself. I pray that God will keep stoking our passions to complete the journey that we have started. Stay on board. The best is yet to come!


Let Us Pray: Lord I pray for the strength to see my fasting through these 21 days. I am committed and prayerful that if I stay on board and keep the faith, my days won’t be filled with the thought of what to eat, but my mind will be filled with your glory and your grace. AMEN.

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Day 11 – January 12, 2012“Forgiveness”

Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it." Romans 12:17-19 (The Message)

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." Bitterness is a spiritual cancer, a rapidly growing malignancy that can consume your life. When bitterness sets in, it becomes a spiritual sickness. It will consume your soul and is dangerous to your emotional health. It can destroy you if you let it. If you get caught up in the intensity of getting back or getting even with someone, this emotional feeling can be very destructive to your existence. To overcome this feeling, first you must be prayerful and ask God to cleanse your heart. We don't need to go into a new year with destructive feelings within our hearts. As we pray and fast during the Daniel Fast, let us get rid of all of our destructive feelings. Then, we must learn not to have any feelings, thoughts, or desires of hatred for another. We must pray for the resistance of negative thoughts before our emotions become hijacked. We must learn how to forgive others and we must learn how to forgive ourselves. As we learned in the Lord’s Prayer "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12). So as we begin this New Year, let us learn to forgive others and ourselves as we seek grace and glory of the Lord and forgiveness of all things that stand between the Lord and ourselves.. dfgkljdfgkdfgjdfkgljdfskgjdlfjglkdfgjldfkjgldfjglk

Rev. Bernese Shaw

Let Us Pray: Lord, we seek your face today in forgiveness. I know the Word says that we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory, so Lord forgive us and help us Lord to forgive others. In the Mighty Name of your son, Our Lord and Savior that died for our salvation. AMEN.

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Day 12 – January 13, 2012“Don’t Let Anything Hold You Down

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1, NIV

Hot air balloons have a very interesting feature about them that becomes a perfect reminder for us during this season. These large balloons were the first to successfully enable groups of people to travel distances through the air, allowing them to reach destinations that otherwise would have been more difficult on the ground. While modern hot air balloons are equipped to make more technical adjustments, to rise above trees and move at greater speeds; stories are told of hot air balloonists who needed to rise higher and move faster, and to do so they threw off every weight that was holding them down and slowing them up.

In the race that God has set before us, we have others who have gone before who are cheering us on, and encouraging us to not get held down by things of our past, but to shake off the past disappointments, shake off the past mistakes, and set our eyes on what is ahead. As we near the end of our season of fasting, the time has come to throw off the weights of worry, doubt, fear, and more, and rise up to a higher level with God than would have been possible before.

God has already marked out the race for us, we simply have to have the faith and the discipline to let go of what God says to let go of – whether friends, family, or habits – it is time to lighten the load and not let anything hold you down from rising and reaching our goals. Throw off every weight of the past that continues to hold you back and slow you down, trust the Holy Spirit to be the powerful wind that guides and directs you safely along your journey, and Don’t Let Anything Hold You Down!

Rev. AnneMarie Mingo

Let Us Pray: God, I am ready to move to a higher level with you. Help me to throw off the things of my past that have been weighing me down and holding me back. Allow your Holy Spirit to provide the lift for my life and the direction for my path, so that I can be victorious in the race that you have set before me. AMEN.

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Day 13 – January 14, 2012“You Too Can Win”

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

We are living in challenging times. Job creation is anemic. Money is tight. Our cities and states are bankrupt. Racial and political tensions are high. Natural disasters are on the rise. Our families are over-programmed and over-stressed. Our schools are morphing more into detention centers than environments for learning. And the citizens of the world are at war with each other and with themselves.

But despite it all, as believers we must remember we still have faith. My father-in-law taught me that faith means “Forsaking All I Trust Him”. Beloved, that is what you have to do in times like these. You have to trust God. Regardless of your present circumstances, God has a plan for you to prosper. And I don’t mean trust God out of emotion or because it sounds good. James, the half-brother of Jesus, said “consider it pure joy.” In other words, you know how God sustained you when others had written you off. You know that despite the attacks of your enemies, “You are still standing. You are still strong”. You know how God healed your body from sickness. You know how much Jesus loves you for the bible tells you so. You don’t need anyone to tell you how good God is, you know it for yourself. That is why you are fasting and praising God. You know that your life is a living record to the goodness of God.

