nancyforvvag

Daniel's Fast 2012 completion

2012-01-30T23:39:00.000-08:00

As the fast is ending now, please post comments (positive or negative) of what you gleaned by being on this fast. Maybe it was a blessing or a lesson, perhaps a sacrifice brought big rewards, or just how it affected you participating in this fast.
Thanks, Nancy

2012-01-28T14:51:00.000-08:00

DAY 20: Jan. 28, 2012: DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

Romans 12:12¹² When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.

Wow this verse says a lot in few words! The certainty of our hope is a pretty cause for our hope, I’m sure you agree. We should not only pray during hard times, but also maintain communion with God through prayer at ALL TIMES!

Breakfast Home Fries (not just for breakfast)

First of all, these delicious home fries (or breakfast fries) are not French fries. Instead they are meant to be eaten with a fork, are an excellent addition to most meals – especially breakfast – and a good way to feed a lot of people cheaply and easily. For a potato with a lower glycemic index, opt for a red skinned or sweet potato – these types have a similar texture and quality, but without the spiked insulin response. Serve this dish with unsweetened natural applesauce or try them with black bean chili and salsa!

Ingredients:

3 Russet potatoes, scrubbed and cubed to 1/2-inch

1 onion, thinly sliced

4 teaspoons soy sauce

¼ teaspoons black pepper

½ teaspoons paprika or chili powder

5-6 cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters (optional)

2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)

Preparation:

1. Steam the potatoes over boiling water for approximately 10 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a sharp knife; remove from the heat and set aside.

2. In a large nonstick skillet, heat ¼ cup water over medium heat and add the onion. Cook, stirring frequently, until the water has evaporated and the onion begins to stick to the pan.

3. While scraping the pan, add another ¼ cup water. Cook until the onion begins to stick again, adding additional water as needed; continue cooking for approximately 15 minutes or until the onion is very brown and sweet.

4. Add the potatoes, soy sauce, black pepper and paprika or chili powder. Cook, turning gently with a spatula, until the potatoes are golden brown.

5. Garnish with the cherry tomatoes and the green onions.

Makes 4 servings

DAY 18, Jan. 27, 2012: DEVO & RECIPE of the day:

2012-01-27T17:00:00.000-08:00

DAY 18: DEVO & RECIPE of the day:

Psalm 107:1
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

This verse says it all—GOD IS SO AMAZININGLY GOOD how can we not be thankful? Besides that, he is forever enduring to us!

Smokey Stuffed Peppers

This is a great main dish for the Daniel Fast. It uses tofu for the protein source. 2 Tbs olive oil
2 stalks celery, minced (1/2 cup)
1 medium onion, minced
2 Tbs poultry seasoning
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 canned chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, drained and minced
2 cups cooked brown rice or wild rice medley
1/2 cup yellow raisins
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1 tsp liquid smoke flavoring
5 oz tofu, mashed
3 red bell peppers, laved lengthwise
Preheat oven to 400 degrees

Heat oil in pan over medium heat. Add celery, onion, poultry seasoning, and garlic. Saute until soft (about 7 minutes).
Stir in chipotle pepper and saute 2 more minutes.
Add rice, raisins and broth; cook for about 5 minutes. This should be the consistency of stuffing.
Meanwhile, mash tofu and then mix with enough liquid smoke flavoring to your taste (a little goes a long way). Divide the tofu among the pepper halves then top with rice mixture.
Place peppers in 9″ x 12″ casserole dish. Add water until it comes 1/2″ up sides of peppers.
Bake for 30 minutes or until peppers are soft and the stuffing is hot.

Yield: 6 servings

DAY 16, Jan 25, 2012; DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

2012-01-25T14:03:00.000-08:00

Mark 12.30

³⁰ Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.
I keep falling in love with Him over and over and over again. The closer I get to Jesus, the more I love him, his word and his Spirit. How about you, feeling refreshed in His love? This verse (Mark 12.30) directs us to the #1 most important commandment of all—very basic—simply love HIM totally.

Pasta with Pesto Sauce

Another simple and delicious family favorite: The crunch of pine nuts combined with the nutty flavor of whole grain pasta in a heavenly pesto cream sauce. Just add a garden salad, some garlic flat bread and you’re transported to another world!

Ingredients:

1 pound whole grain pasta

2 garlic cloves

2 cups packed fresh basil leaves

½ cup pine nuts

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup hot water

Salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions.

2. Combine the garlic, basil leaves, and pine nuts in a blender and process on low speed. With the blender running, slowly add the olive oil, followed by the hot water. Add salt to taste and continue processing until the pesto is smooth and creamy.

3. Drain the pasta and toss in the pesto sauce.

Makes 4 to 6 servings

DAY 15, Jan. 24, 2012 DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY:

2012-01-24T13:59:00.001-08:00

Jeremiah 17:7-8

⁷ “But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him.
⁸ They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

In Hebrew the “root” illustrates the source of the righteous man’s strength. How deep do your “roots” go? I want my spiritual roots do dig deeper during this fast. I am finding more strength than ever lately. God is the main power source.

Recipe: In honor of National Peanut Butter Day (who knew?)….

Try Natural Peanut Butter on your fruit—such as: apples, pears & bananas to name a few also a good snack to put PB on brown rice cakes!

DAY 14: Jan. 23, 2012 Devo & recipe of the day

2012-01-23T09:17:00.000-08:00

Genesis 1:26

²⁶ Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,^[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

“When people look at us do they do they get confused thinking they are seeing Jesus?” --Pastor Richard Varnell, from yesterday’s sermon at VVAG. Draw near to the Lord and he will draw near to us. The closer we get in relationship with the Lord the more we reflect him. Fasting provides that closeness! I’m enjoying my closeness with the Lord I trust you are as well.

Protein enhanced Oatmeal
Want to include more protein into your breakfast? Here’s a twist on the everyday oatmeal…
Prepare your oatmeal as usual. Add some natural peanut butter & mix in. I also add ground flax seed to mine to provide healthy omega 3’s & even extra fiber. This meal will keep you full for hours!

DAY 11, Jan 20, 2012: DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY:

2012-01-20T22:40:00.000-08:00

Ephesians 6:10
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power
Daniel was stronger post fast than his counterparts who indulged in the “choice foods”. We can’t underestimate the power of God. As we are called into this fast, God will strengthen us in ways beyond our expectations. His power is invincible. I’m seeing God’s hand move in mighty ways during this fast.
NANCY’S CRANBERRY SAUCE:
1 pkg fresh or frozen whole cranberries
1 cup water
1 can unsweetened applesauce
1 orange or 2-3 fresh mandarin oranges or tangerines, peeled & cut into small pieces
Raisins
Cinnamon
Nuts: pecans pieces , chopped walnuts or slivered almonds
Instructions: In a saucepan bring 1 cup water to boil, add whole cranberries and return to a boil; stir occasionally until their skins pop. Add applesauce & orange pieces & raisens stirring until mixture comes to a boil again. Remove from heat. Stir in nuts.
Serve warm or chilled. Makes a great topping for the oatmeal bars!

DAY 10 JAN. 18, 2012: DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY:

2012-01-18T08:23:00.000-08:00

1 Timothy 1:12

¹² I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service.

This passage is referring to the Lord’s grace to Paul, it also applies to us today. He is giving us strength daily and he is finding us to be trustworthy as we serve him. Fasting has many elements to it…one of which is standing strong to the commitment we have made to fast. We are “sacrificing” something to be in a better position to hear from God. When we “forsake” for Him he pours out his blessings & grace to us. Our hearts our right and we are more open to his leading & anointing to serve.

THE SIMPLE POTATO

Ever thought of just baking a potato, either white or sweet, in the oven or microwave?

