Prayer + Fasting to kick off the 2025 year
Do you want to know God in a deeper way? Are you seeking His direction in your life? For healing? For breakthrough? Whatever you need, you can bring it to the Lord in prayer and fasting. Let's kick off the year together with our annual fast!
Here are some tips to prepare for the fast!
Set Intentions: Fill out a commitment form on paper or online. You can do so below. Clarify your purpose for fasting. Whether it's seeking guidance, spiritual growth, or a deeper connection with God, having a clear intention helps focus your efforts.
Gradual Adjustment: If new to fasting, ease into it by gradually reducing meal sizes or practicing intermittent fasting in the days leading up to the fast.
Hydration: Ensure you're well-hydrated before starting. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the fast to minimize dehydration risks and during your fast.
Healthy Eating: Consume nourishing, whole foods leading up to the fast. Avoid heavy, processed foods that might make the transition more challenging.
Prayer: Mentally prepare by spending time in prayer to center yourself spiritually before starting the fast.
Plan and Schedule: Organize your schedule to accommodate the fast. Consider how fasting might impact your daily routine and plan accordingly. Go to bed earlier so you can make prayer every morning on Zoom!
Support System: Utilize your Pastors and leaders to keep you on track and accountable to your goals.
Mindset: Approach the fast with a positive mindset and a commitment to your spiritual goals. Stay focused on the purpose behind your fast.
Remember, every individual's experience with fasting is unique. Listen to your body, and stay attuned to your spiritual intentions throughout the fasting period.
PRAYER SCHEDULE
Monday-Friday 5:00am EST | Zoom Only
Friday Night 7:00pm EST | In-Person (At Delmar, Dover and Dulles.)
Saturday 7:00am EST | Zoom Only
Sunday | No prayer due to services.
Fast Commitment form
OTHER FAQ’S
WHAT IS FASTING?
Biblical fasting is refraining from food for a spiritual purpose. As a church, we are fasting in order to deepen our relationship with God and to walk in step with His plan and purpose. The best way to do this is to redirect our food source or something else of importance to us, such as the media. This is accomplished by substituting our regular food intake with Bible reading, prayer, and journaling.The overall goal is to experience a genuine hunger for spending time with God. Fasting takes a lot of discipline and strength—strength you can only receive from God. When you give God your first through fasting, prayer, and giving at the beginning of the year, you set the course for the entire year.
How do i decide on what to fast?
When considering which type of fasting aligns best with your spiritual journey, it's crucial to approach the decision with wisdom and discernment. Reflect on your health, personal circumstances, and spiritual goals. If you're new to fasting, start gradually; perhaps a selective fast or skipping a meal. Listen to your body and consider any health concerns before choosing a total fast. For a more focused approach, a Daniel fast, abstaining from certain foods, might suit your intentions. Seek counsel or guidance from spiritual leaders or mentors for direction. Remember, the aim is to draw closer to God, so choose a fasting method that fosters spiritual growth while being mindful of your physical well-being. Some fast ideas: Daniel fast, liquid fast, partial fast, etc.
WHAT can I expect?
When you fast, your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort, such as headaches and irritability, during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Stay strong! Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus' example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship music. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God. Expect God to move in your heart as you draw closer to Him.
Foods + Drinks You Can Fast
The following items are things that many people choose to fast from: meat and animal products, dairy, sweeteners, bread, refined and processed foods, deep-fried foods, and solid fats. Beverages: including but not limited to carbonated drinks, energy drinks, alcohol, and any other sugary beverages.
What is the Daniel Fast?
As a church body, we commonly follow the Daniel Fast. The Daniel Fast is based on verses from the Bible found in Daniel 10:2-3. "At that time, I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks." "I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over." The Daniel Fast is a partial fast, which means that we will eliminate some common things from our daily diet. We will focus on eating fruits and vegetables that are pure and simple, as well as drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
OTHER IDEAS IF YOU CAN’t fast for health reasons
The Daniel Fast, abstain from TV, Social media, music, video games, etc. (This is a good choice if you are medically unable to skip food.) Sun up to sun down, a liquid fast, skipping a meal or two, or intermittent fasting.