day 21 devotional- missionaries & laborers

here's the very last day in the prayer guide-

"

Scripture:
Matthew 9:37-38 (NLT) He said to the disciples, 'The harvest is great, but the workers are few. so pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields."

Personal reflection:
Jesus taught us to plead with God that he might call, equip and send laborers into the harvest. There is a lost and dying world waiting to hear the gospel. Yet, it can only happen if there are people who are willing to go out and proclaim the gospel to the nations. It is our responsibility to ask God to raise up new laborers and to pray for those who are already laying down their lives to evangelizr the world. Ask God to raise up those who have a deep, intimate relationship with him, mold them into powerful witnesses of Christ and remove anything that would hinder them in their service of him. Ask him to also burden believers to support those who are called to missions; move upon their hearts to give generously, joyously, and sacrificially to the cause of the gospel across the world.

Going forward, I'm committed to _______.

Additional scripture support:
Acts 13:1-3, 26-28, 2 tim 3:16-17, Matt 10:29, Prov. 3:5-7. Acts 21:37-22:21. Prov 21:1

Praying through scripture:
Jesus, your last instructions to us, your church, was to go out and train everyone we meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefol name: Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all you have commanded us. We know that you will be with us as we do this, day after day after day, right up until the end of the age. We pray that as we go this your Word will prosper an the number of disciples will increase dramatically. Not least, a great many leaders who submit themselves to the faith. raise up teachers who committ themselves to studying the revelations of your Word, living it an teaching it to others so that they can live its truths and ways. Amen

"

This is a great last guide, as it reminds us that being Christians isn't just about being in relationship with God, it's about speading the gospel.

One of the things that always stuck with me growing up in the episcopal church was that at the end of every church service the pastor would say

"and let us go forth, to do that work that you have given us to do, to love and uphold you, as faithful messengers, of the Lord our God."

And that is exactly what this guide is saying. Go forth. Be a faithful messenger for God.

Going forward, I'm committed to being a messenger for God, by grace through faith, to go forth and do the work He has given me to do.

Thank you all for following me.

This is the very last post.

So pray for me, and go forth with me, friends. :-)

day 21- only one thing

day 21!!!! Today is my last day of fasting- which means no food at all today.

Tomorrow I will make mozzarella sticks. :-)

So I've been thinking and dreading the last post for so long...hoping to find some kind of overwhelming ephiphanies to leave you all on...but I realized at church today that it's not needed.

Today at church half way through our sound exploded and we had to turn it off and run the rest of the set acoustic. Even Lee, our pastor, had to shout instead of use a microphone. It reminded me of a time my freshman year in college right after I began my relationship with Christ how we used to all caravan to this church in Suffolk which I've completely forgotten the name of.

Anyhow, one Sunday we went to church and a huge thunderstorm the night before had completely wiped out the power in most of Suffolk. So we had church without lights and with an acoustic guitar. And it was one of the best services I've ever been to...as was today.

Sometimes we get so preoccupied with all the preparations that we lose focus on what's really important. I'm not saying fog machines and cool lights and loud music at church isn't good- but when it comes down to it- we need to remind ourselves that there's one thing important about church- God.

Interestingly, this is the verse we used today at church, which I knew right away was how I would end my blog. Everyone should be familiar with it- but it's often only applied in context, and not applied to the church- or to fasting- or to our lives.

Luke 10:38-42
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

Only one thing is needed- God. And like Jesus says, it won't be taken away from her.

And so, just like at church today we did just fine with no sound and churches all over the world meet with no power, I survived just fine for 21 days on fruits and vegetables.

And I think sometimes we have so much clutter that getting rid of things- maybe electricity at church, maybe foods from our diet, maybe plenty of other things that fill us up so that God can't fill us up- brings us closer to God.

And so I was originally planning on writing a list of things this fast has helped me with that I'll continue on doing now that it's over.

But I was reminded of a time my senior year when I was discipling a new Christian, and she brought me this huge list of things she wanted to strive to be. And I looked at her, flipped the sheet over, and said, "write them all down in one sentence."

And so eventually, we worked together and came up with this:

"I want more of God, and less of me."

Because clutter rids our focus, and because when it comes down to it, like Jesus said to Martha, "Only one thing is needed."

That's it.

And so I thank you all for following my blog and for praying for me so much, you don't know how much of a blessing you all have been for me during this time.

And so, day 21, and as my fast comes to an end, I only have one thing that I wish to continue to focus on.

And so I turn my eyes toward God.

day 21- water, scripture and God.

day 20 devotional- Israel

Here's the guidebook lesson for today:

"

Israel

Scripture: Psalm 122:6 (NLT) Pray for peace in Jerusalem, May all who love this city prosper."

Personal reflection:
As we see many of today's news events pointing toward the middle east, and specifically, the holy land of israel, we must fix our eyes even more upon Jesus. The Bible is full of prophecy surrounding Jerusalem and the entire Holy Land. The church must come together in faith and love against the forces of destruction. It is our responsibility as God's children to surrender ourselves before the Lord in prayer, asking him for peace and revival in Israel, and praying for Israel's safety and security against the forces which threaten to destroy her. Lift up our leaders and ask God to guide them in their decisions concerning Israel, and that he will have his will in that land.

Going forward I'm committed to ______.