Potato: A basic food in & of-itself. White potato’s can be topped with fresh salsa or even squeeze lemon on it! Sweet potatoes are yummy sprinkled with cinnamon! Both are healthy and Daniel approved!

DAY 9: JAN. 17, 2012 DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

2012-01-17T08:47:00.000-08:00

Philippians1.6 ⁶ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

This verse is of hope for the finish line. The literal meaning of the “good work” refers to the action of salvation, the “work” is not only God has done “for” us (salvation) but also “in” us as the result of the salvation experience. So it is with this fast. How has God been answering your prayers so far? What spiritual growth have you seen within you own life? Our day of completion isn’t necessarily the final day of our fast but literal scriptural reference here to the day of the Lord’s return. So keep pressing on, dig deeper for your spiritual growth, which is the “in” us development.

Polenta ‘Pizza’ With Pancetta and Spinach

Francesco Tonelli for The New York Times

Time: About 45 minutes, plus one hour’s chilling
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, more for pan 1/2 cup milk, almond or soy Salt 1 cup coarse cornmeal Freshly ground black pepper 1 small onion, chopped (1/2 cup (about 4 ounces) chopped pancetta (omit during fast) 1 pound spinach, washed, trimmed and dried (1 to 1 1/2 cups Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled. (omit during fast))

1. Heat oven to 450 degrees; brush a layer of olive oil on a pizza pan or cookie sheet. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine milk with 2 1/2 cups water and a large pinch of salt. Bring just about to a boil, reduce heat to medium, add cornmeal in a steady stream, whisking all the while to prevent lumps from forming. Turn heat to low & simmer, whisking frequently, until thick, 10 or 15 minutes. If mixture becomes too thick, whisk in a bit more water; you want a consistency approaching thick oatmeal.
2. Stir 1 tablespoon oil into cooked cornmeal (polenta). Spoon it onto prepared pan, working quickly so polenta does not stiffen; spread it evenly to a thickness of about 1/2 inch all over. Sprinkle with salt & pepper, cover baking sheet with plastic wrap & put it in refrigerator until it is firm, an hour or more (you can refrigerate polenta overnight if you prefer).
3. Put polenta in oven, bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it begins to brown & crisp on edges. Meanwhile, put two tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion (and pancetta) and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is soft and (pancetta) is nicely browned, about 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to take onion (& pancetta) out of pan; set aside. Add spinach to skillet, sauté until it releases its water & pan becomes dry; sprinkle with salt & lots of pepper.
4. Take polenta out of oven, (sprinkle with Gorgonzola), then spread onion (pancetta) mixture & spinach evenly (on top of cheese); drizzle with another tablespoon olive oil. Put pizza back in oven for two minutes, or until (cheese begins to melt and pancetta) vegetables are warmed through. Cut into slices & serve hot or at room temperature.
Yield: 4 servings. *( ) not during Daniel Fast.
Variation: Before you put polenta in oven, (top it with thin slices of fresh mozzarella), two or three thinly sliced Roma tomatoes or a bit of tomato sauce, & a handful of fresh basil leaves.

DAY 8: DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

2012-01-16T09:03:00.000-08:00

PROVERBS 16:7
When a man’s ways are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.
Haven’t had your break through yet while fasting? Don’t give up the answer is on the way. We have only been 1 week into this life-changing experience. Keeping the commitment is a lot of the journey to the answers. God will sustain you & uphold you with his right hand, don’t grow faint in well-doing either. If you give up now you could miss out on the victory that lies just around the next corner of this fast. God will support you if you are feeling weak or tired; also read the previous blogs for ways to incorporate more protein into your fast. If you are feeling weak spiritually—feast on the Word of God more. God delights in our worship of him.
CYMBERLYNN'S PASTA AND VEGGIE ONE-POT-MEAL

INGREDIENTS:

1 box of whole wheat pasta (I used organic)
2-3 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup almonds
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 green onions, sliced
1 cup button mushrooms, sliced
2 green squash
2 yellow squash
1 cup frozen green beans, thawed
½ bottle Newman’s Own Olive Oil & Vinegar Salad Dressing
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

PREPARATION:
1. Prepare the pasta using package directions.
2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; sauté the almonds, garlic, green onions and mushrooms until the almonds have browned.
3. Add the zucchini, yellow squash and green beans. Cook until just tender.
4. Add the pasta and gently toss.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the salad dressing and the Dijon mustard. Pour it over the pasta and vegetables and gently toss until well mixed.
Yield: Six or more servings

For more recipes, see the Daniel Fast Cookbooks available at www.Daniel-Fast.com

PROTEIN OPTIONS:

2012-01-15T15:26:00.000-08:00

PACK ON THE PROTEIN:

The average sedentary adult should have 40 grams of protein per 100 pounds of body weight. If you are more active and do walking, running &/or any weight training, up you protein intake to approximately .75 – 1 gram of protein per each pound of body weight. This statistic also includes those that are vegetarian, and there are many foods that do not contain meat that are great protein sources for vegetarians. This list of 10 foods are rich in protein and contain anywhere between 4.6 - 16 grams of protein per serving.
1. Low-Carb Flat Breads
Low-carb flat breads, including mission (whole wheat) tortillas, contain about 30 grams of protein each, making them a great source of protein for vegetarians to choose as part of their diet. Corn tortillas are also Daniel Fast approved.
2. Chick Peas
Chick peas are a food that is full of protein. These beans have 16 grams of protein per 200 gram serving. This is by far one of the best sources of protein for vegetarians.
3. Kidney Beans
Coming in third, kidney beans provide 15 grams of protein per 200 gram serving. Kidney beans are rich in protein, and they are a hearty food as well.
4.Almond Milk
1 cup of Almond milk (unsweetened) contains 1 gram of protein. Also contains 457mg. calcium per cup. Great for cereal or protein shakes.
5. Tofu
Tofu is an alternative to meat. It can be used for cooking various kinds of dishes. A 140 gram serving of tofu contains 11 grams of protein. As well as having a high protein content, tofu is also rich in iron and magnesium.
6. Almonds
Almonds are a nut with a number of health benefits, including having a high amount of protein. A 1/4 cup serving of almonds contains 8 grams of protein. Almonds have a lower saturated fat content and are a great way for vegetarians to get protein.
7. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a high source of protein as well. 30 grams of peanut butter contain 7.5 grams of protein. Although peanut butter is a food that is higher in fat, when added to a vegetarian diet in moderation, it will help to meet the daily recommendation of protein. NATURAL PEANUT BUTTER is really the only type anyone should use—ALWAYS!
8. Soy Milk
Soy milk is another vegetarian food choice that is high in protein. At about 7 grams of protein per 8 ounces of soy-milk, adding this drink to any diet will help reach the daily amount of protein needed by an individual.
9. Dried Apricots
Although at the bottom of the list, dried apricots are also an option that is high in protein. An 8 ounce serving of this dried fruit provides 5 grams of protein. Dried apricots are low in fat and cholesterol and are a great protein option for vegetarians.
10. Avocado
Last but not least is a fruit that is high in protein. Avacado is a protein rich food that provides about 5 grams of protein per 8 ounces mashed. This fruit is great added to any vegetarian diet.
There are a number of foods that provide a protein source for vegetarians. These choices include fruits, vegetables and nuts. When combined with other nutrient rich foods, these vegetarian options help to provide the daily recommended amount of protein.

DAY 7: Jan. 15, 2012 Devo & Recipe of the day

2012-01-15T15:00:00.000-08:00

Matthew 4:10

¹⁰ Jesus said to him…‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.”

As we worship the Lord we feel the freshness in our spirit when the desires of the flesh (i.e.: food) are minimized and the things of the Lord are maximized! It’s easier to hear the voice of the Lord as we focus on Him and not so much on things of this world. Our God is a loving God but jealous…he wants all of our heart—all of the time. Praise God for these 21 days of feasting on the Lord and drawing closer to Him!

