2025 Daniel Fast

What is the Daniel Fast?
The Daniel fast is a Biblically based “partial fast” where diet is restricted to the foods that Daniel ate during two occasions mentioned in the book of Daniel (Daniel 1:8-16 and Daniel 10:2-3).
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Why Fast?
Fasting is a spiritual discipline that we may not practice as regularly as prayer or Bible study, but it is an important part of the Christian life and can be used as a regular part of a spiritual practice (Luke 2:37, 2 Cor. 11:27), when an urgent request is made to God (Matthew 17:21), or as a corporate act (Esther 4). Fasting (water fast or this partial fast) also has numerous scientifically proven health benefits!*
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Plan Your Fast
There are two time lengths mentioned in Daniel –
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10 days (Daniel 1:8-16)
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21 days (Daniel 10:2-3)
Choose the length of time that will work best for you.
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It’s easier to focus on what to eat than on what not to eat. Daniel’s fast consisted of “pulse” which is basically foods that are grown from seeds. The Daniel fast has also been expanded by some to include a “whole food, plant-based diet.” Here are two suggestions for your Daniel fast:
The Original (“Pulse”)
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Fruits
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Vegetables
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Legumes (Beans)
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Nuts/Seeds
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Water
Modified
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Fruits
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Vegetables
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Legumes (Beans)
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Nuts/Seeds
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Whole Grains
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Limited Quality Oils (olive, canola, grape seed, peanut, sesame) & Seasonings
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Tofu
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Water
Avoid processed foods as much as possible - the less ingredients on a package the better!
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Tip: If you drink coffee, prepare by removing coffee from your diet a couple of days before the fast to help minimize the impact of headaches/withdrawal during your fast.
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Set Your Intention
What is your purpose for this fast?
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You may have a specific need or request that you are seeking God’s guidance on that you would like to focus on during this fast.
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You may want to add fasting as a regular part of your worship experience.
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You may want to join other church members in praying specifically that God will lead, guide, and bless our ministry in Bethel in 2025.
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(There may be others!)
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Join Us
The Bethel SDA Church Health Ministries Department is encouraging members to Daniel Fast during the month of February (February 2-11 for ten days; February 2-22 for 21 days).
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For potlucks on February 8, 15, and 22, there will be Daniel Fast friendly dishes available!
You should consult your doctor before starting the fast, especially if you have a medical condition or are pregnant or nursing. You should not rely on information about the Daniel Fast as a substitute for medical advice.
*https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fasting-benefits; https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/plant-based-diet-guide.