Additional Scripture Support:
Psalm 25:22, Joel 3:16, Jer. 33:9, Eph. 1:18, Prob. 16:7, Eze. 34:25-27

Praying through scripture:
Isaiah 45:3-4. 48:28-31, 45:13, 17, Jer. 33:8 & 9, Zec. 12-14, Isaiah 61:6-7
Jesus, you are the God of Israel, and they are your people, you named them though they did not know you. Lord, cleanse them from their iniquities and pardon all their sins. raise them up in righteousness, direct all their ways and save them with an everlasting salvation. I pray for peace in the walls of Jerusalem and prosperity in her palaces. God, your Word tells us that you will deliver your people. It's with this knowledge that we understand the current intensity of Isreal's conflict. But you also tell us that you have posted watchmen on the walls who won't be silent day or night. We are those watchmen, God, let us call on you without rest until you establish your kingdom in Jerusalem and make her the peace of the earth. Amen

"

This devotional is right in pointing out war- but I really want to point out peace.

Military units from all over the world right now are joined together helping out Haiti. and it's beautiful. and it's Godly. Some of my military friend's deployments got canceled in order to send them all to Haiti to help with medical needs. How cool is that?

So, while we pray to God...thanks him for peace too. Because it's out there. Promise.

day 20- tomorrow

day 20- one more day, and I have no intense ephiphanies, just a wandering mind trying to figure out what ending my fast will look like.

tomorrow is the last day of my fast. I'd really like it if everyone could pray for it. Tomorrow everyone in my church participating is fasting completely from food, and we are praying outside of normal church. Both church and prayer should be really powerful and I'm completely looking forward to it, even though not eating all day might be tough.

So tomorrow will be my no food day and my very last day, so a lot of what's going through my head right now is how to prepare for the end of my fast.

Just like beginnings are hard, ending things are hard too. Even though I won't be blogging after tomorrow, I really want to continue to spend time with God each day. I have a blank journal, and I cleared my home desk off today to get in the habit of writing more privately. So I will continue to learn, and to write.

But my fast wasn't just about me and my relationship with God, it was about being part of a body- my church, and helping both to direct and be directed. So pray for me, and for my church as a whole, as we continue to guide and be guided by the community of believers we are joined with every Sunday.

day 20- pineapple, grapefruit juice, stir fry veggies

day 19 devotional- the airwaves

day 19 in the prayer guide speaks about the airwaves...

"

Scripture: Ephesians 2:2 (NKJ) In which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobediance.

Personal reflection: It's easy to forget, even as believers, that although we serve a mightly God who has defeated satan through the Cross, the devil is still roaming about seeking whom he may destroy until Jesus returns to claim the final vistory. Satan is the prince of the power of the air and is still very much in control on planet earth, and he uses a very effective and powerful weapon- the world's chosen medium of entertainment- to deceive and control. Ask God to protect his people form the lies of the enemy as he seeks to tempt us out of relationship with God by appealing to our fleshly desires and attitudes.

Going forward I'm committed to _________.

Additional scripture support: Rev. 12:9, John 8:44, 2 Cor. 4:4, Mark 13:33, 37, 1 Pet. 4:7, 1 Thes. 5:6, Luke 21:36, 1 Cor. 16:14

Praying through scripture:
1 pet. 5:8-11 (MSG)
Jesus, you instruct us in your Word to keep a cool head and stay alert because the devil is poised to pounce and would like nothing better than to catch us napping. Help your people to keep their guard up. We in America arn't the only ones plunged into these hard times. It's the same with Christians all over the world. So, help us keep a firm grip on faith. The suffering won't last forever. It won't be long before you, our generous God who has great plans for us- eternal and glorious plans- will have us on our feet for good because we know you get the last word. Thank you for laying down your life on the cross so that we might have victory over the enemy and his schemes and live eternally with you in heaven. Amen.

"

I like how the verse says "you once walked." We all once followed our own hearts and needs. And then we find God, and we give that life up for one much better. And that's what this is about- continuing to walk for God and no one else.

Going forward, I'm committed to maintaining my walk with God, and not stumbling backwards.

day 19- stumble at the finish line

Day 19- and I am almost done with my fast...only 2 more days after this.

But today, even though it was barely anything, I broke my fast.

Mandi and I went out to lunch today and I got tomato basil soup. When it was brought to me, it had cheese on the top. I thought about asking them for one without cheese, but I knew that asking them to throw out a bowl of soup so that I could have a plain one completely contradicted fasting. I couldn't openly waste food.

And so I sat there, in my catch-22, and was reminded that decisions arn't always black and white. So I took my invisible humble pills along with my lunch of tomato soup and melted cheese that was impossible to completely take out before eating it.

And as much as I would have loved to get to Monday morning and said I went 21 days on a Daniel Fast without ever breaking it, I realize that this isn't about me, and that this glorifies God more.

In Phillippians 3, Paul writes a letter to the Phillippians, and it looks like this:

"If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless.

7But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead."

Paul says hey, if anyone can boast they are good, it's me. I've done every ceremony, I'm from the right tribe, and I havn't broken any rules.

But then he reminds the people that this is not what makes a man whole. He says he counts it all as a loss compared to how great God is. He says that nothing he has done or not done is as important as having a relationship in which Christ cleans us.

Being perfect isn't the point. Drawing near to God is.