Speedy Veggie Chili Courtesy of Paula Deen

Servings: 4 to 6 Prep Time: 15 min Cook Time: 40 min Difficulty: Easy

1 large butternut squash
1 (12 oz.) bag frozen onions and peppers
2 (15 oz.) cans stewed tomatoes, Mexican style
1 can black beans, drained
1 can red beans, drained
2 cups vegetable stock
2 tablespoons chili powder
½ teaspoon cumin
1 tablespoon olive oil
Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

In large soup pot sauté chopped onions in olive oil until tender. Stir in chili powder and cumin. Add butternut squash and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes or until squash is tender but not mushy. Add tomatoes and drained beans and simmer and simmer for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

2012-01-14T16:17:00.000-08:00

DAY 6, JAN 14, 2012 DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

Micah 6:8
⁸. … “And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

It’s all about obedience to the Lord…Daniel’s Fast or normal everyday life…the kind of obedience God expects from his people that’s basically all that God requires of us! He is a God of LOVE & MERCY!

CURRIED RED LENTIL SOUP submitted by Debbie Cornish

2 c. chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
7-1/2 c. water
1 t. ground turmeric
3/4 t. ground cumin
1/2 t. ground ginger
1/4 t. freshly ground black pepper
1/8 t. cayenne pepper
1-1/2 c. red lentils
1 t. red wine vinegar
2 T. chopped fresh parsley (garnish)

Saute the onion and garlic in 1/2 c. of the water in a large pot until the onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Add seasonings and cook for 1 minute. Add the lentils and the remaining water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour. Stir in the vinegar. Garnish with parsley before serving.

DAY 5, Jan. 13, 2012 Devo & Recipe of the Day

2012-01-12T23:53:00.000-08:00

Psalm 103: 2

² Praise the LORD, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits…

While fasting, as we are focusing on our prayer needs, we should never forget to thank Him for all the blessings that we take for granted! Our God lavishes so much on us it’s sometimes all too easy to overlook the MANY benefits.

SPLIT PEA CANNED SOUP!

I found a Daniel’s Fast approved convenient food! All natural ANDERSEN’S Creamy soup Split Pea. It contains only natural vegetables & spices!

Day 4, Jan. 12, 2012 Daily Devo & Recipe

2012-01-11T23:23:00.001-08:00

PROVERBS 16:3
3 Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.
Plans will succeed, goals achieved when God is the author of the plans. Pray, asking God what His plans are for you and mesh His plans with yours equals success!

Peanut Butter and the Daniel Fast By Susan Gregory (& Nancy Jones)
Peanut butter is a great source of protein while on the Daniel Fast. You’ll want to read the label when you purchase peanut butter to make sure it’s free of sugar and chemicals. Look for 100% ‘NATURAL’ Peanut Butter. There are several brands.
I like Adams Natural Peanut Butter (available at Walmart). Granted, you need to stir and keep refrigerated, but that’s one of the prices of not having hydrogenated shortening in your peanut butter. I would far prefer to stir!
I’ve used this peanut butter for years! I love the flavor and it contains peanuts & a trace of salt. No more, no less. Just peanuts, which makes it a perfect Daniel Food ingredient for some sauces & for using with celery, apples, pears or other vegetables—experiment!

DAY 3, JAN. 11, 2012 Devotional & Recipe of the day:

2012-01-10T22:52:00.000-08:00

Lamentations 3:22-24

²² Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.
²³ They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
²⁴ I say to myself, “The LORD is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.”
Do you ever feel like you’re drowning or overwhelmed by this world & all the issues that face us daily? Never fear, God and his great love is near & continuous—ALWAYS! When we go to sleep worried, as we read the Word & pray as we drift off to sleep…WAALA! In the morning we can face the day with a whole new reality of peace because the Lord will NEVER LEAVE US OR FAIL US—it’s virtually IMPOSSIBLE! We just need to feast on Him—the Lord and His unchanging Word. No fasting when it comes to God’s holy word. He is our portion and fulfillment.

Vegetarian Black Beans and Rice

Serves 4 . Prep: 15min Cook: 40min Total: 55min

Directions

In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to package directions. Fluff the rice with a fork.
Meanwhile, heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, oregano, cumin, and coriander. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 minutes, or until the onion begins to soften. Add the bell pepper and cook for 4 minutes longer, or until softened. Stir in the tomato and vinegar and cook for 1 minute. Add the beans, salt, black pepper, and water and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Serve over the rice.

DAY 2: JAN. 10, 2012 Daniel's Fast Day 2

2012-01-09T23:11:00.000-08:00

Devotional: Joel 1: 14

"Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly. Summon the elders and all who live in the land to the house of the Lord your God, and cry out to the Lord."

Fasting was required on the Day of Atonement and also practiced in times of calamity. It was also a sign of penitence & humility.

What are you reasons for participating in the fast this year? What is your prayer focus (cry out to the Lord) while on the fast? Various reasons & prayer focuses but your obedience and sacrifice will prove the call to fast and bring results and spiritual growth. Look to God instead of food. The reason for this fast is bring our heart & spirits closer to the Lord.

Recipe of the day: Sweet Potato Gratin With Pecan Topping

DO AHEAD: Prepare recipe through step 2, and chill the mashed sweet potatoes up to 2 days in advance. NUTRITION (per serving): 230 cal; 5 g pro; 39 g carb; 6 g fiber; 7 g fat; 2.5 g sat fat; 98 mg sodium

PREP TIME 15 minutes TOTAL TIME 1 1/2 hours SERVINGS 8

3 lb sweet potatoes
2 Tbsp soy (butter) spread available at Sprouts Market
1 1/2 tsp finely grated orange zest
2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 Tbsp fresh orange juice
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/3 c pecan halves, coarsely chopped
1/4 c chopped scallion greens

1. Heat oven to 400°F with rack in center position. Prick potatoes several times with fork and wrap each in foil.

2. Roast potatoes until very tender, about 45 minutes. Carefully unwrap foil and halve potatoes. Scoop flesh into bowl. Mash potatoes with butter, zest, juices, garlic, allspice, and sea salt to taste.

3. Reduce heat to 375°F and grease a 1 qt shallow glass pie plate or ceramic baking dish. Spoon potatoes into dish and top with pecans & scallion greens. Bake until potato mixture is hot, about 30 minutes.

Daniel Fast 2012 DAY 1 Monday, Jan. 9

2012-01-08T21:18:00.000-08:00

Verse of the day: 1 Chronicles 16:11
"Seek the Lord and his strength; seek His presence continually"

As we begin this time of fasting together it will become evident sooner or later how weak we are. Fasting shows us how much we rely on the things of this world (food or other addictions) rather than the absolute strength of the Lord. When you begin to feel "weak" and that you can't make it through this "fasting thing" just remember Moses and Jesus and how long they survived! We are so dependent on food and things of this world for our "strength," yet it is only the strength of Lord that we really need for survival.
As we seek after His presence we will begin to feel it a newer dimension than ever before. The word tells us that the Lord will never leave us or forsake us which tells me that His presence the Lord's Spirit will be with us ALWAYS! I really want to be walking in line with and under the presence of the Lord at all times.
I am hoping that by now you have already asked God what your primary fast prayer focus will be. If not, keep seeking God and praying and it will be revealed to you. Log into your journal (that we provided today) or your own personal journal as to see where the Lord has lead you as a result of this fast, time of personal sacrifice.
"Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His presence continually."

Recipe of the day:

Oatmeal Bars very healthy breakfast, snack or dessert!