And despite the challenges that you are facing, YOU too can WIN. For James speaks of two kinds of trials in this passage: (1) tests from the outside, like jealous, negative attitudes or meanness; and (2) tests from the inside, like fear, doubt, temptations and addictions. James admits, and you know it for yourself, that life is full of trials. But the good news I bring, is that we serve a savior that specializes in overcoming trials...and his name is Jesus Christ. For 40 days, the Adversary tested him; but through faith, prayer and perseverancehe overcame his trials and defeated the Adversary. If you and I don’t grow weary, if we are faithful, if we remember the goodness of God, if we develop perseverance in challenging times, we too can overcome our trials and WE TOO CAN WIN!


Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, let me turn to You for courage and for strength. You are with me always no matter what I am going through. Father, help me as I face the challenges of this day to do so with trust and assurance in You. I know Lord that you are with me. If I trust you I can win this battle. In Jesus name, I pray. AMEN.

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Day 14 – January 15, 2012“Let’s Have a Garage Sale!”

Terah took his son Abram...and they went out together from Ur of the Chaldeans to go into the land of Canaan; but when they came to Haran they settled there. The days of Terah were two hundred five years; and Terah died in Haran. Genesis 11:31-32

If we know that God is faithful, why do we settle? I believe we settle because we are afraid to grow. I don’t mean grow physically --- I mean to grow spiritually. The bible doesn’t say why Terah settled there. Maybe he became complacent and stagnant in his walk with God. Maybe he stopped dreaming and pushing towards his goal. It is so much easier to choose to stay in Haran. Oh, there are other words for Haran --- average, mediocre, normal, compliant, predictable, safe and the lists go on and on. However, in order to grow (spiritually, financially, professionally, numerically or physically) you have to deal with the tension caused by the pain of failure versus the pain of regret.

To grow spiritually, you have to surrender everything to God. This type of surrender is not waving a white flag and hanging one’s head in defeat. Surrender, in this context, means unpacking your emotional baggage. Unfortunately, most of us create “neat little storage spaces” to hide our baggage. Time passes and we try to forget that the baggage is in the storage space. But every time we move into a new relationship, a new job or new vision, we continue to pay the storage fees. We take with us the same old anger, the same old hurts, the same old wounded feelings, the same fears, the same doubts and the same old regrets that have weighed us down for so many years. And instead of growing into the mature Christians that God wants us to be, we settle for what life gives us instead of what life can be.

I don’t know about you. I’m tired of settling. I’m tired of living below the visionthat God has for my life. I’m ready to risk failure if it allows me to walk in my destiny. In this period of fasting, let’s have a garage sale!Rev. Charles Maxell, Jr.

Let Us Pray: Heavenly Father, let me have a garage sale of my unbelief and sinful ways. Lord, help me to surrender all to you and grow spiritually every day. Lord, help me not to settle but walk in the vision you have for my life. AMEN.

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Day 15 – January 16, 2012“How Are You Measuring Up?”

As I reflect on the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I am drawn to his definition of success: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy". In a culture that measures success by how much you make, where you live, what you own, where you worship, what you wear or who you associate with, Dr. King’s measurement of success mentions none of these. Instead, he asks the question, “Do you look at struggles and adversity and become impotent to the challenge? Or do you rise to their tests with faith and determination to meet them head on.”

If Dr. King were alive, I believe he would ask us a series of questions: “Where do you stand on the eradication of poverty and support for affordable healthcare for everyone? Where do you stand on the proliferation of the sex trade and pornography that dominates the internet? Where do you stand on war at home and abroad? Where do you stand on racism, religious tolerance and gender equity? Where do you stand on the sanctity of marriage and the role of prayer in schools? Where do you stand on protecting the environment over bigger profits and bigger companies? Where do you stand on quality education and the right for everyone to share in the American Dream? Where do you stand on justice, peace and love for people who look like you and for people who don’t?”

Life is full of challenges and controversies that require our response. Life will test each one of us; and each one of us will have the opportunity to be measured by Dr. King’s “measuring stick”.

My question to you and to me, how are you measuring up? Then he (Jesus) said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. (Matthew 9:37, NIV)


Let Us Pray: Lord, the question today is how am I measuring up? Lord, there is no measurement when it comes to your grace and mercy. Lord, let my life be immeasurable when I think of your grace and mercy. Lord, help me treasure those moments (that are not measureable) that I spend with my family and help me to demonstrate through my words and my actions how much love I feel in my heart for them. This is my earnest prayer. In Jesus name, I pray. AMEN.

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Day 16 – January 17, 2012“What’s On Your List Today?”