And so, here I am, imperfect in my fast yet the closest to God I've been in my fast thus far. And in the next two days, I will continue fasting and learning and inching even closer.

day 19- orange, raisens, tomato soup with a dash of humble, and broccoli & cauliflower with yellow curry

day 18 devotional- idolatry

Prayer guide book for today talks about Idolatry.

"

Scripture: 2 Tim. 3:1-4 (NLT) In the last days there will be very difficult times. For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobediant to their parents and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God.

Personal reflection: Idolatry comes in many forms and isn't only a statue or image that we worship as a 'god.' Idolatry is anything that we place above God as a priority in ou lives and minds such as money, success, entertainment, pleasure or pride. There's certainly nothing wrong with having a favorite hobby or sports team. The sin occurs when those things come before God in our lives. Far too many people in our country and in the world have no room for God in their lives because their focus is on the things of this world have no room for God in their lives because their focus is on the things of this world instead of the things of God. Ask God to reveal the idols in your life and to tear down the idols that prevent his people from honoring him first.

Going forward I'm committed to ___________

Additional Scripture Support: Ex. 20:3, 32:4, deut. 8:19, Sam. 15:23, Dan. 5:23, Col. 3:5, 1 John 5:21

Praying through scripture: Matt 6:24, 26, 31-33 (MSG)
Jesus, we know that we can't worship two gods at once. Loving one god, we'll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. We cannot worship both God and money. There is far more to life than the food we put in our stomachs, more to our outer appearance than the clothes we hang on our body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, careless to the care of God and you count us far more valuable than the birds. Help us relax and not be so preoccupied with getting so that we can respond to your giving. People who don't know you and the way you work worry over these things, but we know you and trust you. Help us fill our lives with God-reality, God-initiative, God-provision and not worry about what we might be missing out on- then we'll find all of our everyday concerns will be met. Amen.

"

I so often put other things in front of God. I don't mean to, but sometimes I get so preoccupied with what I'm doing. And then they become my idols. Usually, this is work. I can't say no and so I keep on going and doing more and more and having less and less time to do everything else. Sometimes it's hair, or color, or tv, or knitting, or anything that I run to when I feel bad instead of God. None of these things are horrible, but when I put them as the thing I run to when I'm in need instead of God, they become idols.

I keep this one text message in my phone (let's see if I can embarass my boyfriend) from Sherwin that says "God on top buttercup," and not because he calls me an awkward pet name, but because I always need to reminder that God is top.

And when God is on top, so is love and relationship and moderation and putting forward 100%- and everything I always strive to accomplish anyways- but suddenly it's bearable and organized. and it makes sense.

Going forward, I'm committed to constantly reminding myself that God is top. Because when God is top, everything else is so much better.

day 18- real food and Real Food

My pastor's wife, Lisa, is one of the most thoughtful people I have ever met. She sent me a sweet email this morning saying that she felt the need to pray for me the night before and check out on how I was doing. But she also sent me a youtube video on missions work, as it might be good "blog food." As someone who has been fasting for 18 days now, I can't believe I have never called my blog my food. It was really an ephiphany for me. And so, usually I post a picture of something I've eaten during the day- and so today the picture isn't physical food, but food for my soul.

So one of the things my church is praying for while we are fasting is having the means and people to send plant a missions group in Liberia which we will constantly be able to pivot people in and out of. We want to build a school and a church there.

Anyhow, this video is all about reaching people via missions- and it has some really intense statistics we don't like to think about...or that most of us are oblivious to.

I'll list some of them below:

God.

1/3 of the world's population is considered unreached by the gospel. 2 billion people who have never been introduced to God.

In North Korea, Laos, and Iran, people face prision and death for believing.

Hunger.

HALF of the world's population lives on less than $2 a day.

30,000 people starve to death every day.

Children.

There are appoximately 13 million orphans worldwide.


In the past HOUR.

1,625 children were forced to live on the streets.

1,667 children died of malnutrition or disease.

115 children become prostitutes.

257 children were orphaned because of HIV/AIDS.


Luke 10:2 says that "The Harvest is plenty, but the workers are few."

There is plenty of God- he's neverending- it's just about getting him places.

So, if you can, please add my church and Liberia to your prayer lists. I want us to do good things.

day 18- apple, vegetable soup, stir fried vegetables

day 17 devotional- mercy

"

Scripture:
Isaiah 65:1-2 (NLT) The Lord says, 'I was ready to respond, but no one asked for help. I was ready to be found, but no one was looking for me. I said, 'Here I am, Here I am!' to a nation that did not call on my name. All day long I opened my arms to a rebellious people. But they follow their own evil paths and their own crooked schemes."

Personal Reflection: Our society and world has greatly degenerated with each passing year, removing the traditional acknowledgement of God from public places and public forums, demeaning those who hold to the precepts of God, redefining the meaning of family, tolerating the corruption of morality even among its leaders and ignoring the consequences, the judgment of God as seen in natural disasters and in the removal of His sovereign hand of protection. We have polluted the land with the blood of the unborn. Morally, America has never sunk so low. Only the mercy of an Almighty God can save us from ourselves. The time is critical. We must cry out to God for mercy on our nation and our world; we cannot be guilty of not calling upon his name and asking for help.

Going forward I'm committed to _______.