1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk, soy or coconut milk

¾ cup unsweetened applesauce

¼ cup chopped dried apricots

¼ cup chopped dates or raisins

¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon salt

Additions/variations:

Protein powder Flax seed (ground) ½ cup of mixed dried fruit

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put all ingredients in a large bowl and stir well. Transfer to an 8 by 8-inch baking dish that has been lightly rubbed with olive oil. Pour oatmeal mixture into dish and bake 45-50 minutes or until slightly browned and crispy on top.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 2 squares) recipe can be doubled & baked in a
9x13 pan.

Daniel Fast 2012

2012-01-07T21:07:00.000-08:00

I just made up a great trail mix containing dried cranberries, walnuts, slivered almonds & whole almonds. Lots of protein and natural sweetness of dried cranberries. Any dried fruit can be used as well as any variety of nuts...

Daniel Fast 2012

2012-01-05T00:19:00.000-08:00

"In thouse days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate not 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

Daniel's fast begins Jan. 9, 2012 for the 3rd time. Begin to prepare your heart, soul, and stomach for it by cutting back on caffeine, sugar, white flour, chemicals/food additives, dairy, meat & fish. It's more difficult to go "cold turkey" on Monday.
If you have any medical conditions, please discuss this fasting plan with your Doctor for clearance. There are more than 1 variations to fasting. Please refer to the booklet we provided for you, "21 Days of Miracles" for suggestions.
The Daniel's Fast, for the most part, follows a "vegan" plan. This is eliminating all meat, caffeine, fats, all dairy, butter, cheeses, fried foods, "white" starches including white rice, pasta, potatoes and bread (white flour). This is the perfect occasion to getting used to reading food/nutrition labels. WATCH FOR HIDDEN SUGAR, & WHEAT FLOUR (which is basic white flour) and chemicals/additives/preservatives.
Allowable foods include brown rice, 100% whole grain products, fresh fruit & vegetables, beans and nuts. UNSWEETENED Almond milk, coconut milk or soy milk are ok.

21 day fast--Daniel's style

2011-02-06T15:18:00.000-08:00

Wow WE MADE IT! A sense of spiritual accomplishment? A feeling of closeness to the Lord? A greater desire for the Lord-more hunger & thirsting after the Lord? Absolutely--BUT, WANNA GO DEEPER?
No matter how deep you are now, go ahead go for it...wade in a little deeper. Don't worry about whats gonna get wet; this fast has proven you can trust the Lord for your daily sustenance. Don't stop at the point where you can't keep your feet underneath you. Get swept away. What are your hesitations living a more Spirit-led life of faith? What illusions of control are you clinging to? Go in all the way. Pray today that this fast will be just the beginning of a deeper relationship with God. Pray that He will continue to draw you to dive in and let him take complete control of your life.
This has been 21 days well spent with the Lord. It was worth every sacrifice. Sacrifice? What's food compared to the glory of God? Whats food compared to the new found closeness and connection to the Lord? It can continue...not necessarily Daniel Fast, but learning to live in a mode of giving ourselves to God. Some may have decided to continue in a "clean/pure" food choice. All the healthier! Ask what He wants you to eat and when. Listen and He will give you food guidelines personalized and perfect for the body that He fearfully and wonderfully made; which confirms that He will direct you what to eat and what not to eat--if only we will pay attention to what He speaks. Keep an eye on your portions and don't over-eat (even healthy foods)!
It's been a blessing to me to share my devotions with you. Feel free to leave comments. I feel sad to think this has to end cause the fast ended. Who knows maybe I will keep this blog up in some form or another.....
Blessings, Nancy

DEVOTIONAL READING: EZEKIEL 47: 1-12

SWEET 'N' SPICY ROASTED ALMONDS

2 1/2 cups whole almonds
1 tbsp almond or olive oil
1/1/2 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 stp. sea salt
1/4 tsp. dried red pepper flakes, or to taste
preheat oven to 350.

on a baking sheet, combine almonds and oil, tossing to coat almonds evenly. sprinkle
coriander, cumin, salt and red pepper flakes over almonds evenly. Toss again.
Roast in preheated oven, 7 to 10 min. or until fragrant & golden, stirring occasionally.
Cool on baking sheet for about 1 hr. toss again before serving.

Day 20

2011-02-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

Here I am another day behind. Thankfully the Lord is never late!
It's day 20 (Saturday). Are your considering continuing your fast or maybe beginning new habits or regular fasting? Maybe the Lord has "taken away"certain foods or idols in life for an indefinite period of time. A couple of years ago he "delivered" me from caffeine. At that point I wasn't necessarily asking to be delivered but God wanted that part of my that was so "important" to me!
As you read today's (yesterday's) scripture focus you will see the people are wondering if thy should continue the fasting calendar they had kept, and the Lord answers through Zech. Since Moses' time, God instituted a whole calendar of fasts and feasts. Both were designed to draw His people closer to Him. If drawing closer to God is your goal every day, both times of feasting and fasting can be holy to the Lord. Take time to allow God to speak to you about your fasting experience. Ask God to help you reflect on the ways your fast has softened your heart and influenced you to treat others differently.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS: ZECHARIAH 7

Carrot, Apple, & Ginger Soup

1/2 TB extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 cup chopped onions

1 clove garlic, minced

1 TB minced fresh ginger root

6 cups Vegetable Broth or water

2 lbs carrots, peeled & cut into 2" pieces

2 cups chopped apples, peeled

1 bay leaf

1/2 tsp thyme

1 tsp salt

Instructions

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large saucepan or stockpot. Add onion, and cook until translucent. Mix in garlic and ginger, and cook about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add vegetable broth, carrots, apples, bay leaf, thyme, salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20 minutes, or until carrots are tender.

Remove from heat, and allow soup to cool about 5 minutes. Discard bay leaf. Purée the soup in batches in a food processor or blender. When completely smooth, return to stovetop, and cook another 10 minutes. Makes 8 cups.

Recipe Notes

I used Fuji apples, but you could use just about any type of apple, depending upon your personal preference.
If you like this flavor combination and would like to try a new juice recipe, try the Orient Express.

YUMMY SOUP!

Day 19

2011-02-05T00:57:00.000-08:00

Well here it is day 19...how are you feeling? I have fallen slightly behind on posting to this blog. I'm sorry.
Are you tired & weary? Hungry? Are craving the food you left behind or are you rejoicing in this new freedom?
Is your desire to get back to business (or life) as usual? I am trusting that you have gained a closeness and more hunger & thirsting for things of God rather than focusing on what you haven't been able to have over the last 19 days. Hasn't the "fellowship" with our Lord been up close & personal lately? It's amazing how much emphasis we place on food or things of this world, if you will. think about the marveloius joy of spending this last day in His courts. Praise Him for the ways you are growing and seeking him more. Read today's passage aloud as your prayer to God today. Personalize it, sing it loud or just whisper, but Praise Him today. He inhabits our praise & worship.

Passage of focus today--PSALM 84

Fruit Pizza

Crust

1 ½ cups almond flour (meal)
½ cup roughly chopped pitted dates
½ cup chopped pecans
¼ cup unsweetened apple juice

Fruit Sauce
¼ cup Date Honey (not really a 'honey' more like Date Butter)
½ cup sliced strawberries

Topping Ideas
Sliced apples, bananas, blueberries, grapes, kiwifruit, mangoes, oranges, peaches, pineapples, strawberries

Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place almond flour, dates, pecans and apple juice in a food processor. Process until mixture forms a ball. Press dough into 10-inch circle, about ¼-inch thick, on an 11 x 17-inch baking sheet or pizza pan (rub a little olive oil on your hands if dough gets too sticky). With a fork, poke holes all across crust dough. Bake 10 minutes, or until edges are browned and slightly crispy. Remove from oven and let cool completely, about 45 minutes.

Put Date Honey and strawberries in a food processor or blender. Process about 30 seconds or until smooth and creamy. Spread fruit sauce onto cooled crust. Top with your favorite assortment of sliced fruit. Refrigerate 3 hours or until chilled.