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

Have you ever lived by a list? Call it what you'd like...To Do List or Dream List...but you know the one I'm referring to: finish college - check; get the great job - check; fall in love and get married - check; don't spank the children - half check; and the best one...you can balance it ALL -check! Most of us have written and lived by one list or another list our entire lives. We are the ones that check the boxes and mark each task off as we 'accomplished' the goal. Don't misunderstand, goals are good to have. Our challenges start when the goals and the list get so materially focused and become the priority over taking care of ourselves and our families, going to church, and permitting ourselves to help those in need.

Was God always on your list? Were you like some people, thanking God when the good things happened but questioning God when things got tough? Where are you God? Here's what I need today. We are very fortunate that even when our list gets long and we try to prioritize one thing over the next, we are the priority on God's list all the time. You may not know yet what you need to get through today, but God does. Allow God to 'pen' your list.


Let Us Pray: Lord, help me make my list all about you and what you want me to do. Sometimes in this life I get distracted from you and make my to-do list about me. Thank you Lord for being there in times such as these. No matter what I put on my list, Lord please make my vision clear enough to put you first. Wash my soul, cleanse my heart, and help me to walk uprightly in your sight. AMEN.

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Day 17 – January 18, 2012“Make A Difference. Leave a Mark!”

But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Matthew 9:36

Some of us are “waiters”. We wait for this, wait for that, but never actually get moving. Are you a waiter? What exactly are you waiting for…that single moment or hour in your day when you can make a difference in someone’s life that subtle sign you’ll notice one day as you’re driving home? Waiting may leave you just that…waiting. I believe asking yourself a few simple questions may actually move you from the ‘wait here to do something’ lane to the HOV lane!

Are you compassionate? Do you ask yourself if you are making a difference in the lives of people around you…people you know and those you will never meet? Do you care for and about people? Do you share your relationship with Christ like you should? What if God had been a waiter? If Jesus hadn’t shown compassion, healed the sick or been moved to care for all people...where would you be TODAY?

You have a purpose on this earth, placed in you by God. He didn’t intend for you to keep it hidden but instead to share it and be a blessing to everyone. As you go through today, and every day, live your life with purpose; do it with the desire to touch someone in a way that only you can. Make a difference…leave your mark!


Let Us Pray: Lord as I go along each day, please help me to make a difference in this world by witnessing to someone each and every day of your wonders and glory. And when you send the increase, I will be sure to give you all the praise and the glory. AMEN.

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Day 18 – January 19, 2012“Ask God to Lead the Way”

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

In this passage, Paul is encouraging the new church that he started on his second missionary journey in Thessalonica. This passage is a practical guide for Christian living in every generation. We need to consult God always, to receive His wisdom, His strength and His love.

As we journey together on the Daniel Fast, we need to open our heart, mind and body to God to cleanse and start us afresh for this New Year and forever more. Instead of just turning things over in your mind turn them over to God in prayer. Instead of worrying about your next decision, ask God to lead the way. God is listening and He wants to hear from you.

Rev. Bernese Shaw

Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, as we continue to cleanse ourselves on the Daniel Fast, cleanse our hearts and our minds and turn over all our anxieties and worries to you. In Jesus name, I pray. AMEN.

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Day 19 – January 20, 2012“Almost Home!”

For 19 days we have faithfully fasted. We have purified our bodies and our spirits of toxins and distractions. We have prayed. We have read scripture. And in some ways, we feel closer to God than we ever have felt. Now what? Are we going to revert back to our old ways, our old habits and our old traps? Are we going to keep reading our bibles daily? Are we going to continue to seek God’s face with our lives? I hope so. We have made such wonderful progress these past 19 days. We have taken the first step of faith --- we have made the pledge to trust God with our finances; to trust God with our relationships; to trust God with our careers; to trust God with our families. But that was only the first step.

The first step of faith is responding to what God has already spoken. John 10:10 (NIV) records Jesus’ saying, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” However, the second step of faith requires us to believe in the impossible. In the first step of faith, God is working in us and through us. In the second step of faith, God’s hands and the Holy Spirit are all around us. Like Abram, the first step of faith requires that we trust God’s promise (Genesis 12:1). The second step of faith requires that we trust God while at the same time letting go of the demand to know the details. That is why the writer of Hebrew writes in 11:1 (NRSV), “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Remember, once something is definite, once you can see it, feel it, touch it, it no longer requires faith. In contrast, the second step of faith challenges us to believe in miracles; to have faith in the supernatural. But the supernatural is what God specializes in. While everything is possible with God, there are some things that are impossible without God. This faith truth is the second step of faith.