Additional Scripture Support: Dan. 2:21, Psalm 103:13, 17, Exodus 33:19, Hosea 2:23, Isaiah 60:10, Eph. 2:4, Psalm 111:4, Rom 2:4

Praying through scripture:
dan. 9:16-19 (MSG)
Jesus, following the lines of what you have always done in setting things right, setting people right, please look kindly on us- your nation, your world, your holy mountain. We know it's our fault that these things are happening, all because of our sins and our parents' sins, and now we're an embarrasment to everyone around us. So listen, God, to this determined prayer of your servant. Have mercy on your ruined Sanctuary. Act out of who you are, not out of what we are. Turn your ears away, God, and listen. We know that we don't deserve a hearing from you. Our apeal is to your compassion, listen to us, forgive us, don't put us out- this nation and this world are yours and you have a stake in us. Amen

"

I think this has been the most powerful thing that I've read out of my devotional. Oddly enough, this has also definitely been my weakest point in my fast. It's cool how at our weakest, God shows us his best.

That verse from Isaiah is powerful and vivid. I can only imagine the pain God feels being ready, shouting to his people, waiting for them all day long.

I don't want to keep God waiting. And I'm sorry that I do so often, God.

Going forward I'm committed to being present in front of my God. Father, I need your mercy, but I can only get it if I come to your feet. Here I am, God. Have mercy on me.

day 17- the right place

day 17, and I'm not going to lie. Today I was dreading the fact that I had to come home and take the time to write a blog post. And I will say that this will be short, but to the point.

So I was driving home and I was thinking about being busy, and how God, like any good father, obviously understands when we are really busy. But at the same time, like any father, he'd still like us to check in with him before we rush off on our way. It doesn't mean that we can't get things done we are supposed to get done- because God wants us to work and put our whole hearts into it. But at the same time, constantly checking in and coming to him will help put your head in the right place in order to keep up with the rest of the day.

When I prayed in my car before I left work, I realized that I could think a lot clearer afterwards, and that it would be a lot easier for me to continue to work from home (oh the joys of grad school).

a lot of what I'm saying can be found in an awesome book called Too Busy Not to Pray- so if you have more time than I do tonight, you should check it out. :-)

So short and sweet, here I am, checking in and staying focused. Because God focuses me to keep on going, even when I'm tired.

day 17- raisens and almonds, broccoli, and i'm cooking vegetable soup right now

Day 16 devotional- unity

here's the prayer guide's lesson for today:

"

Unity

Scripture: John 17:21 (NLT) I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one- as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.

Personal reflection: It is no small thing for believers to be one in heart, mind, and ambition. Unity is based on love, grace, patience and humility- maturing as individuals so that we can esteem others as greater than ourselves. No small task, for sure, but we have to remember what Jesus did for us to bring us all together in unity regardless of religious differences, cultural differences or economic differences glorifies God and builds his kingdom. We need each other, and this is why we are instructed to be patient, speak the truth in love, bear with one another, think of ourselves in humility and understand that grace has been pured out in Christ. We do this so that the world will believe in Jesus- because we look like him. If we truly desire unity, love is the place we must start.

Going forward I'm committed to _______.

Additional Scripture support: Eph. 4:3-1, 10-13, Phil 2:1, Col 2:2, 1 Cor 12:12-26, Rom. 6:4-5, 15:5-6

Praying through scripture:
psalm 133:1, eph. 4:13, col. 3:13-14 (MSG)
Jesus, it is wonderful and beautiful when brothers and sisters get along. Help us to get along with one another, learning to be considerate of each other, cultivating a life in common. Working within your body, the church, we are all moving rhythmically and easily with each other, efficient and graceful in response to you, as fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive in you. So, because we are chosen for this new life, let us wear compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength and discipline. Being even-tempered, content with second place and quick to forgive offenses as quickly and completely as you've forgiven us. And above all else, let us wear love- it's your basic all-purpose garment and we should never be without it. Amen.

"

Two of the most popular books on the christianity debate are the case for christ and the god delusion. One book is about a former atheist who seeks to disprove christity scientifically and turns into a christian himself, stating that there is more evidence for god than against. the other is about a former christian who looks at the world around him and how people treat each other and comes to the conclusion that a God cannot exist. Above scientific evidence, people notice how we interact with each other.

People see us. They look at Christians, and if the don't see God in them, they are discouraged.

When we make Christianity like an inclusive click, we jade people. When we purposely invite some people to bible study and avoid asking others, people notice. Christianity is about UNITY, not picking who we want to join. It's about looking at every single individual as a potential brother and sister, and as such, a potential part of our body. When we label ourselves as Christians, and then don't help the needy around us, people notice.

One of the biggest critiques about Haiti right now is that people are only helping because it's fashionable, while they hide from other people in need. As my roommate put it, Haiti is more popular than American Idol right now, and we've got t-shirts and wristbands to prove it. Which is wonderful that at least it's motivating people to help. But we need to realize that Christianity isn't always fashionable. We need to wear the garments of love and mercy all the time, not just when it's convenient. Not just when we can flaunt it. Not like a popularity contest. We need to wear mercy and love consistantly. Because people notice.

Going forward, I'm committed to reminding myself that unification means everyone. It means seeing them as a part of ourselves, connectiong through our Father. If they are not healthy, neither is the body, Lord. I'm committed to noticing need, and wearing love in response.

day 16- mind, soul, and body

Today I realized that in the beginning of this blog I posted reasons to fast, and along the way I've mentioned 100 times that fasting is hard, but I never talked about preparation.