Yield: 8 servings (serving size: 1 slice)

Recipe Notes

Substitute oat flour for the almond flour.

Day 18

2011-02-04T01:11:00.000-08:00

The Lord WANTS us to come back to him in a fresh new way...He asks us to fast. He looks at the intention of the heart not what's said or done on the outside. He wants us to turn to Him with a pure heart of worship because of who He is not just for what He has done for us. Sure He has done amazing things for us, but that's not the only reason to LOVE HIM WITH A PURE AND STEADFAST HEART. He provides what we need and we have nothing to fear. But again, he knows the intention of our hearts. That being said, what is He seeing in your heart as a result of this fast? What will he see in your heart in 2 weeks, 2 months or even in 2 years? Love Him with a pure heart of worship and thanksgiving.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS; JOEL 2: 12-32

Fresh Marinated Italian Tomatoes

6 fresh tomatoes diced (peeled optional)
1 tbsp. oregano
2 tbsp. fresh Italian parsley
1/2 c olive oil
1/2 c chopped onion
1/3 c vinegar (balsamic, red wine, or apple cider)
1 pinch dried dill

Put oil, vinegar, onion & seasonings in a jar & shake.
Place tomatoes in a bowl and pour marinade over to cover.
refrigerate at least 3 hours. Serve on lettuce leaves.

The marinade is delicious on chilled, lightly cooked green beans as well as
other vegetables. serves 6-8

Day 17

2011-02-02T09:18:00.000-08:00

Have you ever considered the determination and personal standards that Shadrach, Meshach & Abednegohad to stand for their personal convictions against all odds? Can you imagine the spiritual strength it tookto not obey the new law of the king. Even when EVERYONE else around these 3 men followed the orders--these guys didn't. They stood strong, knowing their God would be with them through the thick (heat, if you will) of the trial.
Don't we sometimes feel like we are standing against everyone one else when we stand for the gospel?
Don't we many times, when we go through a trial, feel like we are the only ones? But was Shadrach, Meshach & Abedngo standing in that hot firey furnance alone, where their clothes fire-retardant? NO WAY-- God himself was in there with them. It was none other than Devine intervention in an impossible situation. The fact remains, these brave men had the courage to stand against the flow. They stood againstthe natural for the supernatural. What are you facing? Have the faith to believe that God is going through this with you and will protect & guide you. He will NEVER leave you or forsake you!

TAKE COURAGE AS YOU READ: DANIEL 3

CURRIED PUMPKIN SOUP

3/4c chopped Spanish onion
2t. olive oil
2 1/2t curry powder
salt & pepper to taste
4 c vegetable broth
1 15oz can pumpkin
2 potatoes, peeled & 1in. cubed
1/4 c chopped cilantro

Sautee onion in olive oil, add seasoning-stir.
Add broth, pumpkin & potatoes, boil. Reduce heat to med. & partially cook
covered for 8-10 min. until potatoes are tender. Remove, stir in cilantro then
wala! Serve.
serves 4
238 cal. 17% (good) fat, 16% protein, 6g fiber

Day 16

2011-02-01T00:34:00.000-08:00

"A Psalm of fearless Trust in God" is the theme of today's reading in Psalm 27.
It talks about seeking one thing. During this time of seeking, it's easy to focus on
seeking things from God instead of just seeking God--to seek His hand and not His face.
Think of the difference between approaching a king to kiss his hand and approaching a
loving father to kiss his face. God is both king & Father. He is capable of meeting your
needs and answering your prayers. but He also loves you more deeply than you can ever know.
When you seek His face, you'll find yourself in a much closer posture to Him.
Pray today that you will seek God's face and get closer to Him than you ever have before.

Trusting God--read PSALM 27

"PANCIT" a favorite of the Philippines

1 16 oz pkg. rice noddles
1 cake of firm tofu diced
1 glove garlic
1brown onion diced
1 cup shreeded cabbage
1 cup julian cut carrots
1 cup sliced celery
olive oil or vegetable oil
2 cups water or vegetable broth

instructions:
1)rinse rice noodles with tap water. drain and set aside
2)saute garlic & onion in olive oil or vegie oil
3)add diced tofu, carrots, celery and cabbage
4)add water or broth
5)season to taste with garlic salt or liquid amino (seasoning/soy sauce substitute)
6)heat until boiling and add athe drained rice noddles.
7)simmer 2 min., reverse noodles and simmer for another two min. and stir to loosen the rice noodles.
8)turn off the heat, sprinkle with olive oil, stir and serve
yummy! A great alternative to Italian pasta!

Day 15

2011-01-31T00:11:00.000-08:00

We are beginning the last final week--week 3 of the fast. Take time to reflect & celebrate what God has begun. Write or verbally share your experiences. Event though you may feel like you're a in a groove now, for many this final week will be harder than others. Ask God to search you and begin to shine a light on all the dark corners of your heart. Ask Him to use this last week to refine you and cleanse you.

SCRIPTURE HIGHLIGHT: PSALM 51

ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH

1 LG. (4LB) BUTTERNUT SQUASH PEELED, SEEDED & 1in DICED

2TBSP OLIVE OIL

1 TBSP CHOPPED THYME

2 TSP KOSHER SALT

1 TSP GROUND BLACK PEPPER

HEAT OVEN TO 400. PLACE THE SQUASH ON THE A RIMMED BAKING SHEET, ADD O.O., THYME, SALT AND PEPPER AND TOSS WITH YOUR HANDS. ROAST UNTIL TENDER, TOSSING ONCE DURING COOKING WITH METAL SPATULA SO THE CUBES BROWN EVENLY, 30-40 MIN. SEASON TO TASTE AND SERVE HOT.

SERVES 4-6

Day 14

2011-01-30T00:08:00.000-08:00

Blessed are those who hunger...can you relate to that during the last 12 days? Your eating, but to many, venture I say, to the greater majority very different than you are used to. When you get that craving for something to eat that is on your "comfort food" list...turn your devotion away from food and towards the Lord instead. Allow him to "feed" you. Mediate on this passage of Matthew 5, commonly known as the Beatitudes or Blessings. Make a point today to count your blessings. Keep a journal with you all day to write down the blessings that God brings to your mind. Pray to thank Him for the blessings, even the ones that come as a result of enduring hardships or trials.

READ MATTHEW 5: 1-14 (THE BEATITUDES)

Recipe by BettyCrocker

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

10 oz. (3 1/2 cups) uncooked whole wheat, rice or corn pasta (linguine preferred)
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 bunch broccoli, chopped (about 8 cups)
3/4 cup water
1 cup vegetable-broth
1 (4 1/4-oz.) can chopped ripe olives, drained
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions

Cook gemelli to desired doneness as directed on package. Drain; cover to keep warm.
Meanwhile, heat oil in nonstick Dutch oven or 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add garlic; cook 1 minute. Add broccoli; cook and stir 3 minutes.
Stir in water, vegetable broth and olives; cover and simmer an additional 3 to 5 minutes or until broccoli is bright green and crisp-tender.
Add cooked pasta to broccoli mixture. Add salt and pepper; toss to combine

Day 13

2011-01-29T00:06:00.000-08:00

You are special, chosen, holy, set apart, a royal priest--YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD! Do you need an anchor right now? Set Christ as your cornerstone/anchor today. Write down the ways He has brought you from darkness into light. Make time today to thank God for beginning a work in you with His Son set as the foundation for Him to build on.

