Instructed by God, our Apostle has GILEAD to fast twice a month. The first full week of every month and the last full week of every month. The purpose of the fast is to grow closer in a intimate relationship with God by hearing from Him and letting Him guide us into all Truth (John 16:13-14). God provides direction for the ministry, and for the people in the ministry (when we seek Him during the fast), and reveals things about the individual (making the individual free) through fasting (Deuteronomy 8:3, Psalm 35:13, I Peter 1:15-16). Fasting saves our very lives from destruction and allows us to experience grace (1 Kings 21:29). Fasting can also turn the judgement of God from us (Jonah 3:10). 

 

Fasting helps us to get rid of demonic influence in our lives; it brakes the chains that bind us (of things we struggle with that we cannot stop in our own strength) and allows us to see our faults (Matthew 19:21, Mark 9:29). Fasting teaches us how to submit our appetite, and get rid of pride (from our lives) and gluttony, both naturally and spiritually (Psalms 109:24). Fasting also teaches us how to endure afflictions and hard times (Psalm 69:10). Fasting also sets us back on the right path when we go astray (Psalm 69:10). Fasting also causes a person to afflict their flesh and make him/her more fit for the master's use (2 Timothy 2:21).

 

God provides sanctification, and purification of the body, performs miracles, and withholds judgement because of fasting (Jonah 3:5-10, Isaiah 58:6, 8). Ultimately, fasting allows God's glory to be revealed (Matthew 19:21, Matthew 6:16-18)! So, as we go through the fast it is important to seek God, listen to what He is telling us, and act upon what He has said (Luke 11:28).

 

The following foods we are to ABSTAIN from:

1. Starch (Rice, Potatoes, etc)

2. Meats that are: Beef, Pork, Seafood, (luncheon)

3. Breads (Wheat products)

4. Sweets (Candy, sugar, sodas, etc)

5. Dairy Products (Milk, cheese, creams, etc)

6. Fried Foods (fried chicken, fried fish, fried eggs, etc)

7. Junk Food

 

The following foods WE MAY EAT:

1. Vegetables

2. Meats: Chicken, Turkey, Fish, Lamb (these MUST only be baked or broiled)

3. Juices (100% fruit juices)

4. Eggs (that have been boiled)

5. Oatmeal

6. Fruits

7. Nuts

8. Dry Cereal

9. Salads