It's really hard to jump into a fast and do it right without prepping first. I'm sure everyone has heard at church sayings like "let us prepare our hearts and our minds for worshipping the Lord." It's the same with fasting. We have to open ourselves up, in more ways than one. So here are a few tips if you plan on fasting in the future:

1. Preparing your mind

Make sure that you are serious about your fast. Are you doing it for the right reasons? Are you committed to it?

One way to really prepare your mind is to talk about your plans with other people- it's great to find an accountability partner that you can talk to before, and during your fast. Your fast shouldn't necesarily be a rash decision- it should be thought and planned out.

Another thing to prep for is the temptations- reading scripture about fasting is really good for this. Especially when Jesus is tempted by the devil in the wilderness. One of the things that strikes me the most is when the devil says, "hey, you're the son of God. You can turn this stone into bread." and Jesus responds that Man doesn't live on bread alone, but by the Word of God.

What's really cool about this scenario is that during your fast its not that food isn't available- fasting is a choice. It's a way to devote yourself further to God and focus more on his Word- to empty out your body of worldly things that control you and fill yourself up with the right kind of control.

2. Preparing your soul

We have to be available to God. Preparing our soul means allowing the holy spirit to guide us. A good way to do this is praying for your fast beforehand. Asking God to help you find direction and strength through him while you fast. It's a great idea to ask people to pray over you as well- prayer is strong.

3. Preparing your body

People don't usually think about this, but the right diet beforehand can help you in your fast to be able to concentrate much better.

You have to realize that some food habits can't be dropped cold turkey.

I take an entire week to prepare my diet before I fast. I ween myself off of as much sugar, caffeine, and even salt as I can before I start. It's best to slowly drink things that arn't high in any of these to prepare for just water. If you're used to a lot of sugar or caffeine- obviously, you're going to be really really tired and even have a headache during your fast. If you suddenly drop salt from your diet, your blood pressure will drop and you'll be really lethargic.

the other thing to realize is that overeating before a fast actually hurts you. It causes your metabolism to increase, even if you're just doing 24 hours, so by dinner the next day you'll feel awful. Limiting your portions beforehand is a great way to slow your metabolism so that you don't drastically change your eating habits by starting to fast.

So, small portions of bland foods and drinks are best. If not, you are really going to struggle when you try to go off it. Withdrawal is awful. And it can turn your concentration to your body instead of inward to God.

4. Know your body's limitations

If you're signed up for a 5k over the weekend, it's not the best idea to fast. Understand that your diet change is going to leave your body feeling slightly empty, and pushing it isn't good. Also, if you're under 18, you are probably still growing, and I wouldn't recommend doing a fast for more than 24 hours unless you are eating something still. When you plan when to fast, then, make sure you clear your schedule of strenuous things. Anyhow, it's your focus on God time.

I hope this breakdown helps you all think a little bit more about what you're signing onto, and that (lame teacher moment) preparation is the key to success!

day 16- apple, tomato soup, yellow curry vegetables

day 15 devotional- leadership

The prayer guide for today switches it's focus for the last time. The first week we explored renewing ourselves, the second week we explored renewal in the body of christ, and this week we will explore renewal in our nation and world.

And so the first topic is leadership. Here's what the book says for today:

"

Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1-3 (NLT) I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior.

Personal Reflection:
God gives us clear instructions in the Word to pray for our leaders and those in authority over us. We never want our leaders to fail because they arn't properly covered in prayer and protection. Often we spend more time complaining about what our leaders have been doing/not doing then we spend in prayer regarding them. In American, we have the right to question to decisions of our leaders, but, as Christians, that should never be done in a disrespectful manner or while neglecting our call to prayer. Everyone in authority over us- in our government, our church, our community and our family- needs our prayers for strength and wisdom so that we might have peace and salvation as a nation.

Going forward I'm committed to _________.

Additional Scripture Support: Rom. 13:1-6. Isaiah 96:7, Prov. 21:1, Jer. 29:7, Matt. 18:19&20, Psalm 20, Prov. 15:34

Praying through scripture:
Proverbs 4:5, 10:9, 24:6, Psalm 46:1-3 (MSG)
Jesus, I thank you for those you've placed in authority over me, my leaders. I ask that you lead them to wisdom and developing good judgment. Help them to not forget your word or deviate an inch from it. I ask that you help them live in honesty and have carefree, confident lives. But if there's anything shifty, I trust you to expose it. I pray that you help them to make the right strategic plans and surround themselves with good counsel. Be a safe place for them and their families, ready to help them when they need it so that they can stand fearless because they know you are fighting for them and protecting them. Amen.

"


As everyone knows, I am a criticizer. I critique movies, books, school, actions, pretty much anything I can. And I always have something negative to say.

But with people, it's different. My problem isn't criticizing as much as it is letting things slide- justifying people as people....who make mistakes. But I don't go back and pray. I let things go; I brush them off. And we all watch T.V. and see our Pat Rs and our Rob Bs and our Joel Os and when they say something ridiculous like that Haiti deserved an earthquake because God wants them to all repent we critique or we try to justify why they said something so silly. Or we say they arn't really Christians. But the fact is they ARE LEADERS AND PEOPLE FOLLOW THEM. And because of that, we NEED to put them on our prayer lists and pray for God to come into them and to fill them to say things that help bring people closer to Him and not further away.

Going forward I'm committed to praying over prominant leaders, asking God to allow their leadership to glorify His name.

day 15- falling down gracefully

This post is for everyone who's tried to fast and messed up.