DEVOTION FOR TODAY: I PETER 2

Golden Carrot Soup Daniel Fast Recipe

Used with permission from The Daniel's Fast Cookbook

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
: 1 large onion, chopped fine, about 2 cups
: 3 stalks celery chopped fine insert, about 1 cup
: 1 package 16 oz. bag of fresh sliced carrots, about 4 cups
: 1 quart vegetable broth, 32 oz carton
: 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
: 1 teaspoon dried basil
: 2 teaspoons chopped garlic, jar ok
: 1/2 teaspoon pepper
: 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

In a large pot put olive oil and sauté onion, celery, carrots, garlic and all the seasonings for about 10 minutes. Then add the vegetable broth. Cover and simmer for about 25 min or until carrots are tender. With a hand held blender, cream the soup. If you do not have an hand held blender, spoon into a regular blender. Blend half at a time. Be careful this is hot stuff. Serves 6.

Day 12

2011-01-28T00:02:00.000-08:00

Comfort food...are you beginning to see how much comfort food gives? How much have your thoughts been overtaken with craving certain foods, missing the things you're fasting from, or even how much weight you could lose. Is it often? If it were alcohol or a harmful drug, would you consider yourself addicted if you were this consumed with your desire for them? For many, this fast can begin an awareness of a harmful place food may have in your life. It can reveal an addiction. Pray that the God of compassion and all comfort will become your primary source of comfort. Ask Him to use this experience with suffering to remove anything in your life that has taken the Holy spirit's place as your Comforter.

FOCUS ON THIS PASSAGE--2 CORINTHIANS 1

POLENTA (CORN MEAL)
Italian version:
ingredients: Corn Meal (Polenta) & Water
1 cup Polenta
enough water to cover & let it "rest" in a bowl for 10-15 min (or longer if needed...all day- while you go to work!)
Bring 3 cups water to boil, reduce to simmer ADD polenta/water mixture SLOWLY, stirring constantly. continue to stir until polenta thickens-about 20 min. (good job for someone else to do while you prepare the salad & set the table!)
When thickened to the point of "supporting" the spoon- it's done!
My family Italian tradition is to add (pasta) sauce & kidney beans (protein)
& serve!
Bon Apitete!

another find for corn meal instead of oatmeal....
I tried it and really liked it:
I used 1/2 cup corn meal (you can use more if you want) & enough water to cover PLUS alittle more! Microwave for 2 min.
Stir if too dry add more water & microwave for 30sec. - 1 min.
add fresh berries! (you may want to add SOY milk or apple juice)
Wham! a great breakfast alternative

Day 11

2011-01-27T00:02:00.000-08:00

The passage of James 1 has many convicting challenges--one being for you to match your faith with action.
Don't just contemplate God's Word--do what it says.
Don't be a hearer only but start putting God's word into action.
You are now beginning the second half of this fast. Reflect on whether your fast would be characterized more by listening or doing. Ask God for wisdom about where He wants to lead you during this second half of your fast. What has God spoken to heart about through the first 10 days?

READ JAMES 1

VEGGIE BURGER RICE & BEANS

Cook 1 veggie burger according to package directions: cut into bite-size pieces and set aside. Add 1 Tbsp minced onion, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp chili powder, and 1/4 tsp salt to veggie stock and use it in place of water to cook 1/4 cup brown rice according to pakg directions. Mix cooked rice with 1/4 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained, and 1/4 cup thawed frozen corn. top with chopped veggie burger, 1 tbsp diced avacado and 3 tbsp salsa.
serves 1. Can be made to feed more by adjusting ingredients accordingly.

Day 10

2011-01-26T00:29:00.000-08:00

40 days--Jesus fasted for 40 days! We are fasting for "only" 21!
Nothing-was what Jesus had for 40 days.
Nothing-not even water was all that Moses had for 2-- 40 day fasts back to back.
So in light of those...21 days of fruits & vegies is a "cake walk" (oops, maybe a poor choice of words)!
Jesus & Daniel both, clearly came out stronger than ever after their fasts.
How is your fast strengthening you? Do you feel as though you're floundering? Maybe you're not experiencing the outcomes you expected. Ask God to lead you into the same kind of preparation, power, and purpose that Jesus gained from His time of fasting.

TODAY'S READING: LUKE 4

Pineapple Citrus Muffin are breakfast or a quick snack...guilt-free!

Pineapple Citrus Muffins

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup oat flour (see Recipe Notes)
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
½ cup diced pineapples
¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
¼ cup Date Honey
¼ cup flaxseed meal
2 teaspoons unsweetened coconut flakes
2 teaspoons grated orange zest
½ teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly rub 8 cups of a 12-cup muffin tin with olive oil, and set aside.

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl, and stir well to combine. Scoop out mixture into muffin tin cups, allowing about 1/3 cup for each muffin. Bake 20 minutes, or until muffin tops are lightly browned. Serve warm.

Yield: 8 servings (serving size: 1 muffin)

Recipe Notes

Make your own oat flour by placing old-fashioned rolled oats in a food processor or blender and process until fine (½ cup old-fashioned oats will yield about ½ cup ground oats).
Spread almond butter or Date Honey on top.
Flaxseed meal is a powder made from ground flaxseeds. It can be found in health food stores and some grocery stores. Instead of buying flaxseed meal, you can also grind whole flaxseeds at home by using a coffee or seed grinder.
The zest is the outermost, colorful skin of citrus fruits. Zest is often used to enhance flavor in recipes. The pith, or white membrane underneath the outside peel, has a bitter, unpleasant taste and should be avoided while zesting.
Date Honey

Date Honey

1 cup pitted dates (about 6-8 Medjool or 18-20 Deglet Noor)

1 cup water

½ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Pour dates and water into a small saucepan, making sure dates are completely covered (add additional water if necessary). Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer 45-60 minutes or until dates are very soft and broken down. Remove from heat, and allow to cool slightly for about 15 minutes. Pour mixture into a blender or food processor and puree until completely smooth. Sprinkle in cinnamon and stir well. Store in a sealed container in refrigerator.

Yield: 12 servings (serving size: about 1 tablespoon)

A Few Date Varieties...

Medjool - largest, sweetest date that is soft and tender.
Deglet Noor - semi-dry chewy "bread" date with a nutty flavor; not as sweet as other dates; smaller than the Medjool and good for use in Trail Mix.
Pakistani - semi-dry date that is very similar to the Deglet Noor, but is slightly smaller.

Apples with Date Honey

Apples, sliced

Date Honey (recipe above)

Toppings: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts and unsweetened shredded coconut.

Instructions
Spread Date Honey on one side of each apple slice. Serve as is, or press into chopped pecans or shredded coconut or both.

Recipe Notes

You may also use sliced bananas or pears.

Day 9

2011-01-24T23:15:00.000-08:00

Oh man, just when you think you've sacrificed enough...your choice food...today's devo is asking us to
explore how we can present our body as a living sacrifice to God. Today's passage-Romans 12,
starts with that challenge and offers many ways to express it. In what ways has your fast been helping
you experience true worship in new ways? Pray today and ask God to continue to reveal His will for
you during this time of sacrifice and worship.
Are you noticing the extremes in your usual way of eating compared to how you've eating now? I hope
that you are reaping blessings and answers to your fast as we have completed the first week.
I would really like some blogging happening here....(hint, hint) :-) thanks for comments!

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE READING: ROMANS 12

ITALIAN STEAMED ARTICHOKES

These interesting vegetables are easy to prepare but take a long time to eat

and it's a hard job "getting" to the food portion! But have fun with this...

4 artichokes
1 1/2 inches water in bottom of Dutch oven
1/2 tsp. garlic & onion powder
2 tbsp. lemon juice

2 tbsp. Balsamic vinegar
1/2 tsp. salt

3 tbsp. olive oil

2 tbsp. Italian herb seasoning

Trim off top of artichokes and cut off stem and clean. Place artichokes in pan. Add water to 1 1/2 inches from bottom of large Dutch oven. Mix remaining ingredients together and pour over artichokes. Bring to a boil. Lower heat and cover. Steam for 45 minutes to one hour or until leaves pull out easily. Be sure to baste the artichokes every 10 to 15 minutes. Serve warm.

