21 days ago a mentor friend of mine challenged me to do a 21 day Daniel Fast. Daniel is this dude in the Bible who had a strict Hebrew diet that honored God. I got the details and went for it! Looking back, I’ve discovered 3 great areas of benefit: spiritual, physical, and relational.
There have been huge changes for me spiritually…stuff I know I’ve needed to do but have procrastinated and rationalized…I’m too busy to deal with that right now. Another change I’ve noticed is how God is multiplying my time and energy. I’ve never had more things to accomplish in ministry with both campuses, and yet I’m accomplishing more in less time. I’m experiencing better focus and clarity with God.
By the way I have to say I can’t remember the last time I felt this good! My goal was not to lose X number of pounds. I put that evil scale away and redirected my hunger towards God. God is helping me as I surrender everyday and invite Him into the kitchen. Now my clothes are getting looser and I’m sleeping better as well.
Another benefit has been relational. I feel like I’m more in tune with my bride and my kids! I took my 12 year old daughter on a date last night and we laughed a lot! Remember those super bounce balls that would just take off on the second bounce? It’s almost impossible to judge them and catch them? Well we scored one at the Mall and set some records in the mall for the longest throws and catches…we also had plenty that got away…as well as some interesting looks from strangers. We had a blast! I sort of felt like Tom Hanks in that movie BIG.
My 14 year old son and I have been working out together and he is doing great! We’re having some cool man to man talks we have never had before. I’m so proud of him! Tonight is date night with my bride and I can’t wait! It’s my favorite part of the week! She is looking foxier all the time! Did I just say foxy?
At any rate there have been a lot of obstacles and temptations but with God’s help I’ve been disciplined to do it! I just finished reading that Jesus kicked his entire ministry off with a 40 day fast…after that process he had the octane to change the world in 36 months. Northway just started its 4th year and Jesus was already finished a year ago…AMAZING! Well, I was going to celebrate with a crazy meal of all the stuff I haven’t had but instead…I’m committing to doing this for another 21! I’ll keep you up to date with the ups and downs!
Buddy. I am so proud of you. You consistently lead by example. Thank you for that!
Hey JDE! Thanks for the encouragement!