Since two posts ago I wrote about the right reasons to break a fast, today I wanted to talk about the right ways to follow through when you break a fast for selfish reasons.

Fasting is hard. I'm not the first to say that, and I definitely won't be the last. I've fasted many, many times for the wrong reasons. I've broken fasts many, many times for the wrong reasons.

And so while the worst thing we can do is sit in our guilt about it, there are some highly productive responses to mess-ups.

So what can you do in order to fall down gracefully?

1. Don't hide it.

Maybe one of the worst things you can do during a fast is break your fast and pretend like you havn't. To eat in privacy, and then tell people your fast is going great.

One time I read this article online about how a man was standing on the side of the interstate all day with a sign that said, "I cheated on my wife and this is my punishment." Um...DON'T do that. I'm not saying that you have to proclaim to the world that you broke your fast. But it is good to have accountability partners to confide in when you are weak, and if people ask, it's clearly wrong to tell them it's going great.

And, in all honesty, sometimes telling people you messed up is better ministry than saying you're succeeding. It can lead to discussions about the strength of Jesus, his 40 days in the wilderness; it can lead to conversations about forgiveness; plainly stated, it puts the gospel out there.

2. Don't give up.

You break your fast, ok. Do it again in replacement. Or, if it's a long fast, KEEP GOING. Stopping is the most heartbreaking thing you can possibly do. Think back to when we talked about how falling into sin is gradual- it's the same concept. We mess up once, so we're ok with messing up again, or loosening our standard, or even quitting.

Remember that God is way above time, so, unlike the classes I teach, make-ups for failures are completely allowed. And hey, remember that thing called perseverance we've been talking about? God wants us to keep coming back to him over and over in our prayers. So pick another time, and try again.

The definition of devotion is profound dedication. When you fall, show God you're willing to get up over and over and over again until you get it right in order to glorify Him.

3. God notices

In order to keep this blog from getting horribly long, I'll end on this note. (If you'd like to add more productive ways to go about messing up, please post comments).

God notices.

One of my favorite movies of all time is a spanish movie called Pan's Labyrinth. It has large christian motifs told through both a realistic war and fairy tales.

So there is the part where the main character, a young girl, is in a fairy tale world pursuing a quest- she must use a key to retrieve something. She is told that when she goes, she should not eat anything. When she gets there, there is a huge table with a feast set out, and as she examines the table, she plucks a few tiny grapes and eats them. When she does, this horrible monster awakens and follows her, and she barely escapes. Even then, two of her fairies get eaten by the monster.

What strikes me the most in this scene is after the fact, when she is apologizing, she says, "It was just a few grapes. I didn't think anyone would notice."

Sometimes we do really minor things like slip a few grapes when we are fasting. Sometimes we do minor things like tell a small, white lie. Sometimes we do horrible, much bigger things wrong.

But it doesn't matter. And so my point here is thank God that He notices our mistakes, because how else could He have sent his son to wash us clean?

God notices everything. He knows your soul. And because of that we all owed the same debt to Him- total. But he sent his son Jesus to die on a cross so that when he looks at us he doesn't see our mistakes or our sins anymore, he sees us as clean and beautiful and forgiven.

There is beauty in falling. There is beauty in breaking. Psalm 145 tells us that when we fall God lifts us back up. He notices us. And that's the gospel.

day 15- apple, stir fry veggies, kidney bean soup

day 14 devotional- participation

here's what the lovely book tells us for today!

"

Participation

Scripture: Eph. 4:15 & 16 (NLT) Instead, we speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of the body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.

Personal Reflection: Too often, we treat Christianity as a spectator sport with a few good players doing all of the work, while everyone else stands on the sidelines cheering them on. but our faith is not a football game,; it's the hope of the world for salvation and every one of us is needed so that the other parts grow and the body is healthy. As believers, we've all been given the gift of the Holy Spirit so that we can complete the work of the ministry. When everyone isn't doing their part, the whole body suffers. But with each one doing our part the whole body grows up and reflects the righteous character of Jesus Christ. This is the goal of our Christian life and what God has in mind for his church in the last days. Ask God to reveal where we arn't participating and to make us one so that the earth can be enlightened with his glory.

Going forward, I'm committed to _________.

Additional Scripture Support: Jam.1:27, Rom. 12:13, Thes. 5:14, Rom. 12:1&2, Col. 3:1, 1 Thes. 4:1, Titus 4:1, 1Pet. 1:13, Rom. 1:11

Praying through scripture: Philippians 2:12-17 (MSG)
Jesus, help your church to redouble its efforts, to be energetic in our life of salvation, reverent and sensitive before you. Our energy comes from you and is deep within us because you are willing and working at what will bring you the most pleasure. Help us to do everything readily and cheerfully- no bickering and no second guessing- so that your church can go out into the world uncorrupted, a breath of fresh air in the squalid and polluted society. You need all of us to provide people with a glimpse of good living and of you, the living God. We are living proof that you didn't come for nothing, let us carry the light-giving message of your love into the night so that when you return you will be proud of us. Amen.