Day 8

2011-01-24T00:03:00.000-08:00

As we enter week two Psalm 100 talks to us about entering God's presence with thankfulness, gladness, joy & praise in your heart. If you've become focused on the physical hardships you're faced with or the burdens you're bringing to God in prayer, then spend today just being joyful in the Lord. Write down some things that bring you joy today. sing a song of praise to Him. Pray that god will stir an urgency to press in and see what God has for you beyond His gates.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS: PSALM 100

WHITE BEANS & SAUTEED VEGETABLES

This is a very fast and flavorful dish. Add a salad and some sliced fruit and you have a very nice Daniel Fast meal!
2 cans white beans, drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup celery, finely diced
½ cup carrot, finely diced
¼ cup virgin olive oil (to drizzle after beans are dished up)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:

Drain the white beans and set aside
Heat olive oil and then add all the prepared vegetables to the pan and sauté for until just done.
Add beans and heat thoroughly
Dish up on serving plates, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Salt and pepper to taste.

Yield: 4 servings
Tip: It is best to cook with regular old pure olive oil – save the more costly extra virgin oil for salads, drizzling, and dipping. When cooked, extra virgin oil actually turns bitter and the great flavors are cooked away! So use the less expensive pure olive oil for sautéing and frying.

Day 7

2011-01-22T23:31:00.000-08:00

Broken & poured out...you see these words in the story of the woman & the last supper. Since bread & juice (communion) are not options while on the fast for you to remember Jesus during these 21 days, do what the woman did. Do what Jesus did. Live your life broken and poured out in remembrance of what He has done for you. How can your life be a living memorial to Christ? Talk to God about things in your life that need to be broken and poured out like the vase of perfume.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS: MARK 14: 1-26

EASY HI-PROTEIN BREAKFAST STIR-FRY

Sometimes it can be hard coming up with good breakfasts on the Daniel Fast, especially if you are used to eggs. I made what I thought was a delicious breakfast and it was quick.
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, sliced
1/2 green pepper, chopped
1 cup firm tofu, diced in bite-sized pieces
garlic salt to taste
Italian herbs to taste
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add oil and heat for a couple minutes. Add the onions and green peppers and stir fry for 2-3 minutes. Add tofu, garlic salt and Italian herbs. Continue to cook until vegetables are soft.
Makes two servings.
This was so tasty. The tofu is about the same consistency as egg whites and it soaks up the flavors of whatever it’s being cooked with. Very easy, tastes great, and lot of protein.

Good variation: omit tofu. Serve stir-fry peppers in corn tortillas.

* Daniel Fast Snacks
To have a successful Daniel Fast, it’s a good idea to have several snack foods available for those times when you “need a little something.” I suggest you still take snacks in “servings,” so you don’t over eat on these sometimes high-calorie foods.

Rice cakes, just plain old crunchy patties
Rice cakes with peanut butter and raisins
Almonds
Dried fruit including apricots
Apples dipped in nut butter
Sliced fruit
Veggies
Popped popcorn
Trail mix with nuts, raisins, sunflower seeds, coconut pieces and dried fruit
Fruit kabobs
Frozen fruit including grapes, blueberries, strawberries and bananas
Whole wheat crackers with nut butter
Hummus with flat bread
Tortilla chips that have no added preservatives only ingredients are
corn, salt and canola or vegetable oil

READ LABELS not nutritional info as much as ingredient list. The
only items listed should be WHOLE WHEAT OR WHOLE GRAIN
and with as little as possible...i.e.: the list should be pure/whole foods
with no sugar(s)/sweetners, additives or preservatives and the oil
needs to be olive, or a vegetable not an animal (by)product.
If you cant pronounce a listed ingredient; likely not a natural substance.

Day 6

2011-01-22T00:48:00.000-08:00

This fast is about growing your relationship with god. And He's not as concerned about what is in your stomach as He is is about what is in your heart. God doesn't need us to fast; we need to fast for Him.
Daniel's decision not to eat the king's food was an outward symbol of an inward commitment he had made to God. Let your choices over the remaining 15 days reflect the hunger you have for God's presence in your life.
Like when we are hungry for food -- we want to eat, eat now and eat until full. Fasting is the time in which, like physical hunger, we grow hungry for God, we need God, now and can't get enough of His spirit in us! Oh, that we would hunger and thirst after God in that way always...
Since there is no definitive list of foods for the Daniel Fast, it is truly the spirit of Daniel's decision that we are imitating over the next 21 days. If there is something that is not specifically listed that you think still qualifies, then feel free to adjust accordingly. There are links available on the church website with food lists available. The details of the fast are between you and God. Use this time to focus on Him.
This is a "partial fast" if you have eaten something by accident, do not feel condemned, or you will not benefit from this fast. This is intended to be a time of free

Scripture focus for today: ISAIAH 58

Recipe for today:

Stir Fry Brown Rice w/Vegetables

Ingredients

1 box of instant brown rice (or bag brown rice) or regular brown rice
Vegetables to stir fry (either fresh or frozen)
Canola Oil
Olive Oil
*Soy Sauce (Many avoid soy sauce because it is fermented and may contain MSG. Substitute salt to taste. A natural soy sauce alternative to use is "Bragg Liquid Aminos" a all purpose seasoning from soy protein.
Peanuts

Cook your rice according to package (I season my rice as well when I cook).
Heat Wok or fry pan on Med. High heat add 1/4 cup of Canola Oil (more or less) Give a minute for oil to get hot.
Place raw onions in now, if you are adding to recipe, also garlic for taste. Pour the cooked rice into Wok and stir for 4 min. add Soy Sauce* or salt to taste.
Pour rice back into container it was cooked in and set aside.
Now add 1/4 cup Olive Oil to hot Wok again. Then add the vegetables and lots of whatever seasonings you like. Stir until done add peanuts right before serving.
This recipe is very good reheated for lunch the next day.
ENJOY but more importantly: BLESSINGS!

Day 5

2011-01-21T00:28:00.000-08:00

Fasting is know as a "secret act of devotion" to God. How do we deal with that as a declared "church fast"?
Well, obviously we know the entire congregation has been "invited" into this (annual) fast. We will gain support as as community of believers are venturing into this together. Use this opportunity to encourage others you know who are fasting also. Many fasts in the Bible were corporate fasts called by authority figures for a whole group to participate in together. Reflect on the heart of what Jesus is saying in this passage. What has been the motive behind any conversations you've had about fasting? Is it to encourage others or receive support? Is there some secret wish to be seen as holy or spiritual? Only two know the answer to these questions--you & God! Pray today asking God to uncover your motives for fasting and ask for ways you can seek the encouragement you need without clouding your heart with pride.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS: Matthew 6: 5-18

Tortillas as "Daniel Approved" if you READ THE LABEL. Look for whole wheat and as little as possible of "extra" ingredients; i.e.: no lard. If you are considering purchasing spinach or tomatoe tortilla READ THE PACKAGE LABEL making sure that white flour or wheat flour is listed as an ingredient. THERE IS A HUGE DIFFERENCE IN WHEAT FLOUR (which simply put is white (processed/refined) flour made from wheat rather than corn, rice...etc. and WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR is exactly that-flour made from the whole wheat. Corn Tortillas are made with corn and are perfectly acceptable.
When in doubt--make your own using the recipe below!

Whole Grain Tortillas

2 1/2 cups whole grain flour (brown rice, spelt, whole wheat, etc.)
2 TB flaxseed meal, optional
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm water

Instructions
Mix flour, flaxseed meal, salt, and water in a food processor until dough forms a ball. Turn dough onto a floured work surface, and knead for 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Let dough rest at least 30 minutes.

