GUIDELINES FOR FASTING

1. The emphasis on fasting is not primarily to give up things, but to focus ourselves fully on God.

2. Fasting from food may take on the following patterns:
   
   • fast one meal
   • fast one meal every day
   • fast red meat / all meat
   • eat vegetables only
   • fast all meals on one day from dawn to dusk
   • fast all food all week
   • other

3. Do not draw attention to your fast.

4. Take extra time to be alone with the Lord. Make sure that you spend at least the time you would have spent in meal preparation and eating in waiting on the Lord and prayer.

5. If you are on medication, refrain from fasting.

6. If you fast from food, always ensure that you drink water at least at every meal time and as frequently as you are thirsty. In addition you may want to drink fruit juices. Never refrain from drinking fluids for longer than 3 days. Stay away from tea and coffee.

7. Minor unpleasant feelings (dizziness, slight stomach / hunger pains, mild headaches) will probably affect you in the early days of your fast and then disappear. If they become severe then break the fast or contact a doctor.

8. Break your fast gradually by beginning to eat with a light meal.