"


One thing I love about church is that is is a full body, or at least it should be. I thank God for my current church so often because, even though we are only 2 years young, I see a body. I am thankful that my church is multiracial, that it has babies to seniors; college students and full families. I am thankful that we have people with wisdom, and people with other various gifts, such as teaching, giving, music, and hospitality. I love my church because its a big soup pot of mixture, and it's not simply hands hanging out with hands or feet with feet, it's a full and complete body taking care of every part. I learn so much from the married families about loving and selflessness and encouragement; the college kids give us so much energy and passion (and I love when we yell Amen during the sermon), our youth just has to giggle and we feel great inside. All of our talents bring us to be able to volunteer in the church in every way, so that everything is provided for, whether its nursery duty, picking up donuts, ministering to middle school kids, singing, or preaching, it's there. Our church functions and provides and it's so good for me.

But we are young and growing, and still learning how to do things. That's what this fast is for- we want to pray for direction in many ways- about starting missions trips, about helping our community more, about finding a larger venue to meet at, about fundraising.

Going forward, I'm committed to being a part of a whole, fasting with a larger body in order to assist the entire body. I am committed to helping and encouraging and keeping my church healthy, and not just not single church, Lord, but your entire community of believers. But also, Lord, I want to remember to praise you and thank you for what the awesome community you've placed me in. Because it's great. And I feel You. And I am encouraged.

day 14- fasting, prayer, and persistance

Day 14! Which means it's Sunday, and that I have one week left of fasting.

The sermon today at my church was absolutely amazing, and all about prayer- so I completely recommend it later.

For today's post, I wanted to use the scripture we used today at church, but take it a slightly different way.

So, here's the scripture; be sure especially to pay attention to the middle part, which is a story:

Luke 11:1-10

One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."

He said to them, "When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day out daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."

Then he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend, and he goes to him as midnight and says, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, because a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him.' Then the one inside answers, 'Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children are with me in bed. I can't get up and give you anthing.' I tell you, though he will not get up and give him the bread because he is his friend, yet because of the man's boldness he will get up and give him as much as he needs."

"So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks recieves; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened."


Ok. So, let's tear up the story he tells. A man comes to his friend in the middle of the night for assistance helping his other friend-

Right there. What does that say? He's coming forward not about himself, but about his friend. Jesus tells his disciples how to pray for themselves, and secondly, how to come forward and ask for things for their others in need that they cannot provide for them by themselves.

But secondly, the timing isn't right. The man inside at first says no, it's late. I'm not getting up. But then Jesus continues, saying that the man would not get up because it was his friend, but he would because of his boldness. In Hebrew the word for boldness here is more of persistance. And hey, if a man kept knocking at my window begging me for something I had, I'd eventually get up.

He goes on to tell his disciples directly, "he who seeks finds."

He's telling his disciples to come to the Lord for any needs. A prayer isn't a prayer if you arn't bringing it to God. Seek God out. How many times have you told someone you'd pray for them, but then later didn't seek God out?

And secondly, Jesus is saying to be persistant.

Sometimes, a one-shot prayer isn't convincing enough that we need. If we say it once, and then forget and go about our way, it doesn't show much. But if we are persistant, if we fast and pray the same prayers over, that is when we start to be able to hear God, and listen and understand.

And so, I've discovered another reason for fasting- to show your persistance to God. I've never done such a long term fast this intense before, and it's really been good so far. I feel more committed to God than I have for a long time; possibly since I first came to Christ as a relationship my freshman year of college. And that's awesome.

day 14- apple, tomato soup, really good thai style stir fried veggies and pinapple.

day 13 devotional- restoration

Here's what my 21 day fasting book has for today:

Scripture:
Acts 3:19 & 20 (NLT) Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. Then times of refreshment will come from the presence of the Lord, and he will again send you Jesus, your appointed Messiah. For he must remain in heaven until the time of final restoration of all things, as God promised long ago through his holy prophets."

Personal Reflection:
The body of Christ today is not healthy. But there is much room for hope; God's word reveals his plans for a complete spiritual restoration of his Church. Throughout the Word, we find God's plans to bring his followers to a place of renewal and recovery so that his work can continue on the earth until he returns. It's time to stand together and believe for a widespread, heartfelt repentence in the body of Christ and a renewed hunger for righteousness and personal holiness. God promises hat the latter will be greater than the former, so let's believe him for a restoration of his Spirit and manifestation of his miraculous power that far exceeds that of the church of Acts- because that's what HE promises us! Ask that God would restore the fivefold ministry in these latter days so that the Body of Christ may be built up an prepared for the workds of service.

Going forward I'm committed to ________

Additional Scripture Support:
Isa. 59:11&12, Acts 2:37-38, Matt. 5:6, 3:11, Heb 13:8, Hab. 3:2, Col 1:18, Acts 2:42, Matt. 19:27, Eph. 4:11&12

Praying through scripture:
Psalm 50:10-18 (MSG)
Jesus, create a fresh start in your church, shape a Genesis week from the chaos. Don't throw us out with the trash, or fail to breathe holiness. Bring us back from a gray exile, put a fresh wind in our sails. Give us the job of teaching the rebellious your ways so the lost can find their way home. Commute our death sentence, God, our saving God, and we will sing anthems to your life-giving ways. Unbutton our lips, dear God; we'll let loose with your praise. Gioing through the motions doesn't please you; a flawless performance is nothing to you. We learn God-worship when our pride is shattered. Heart-shattered lives ready for love don't for a moment escape your notice. Make your church a place you delight in, repair our broken down walls. Amen.