Divide dough into 8 equal pieces, and roll each piece into an 8-inch circle to ¼” thickness. Place in a skillet over low heat. Cook tortilla for 1 minute. Flip, and cook 2-3 minutes on second side or until flatbread bubbles up. Repeat for remaining tortillas. Makes 8 tortillas.

Recipe Notes

When using spelt, add another ½ cup flour.
Spread tortilla with Hummus or organic salsa, and stuff with beans, rice, and/or vegetables.

Day 4

2011-01-20T00:01:00.000-08:00

The scripture reading for today is from Psalm 119 which is the longest psalm in the Bible. This passage is mostly about a passion for God's Word. These 21 days you have devoted to the Lord will be rich and memorable by combining your Bible reading with fasting and prayer. Maybe you have never read the Bible on a consistent daily basis, or possibly you have never read the Bible all the way through from cover to cover what better time to start than now, while your fasting and spending quality time with the Lord!

How do you describe your passion for God's Word at this moment? Pray today that God will increase the fire and desire in your heart/spirit for Him during this intense devoted time.

Fasting is about "giving up" and giving in more. We give up food but be sure to focus on spending MORE TIME WITH THE LORD by reading your Bible more and spending time in prayer--and time to just listen to what the Lord is speaking into your spirit. If you only give up (certain) foods and don't spend more time in

direct devotion with the Lord you are no more than "dieting." Be sure to focus "hungry" times in prayer/reading/listening to the Lord. He desires us to have a deeper passion for His word. He speaks to us through HIS ANOINTED WORD!

Scripture reading for today: PSALM 119

Your comments welcome!

Taco Soup

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 cup diced onion
4 cups Vegetable Broth or water
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15-oz) can black beans, rinsed & drained
1 (15-oz) can pinto beans, rinsed, drained, & mashed
1 (15-oz) can corn, drained
½ cup dry polenta
1 tablespoon Taco Seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions
Heat olive oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Cook onions until soft and translucent. Add broth, tomatoes, black beans, mashed pinto beans, corn, polenta, Taco Seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat to boiling. Reduce heat, and cook 30 minutes. Makes 8 cups.

Recipe Notes

Substitute 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice for polenta.
Place corn in a food processor and pulse a few times for a cream-style texture.
Use kidney beans instead of black or pinto beans.

Day 3

2011-01-18T23:50:00.000-08:00

We are doing this "vegan" thing for 3 weeks-21 days but the young men in DANIEL 1 did nothing but vegetables & water for the duration of their training in Babylon! They choose to do this not from fear of getting caught, but from their devotion to God's commands already formed in them before being taken from their homeland. During this fast, you will have many opportunities to deviate (cheat) from your commitment--especially if you're fasting alone or if no one will find out. Pray that God will give you the RESOLVE & COURAGE to stick to the standards you've set and honor Him no matter what.

Today's reading: DANIEL 1

Fruit & Nut Salad

4 cups torn romaine lettuce, packed
3 kiwifruit, peeled and cut into half moons
1 cup blackberries
1 cup raspberries
½ cup roughly chopped pecan halves
1 recipe Orange-Poppy Seed Salad Dressing

Instructions
Place lettuce in a large bowl, and top with kiwifruit, blackberries, raspberries, and pecans. Toss lightly, and serve with Orange-Poppy Seed Salad Dressing.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: about 1 ½ cups)

Recipe Notes

This salad is extremely versatile. Experiment with a variety of fruit and nut combination.
Use almonds or walnuts instead of pecans.
Substitute blackberries and raspberries with blueberries and strawberries.

Orange-Poppy Seed Salad Dressing

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (fresh)
1 tablespoon diced red onion
1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds
1/4 teaspoon orange zest (from squeezed orange)
1/8 teaspoon dry mustard
1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a covered glass jar, and shake well. Refrigerate until ready to use.

DAY 2 of 21 day fast

2011-01-18T16:19:00.000-08:00

Day 2
Fasting is all about sacrifice. It's "easy" to give up or sacrifice coffee for the fast if you only
drink it occasionally! A real sacrifice is giving up coffee if you are totally addicted to your coffee or
getting your daily Starbucks! Fasting/sacrificing is as in the Bible building an altar and laying your sacrifice on it that honors God. It will cost your convenience, your comfort, and it will also take some serious willpower & commitment. What will your sacrifice be during this fast? Make sure it's a sacrifice that will cost you something. Make yourcommitment in writing and share it with a friend who willhold you accountable to your comitment. Pray for God toshow you what He wants you tosacrifice. The word "fast" according to biblical
terms refers to food. The Daniel's fast is to fast food. A sacrifice of another significant thing in our live is what the Lord is wanting us to give up for him.

Today's Scripture reading: I Chronicles 21: 18-27

Brown Rice Stir-fry with Orange Sauce

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

2 cups chopped broccoli (stems and florets) or ½ 16-ounce bag cut broccoli, cooked

1 cup chopped carrots

½ cup chopped onion

¼ cup Bragg's Liquid Aminos or soy sauce

¼ cup unsweetened orange juice

1 clove garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger root or ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

3 cups cooked brown rice

¼ cup toasted chopped walnuts

2 tablespoons chopped green onion

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and add broccoli, carrots, and onions. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Increase heat to medium high. Add Bragg’s Liquid Aminos, orange juice, garlic, ginger root, brown rice, walnuts, and green onions. Cook another 5 minutes or until heated through, and serve.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: about 1 ¼ cups

nancyforvvag

Daniel's Fast 2012 completion

DAY 20: Jan. 28, 2012: DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

Romans 12:12 12 When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.

DAY 18, Jan. 27, 2012: DEVO & RECIPE of the day:

Smokey Stuffed Peppers

DAY 16, Jan 25, 2012; DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

Mark 12.30

DAY 15, Jan. 24, 2012 DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY:

DAY 14: Jan. 23, 2012 Devo & recipe of the day

26 Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

DAY 11, Jan 20, 2012: DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY:

DAY 10 JAN. 18, 2012: DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY:

1 Timothy 1:12

DAY 9: JAN. 17, 2012 DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

Philippians1.6 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Polenta ‘Pizza’ With Pancetta and Spinach

DAY 8: DEVO & RECIPE OF THE DAY

PROTEIN OPTIONS:

DAY 7: Jan. 15, 2012 Devo & Recipe of the day

Directions

Micah 6:8 8. … “And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

DAY 5, Jan. 13, 2012 Devo & Recipe of the Day

Psalm 103: 2

Day 4, Jan. 12, 2012 Daily Devo & Recipe

DAY 3, JAN. 11, 2012 Devotional & Recipe of the day:

Lamentations 3:22-24

Vegetarian Black Beans and Rice

Serves 4 . Prep: 15min Cook: 40min Total: 55min

Directions

DAY 2: JAN. 10, 2012 Daniel's Fast Day 2

Daniel Fast 2012 DAY 1 Monday, Jan. 9

Daniel Fast 2012

Daniel Fast 2012

21 day fast--Daniel's style

Day 20

Day 19

Day 18

Day 17

Day 16

Day 15

Day 14

Ingredients

Directions

Day 13

Golden Carrot Soup Daniel Fast Recipe

Used with permission from The Daniel's Fast Cookbook

Ingredients

Instructions

Day 12

Day 11

Day 10

Day 9

Day 8

Day 7

Day 6

Stir Fry Brown Rice w/Vegetables

Ingredients

Day 5

Day 4

Day 3

DAY 2 of 21 day fast

Romans 12:12¹² When you hope, be joyful. When you suffer, be patient. When you pray, be faithful.

²⁶ Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,^[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

Philippians1.6 ⁶ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Micah 6:8
⁸. … “And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”