Question and Answers about fasting:

1. How do I begin?  What can I do to prepare for my fast?

Before January 10th, please write down what area in your life you want to see God break through in and then make a

commitment to the Lord that you are going to dedicate these 21 days to Him. Begin to anticipate what God is going to

do in you and in our church. Develop an attitude of faith.

2. Can I have salt, pepper, seasoning, whole grains, soy products, eggs, butter, protein drinks, vitamins, etc,?

Fasting is a private discipline. It is not meant to be unattainable. Decide what is feasible for you and make every effort

to do that. Do what you can and then put the rest in God's hands.

3. Can children fast?

The best way to demonstrate to your children the power of fasting is to lead by example and let them see how God

moves in your life. If children want to participate in fasting, it would be best to start off very small, like giving up desserts

or sodas. They also may be encouraged to give up things other than food such as television, the Internet or video games.

You should consult your doctor before involving your children in a fast.

4. What if I have a medical condition?

Consult your doctor before starting any fast and decide together what is possible. If your health condition prohibits you

from fasting food, try fasting something else that would be a sacrifice, and then replace that time by concentrating on

prayer and the study of God's Word.

5. What if I start and I cannot finish? Have I fasted for nothing?

Seeking God through prayer and fasting is never a waste of time. When you make an effort and sacrifice for God, God takes

notice. Remember God is looking at your heart. This is not meant to be legalistic.

6. Does it have to be food? What about TV, Internet, sports, etc.?

Fasting in the traditional sense, as outlined by Scripture, is fasting from food. However, if you can't for some reason do that,

feel free to give up something else that might have control in your life and replace that time with prayer and the study of

God's Word.

7. Do I continue to exercise while I fast?

Moderate exercise is good, but it's always best to consult a doctor about fasting and exercise.

8. What if I have a manual labor job?

If your job requires you to expend a lot of physical energy, you may want to consider a partial fast that allows

you to receive enough nutrients to perform your job.

If you have any questions

whether fasting is appropriate for you,

please consult your doctor for guidelines.