My point is simple; our journey of faith doesn’t end with the fast. The fast was only the first step. There is so much more that God wants to do for you. I encourage you to keep stepping further into the realm of faith. Keep praying. Keep studying God’s word. Set aside times of periodic fasting. For faith in God is not static. There are other dimensions. There is another step for you to take.


Let Us Pray: Thank You Lord for bringing us 19 days through the Daniel Fast. Even when the fast is over, Lord help me to have faith and the commitment on this Christian journey that we had to be committed to the fast for 19 days. AMEN.

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Day 20 – January 21, 2012“The Lord is Near”

Some of us have been given gifts and graces that could bless someone. Unfortunately, we are so fearful or worried about what tomorrow may bring that God can’t use us. And then there are the rest of us who are so busy having a pity-party about what we don’t have and what we can’t do --- that we can’t see beyond our ourselves in order to walk in the full authority and anointing that Jesus Christ offers us. That is why Paul says in Philippians 4:5, Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.

The time has come for you to get out of your head. The time has comefor you to live a life worthy of Christ’s sacrifice. The time has come for you to stop making excuses for what you can’t do. Yeah, you got yourself in debt but you don’t have to stay there. Make the commitment today to tithe, save, invest and learn how to become a better steward of your resources. Yeah, your body might be failing you but your mind and mouth still work. Therefore, call someone today and tell them that Jesus loves them. Yeah, you might not be able to do like you used to but as long as you are breathing and in your right mind, you can still be productive and do God’s work. Stop telling yourself that “You’re too old. You’re too young.” Stop telling yourself, “I will tithe and be a blessing to the Kingdom once I get my finances straight.” Don’t waste time on negative thoughts. God has a plan for your life. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.


Let Us Pray: Heavenly Father you know when we are fearful and not trusting even though you are always near, Father forgive us for being limited in our faith walk. Be with us during this Daniel Fast so that our faith grows stronger in you. Lord, the time has come when we have to stand firm in our faith and be able to let others see you in us. AMEN.

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Day 21 – January 22, 2012“Write the Vision. Make it Plain!”

Then the Lord answered me and said: Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so that a runner may read it. Habakkuk 2:2

Take today to write out some reflections of what God has spoken to you during this fast. What has God shown you about distractions? What have you learned about your relationship with God? How has God blessed you? How has God stretched you? Going forward...how should this period of fasting, prayer and personal reflection change your life?

Don’t skip this exercise. Writing down your visions and establishing clear goals is an important step in staying focused and establishing accountability once the fast is over.

1. WRITE the vision and make it plain. Be specific and make a verbal commitment to the Lord.

2. VISUALIZE and PRAY what your life might be like if you do not pursue this vision. Then PRAY AGAIN for the strength and the discipline to make the vision come to fruition.

3. Visualize yourself AFTER this vision HAS become your reality. How does it feel? What tangible benefits result from this vision?

4. DECIDE ON THE FIRST STEP you can take to continue your start on your journey.

After that, there's only more thing to do-MAKE IT HAPPEN!


Let Us Pray: Heavenly Father, I pray for your grace and your mercy to penetrate my very existence. Lord, I know life is not a dress rehearsal and I need you Lord in my life to make it count. Thank you for being my God. I give you all the glory and the praise. AMEN

Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough Author: Elmer L. Towns Copyright © 1996 ISBN: 0-8307-1839-7

Prayer and Fasting: Purpose, Preparation, Action, Result Author: Dr. Kingsley A. Fletcher Copyright © 1992 ISBN: 1-56043-070-2

The Power of Prayer and Fasting Author: Ronnie W. Floyd Copyright © 1997 ISBN: 0-8054-0164-4

Fasting: The Private Discipline That Brings Public Reward Author: Jentezen Franklin Copyright © 2004 ISBN: 0-9718254-9-1

Toxic Relief Author: Don Colbert, M.D. Copyright © 2001 ISBN: 0-88419-760-3

The Daniel Fast - For the Body, Soul and Spirit Author: Susan Gregory www.daniel-fast.com

Breakthrough Fast 2012: Let’s Make It Count!Fasting Resources for Further Study

*These materials were used to compile this booklet.

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Documents

LET’S MAKE IT COUNTstorage.cloversites.com/thebreakthroughproject... · Another important guideline is drawn from the Jewish principles of fasting, where no leaven is used during