"

When a body isn't healthy, the first thing you need to do is admit it's sick and go to the doctor. In the same way, when we sin, we need to go to our father and repent in order to be healed.

I have a horrible habit of getting sick and postponing going to the doctor until I am horribly ill; last year I ended up with scarlet fever.

And I don't want to be that way about God. I want to go to him the minute I feel ill, the minute I do something I know was wrong. I want to be renewed.

Going forward I am committed to not sitting in my filth until I am covered from head to toe, but repeatedly going to my father whenever I need restoration. right away.

day 13- fasting, breaking, and legalism

So I've had multiple discussions with friends from my church about this, so I thought it would be a good post topic.

In what situations should you break your fast in order to avoid it becoming legalistic?

We've all heard the bible stories in which Jesus comes and shows many people that their legalism (or obediance to the laws) is actually holding them from furthering the kingdom of God.

For example, Jesus heals a lame man (who cannot walk) on the sabboth, even though no work is supposed to be done.

Paul even goes as far to say that against love there is no law.

But does this mean that we *need* to break fasting at some point in time in order to show love is above law? Of course not! That's absolutely ridiculous. We set ourselves out to do a certain thing in God's glory- so why break it?

Well, I think we have to ask ourselves in the given context we want to break it:

Would breaking my fast glorify God more than continuing it?

If you think you're developing an eating disorder by fasting, then STOP. If you're Daniel fasting and a poor person asks if you would be willing to trade your vegetable soup you made for a ramen they have, why not? If you attend a wedding reception in celebration of a union between God and two people, celebrate without guilt.

But if you want some ice cream because you've been good so far, probably not so much.

I think a good question to consider when you're eating something not on your allowed list for fasting is: Is the food I'm eating for the glory of God or for the glory of me? and even Am I using God as an excuse to eat this?

I see this happen a lot not with fasting, but with sin too. We curse or we drink too much or get too close to each other and we say it's because we don't want to be legalistic like the pharisees, but it's an excuse. It's twisting the bible into saying something it doesn't really say.

I think this passage from Paul in Romans really says it best, and so I'm going to end on that for today:

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans%207&version=NIV

day 13- lots of fruit and salad

day 12 devotional- worship

Here's what the guide book says for today

"

scripture:
John 4:23-24 (nlt) But the time is coming- indeed it's here now- when true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who wil worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth."

Personal reflection:
The purpose of our worship is to glorify, honor, praise, exalt and please God. Worship demonstrates our adoration and loyalty to God for his grace in providing us a way to escape the bondage of sin, so we can have the salvation he so much wants to give us. True worship is an act of humility that must be done from the heart and according to God's Word. As we worship God, in spirit and in truth, we acknowledge his holiness and our own unworthiness. This type of worship not only honors God, but edifies and strengthens us. We become more like the object of our admiration; developing the traits of a holy God. Ask the Holy Spirit to unleash a new wind of worship upon his church; piercing our hearts with a fresh understanding of holiness and humility that we might be true worshippers.

going forward i'm commited to ____

Additional scripture support:
james 4:6&8, jer 10:23, Phil 2:5, rom 12:2, col 3:2, 1 cor 6:20, psalm 89.7, mark 7:6, heb 12:28-29, 1 peter 1:15-16

Praying through scripture:
acts 17:24-29
Jesus, we worship you because you made the world and everything in it and, you, the master of the sky and land, don't live in houses made by man or need us to run your errands; as if you couldn't do it yourself. You made us, we didn't make you; starting from scratch, you made the entire human race and made the earth livable, with plenty of time and space for everything so we could seek after you, not just grope around in the dark, but actually find you. You are not far away, you are near- we live and move in you; can't get away from you. Give your church a fresh understanding of your majesty and pour out a new wind of worship that honors and magnifies because you are worthy. Amen

"


One of my greatest downfalls with worship is that sometimes when I do the same things over and over again, I don't pay attention to them anymore. I sing the world by heart, but I phase out and just do it without concentration. Same thing with reading scripture.

And then I have to go back and remind myself how POWERFUL those words are, even for the 800th time. And I have to refocus and reconcentrate. And it's great.

So, for today, going forward I'm committed to renewal in my worship- to trying to worship fully with all of my attention on God.

day 12- the good, the bad, and the mundane

today i'm going to continue on the idea janelle and I talked through that fasting is designed to demonstrate what controls you.

so quite often during fasting I have bad or hard days and I come home and I think to myself, "I want ice cream. I deserve it." or i want ramen. or rice. or bread. or brownies. or coffee.

or cigarettes; or alcohol; or watching trashy tv.

this list goes on and on, doesn't it?

And so I have two questions today that I think everyone should reflect on.

1. What do you rely on when you're down?

One of the cool things about fasting is that most of the things I crave when I'm upset I can't have right now. And that helps me to refocus on God.

Where do you turn to instead of God? And is it productive? Or does it tear you down more?

Does it make you a slave to it, or does it glorify?

So I made a list of all the things I do when I'm upset. And they arn't good. Sure, some of them are semi-harmless, and some of them, like running, arn't horrible, but it's the way I go about them that's not good. My mentality is all wrong.

and, as sherwin put it

2. Do you remember your maker when you are happy?

When you feel good, when you arn't in need, do you forget?

Even after I'm done fasting, I want to actively seeking God during the good, the bad, and the mundane in betweens.

day 12- grapefruit, vegetable soup, lima beans and onions