40 day spiritual journey

Immerse Yourself

In a 40-day, spiritual journey, january 15 to february 23 | every year since 2008.

What nine months does for the embryo Forty early mornings Will do for your growing awareness - Jelaluddin Rumi

40 Days of Practice

Creating worldwide community, deepen your daily spiritual practice, all are welcome.

Many people look forward to the annual Feast for the Soul - an annual 40-day spiritual practice journey for self-discovery via mindfulness, meditation, and creating community. You can think of it as a personal retreat whereby you commit and immerse yourself in 40 days of spiritual practice from January 15 through February 23. Whether you meditate, dance, paint, practice yoga, or observe another spiritual practice, the Feast is a beautiful way to begin the new year with a more mindful and compassionate way of living. You are invited to join us in whatever way you can.

The Feast provides free resources, support, and teachings year round that you can access anytime, including the master meditation index which provides you with meditations, inspiration, and guidance from an array of teachers from many spiritual traditions around the globe. You are invited to participate in the Feast no matter where you are, what your spiritual practice is, or how experienced you feel.

When you do, you'll join the tens of thousands of people who join the Feast for 40 days, and be part of a community committed to creating more peace on this planet. Who you are and how you live creates a ripple effect. A smile, a compassionate act, a kind word, and a moment of connecting and truly being present with someone is often born from spiritual practice. You and your peacefulness are essential to creating more peace in the world. Now that's a good reason to join the Feast!

Why participate?

Create community, immerse yourself in the field of love, and transform your life.

The Feast for the Soul is an annual program of 40 days of live, virtual meditative practices that you can experience from the comfort of your own home, free of charge. Held every January 15th, the Feast provides daily, live meditations from a wide variety of teachers from all spiritual paths. Everyone is welcome to join the Feast in January, and join the more than 20,000 people worldwide who participate each year. It's important to note that though the Feast is officially held each January 15th with an international opening ceremony, you can create your own Feast anytime, anywhere using the myriad of guided practices provided on this website free of charge.

The Mission and Vision

Establishing a daily spiritual practice..

The Feast for the Soul exists to create and support a global community of individuals committed to sustaining a personal daily spiritual practice. People around the world are invited to observe the Feast, a 40-day spiritual practice period from January 15 to February 23, during which a faculty of spiritual guides and teachers from a variety of religious traditions and lineages offer guided meditations and discourses, and lend encouragement to Feast participants. It makes guided meditations and discourses available online free of charge year-round. The Feast is a cost-free intensive that everyone—regardless of spiritual tradition, path, or practice—is encouraged to observe in order to create more personal peace and world peace.

The Feast embraces all peaceful spiritual traditions and organizations, regardless of the imagined boundaries of creed, culture, and philosophical beliefs. It is observed annually by individuals committed to personal daily spiritual practice, with the aim of creating more peace on this planet. We each hold a vision of a world at peace and recognize that to have peace in the world, it is first essential to have peace in the heart.

Deepen your spiritual practice and momentum with the Feast.

Each year, an esteemed faculty of spiritual guides and teachers from a variety of traditions volunteer to support you in deepening your daily spiritual practice.

“ TK Former Attendee “When you take meditative practice on for yourself, it bleeds over onto your friends and family and affects them, too. It's a kind of quiet leadership.”

“ Sarah McLean Director, Winter Feast for the Soul “When the 40-days were complete, not only are those who observe it transformed personally, the world around them was also transformed by their practice.”

“ Patricia DiFazio 2010 Attendee “I meditated today, the first day of the Winter Feast for the Soul...This energy moves faster than ships and planes.”

“ Dr. R. Bentel California, Former Attendee “I will certainly participate! Thank you for putting this out in the ethers to grow and nourish us all.”

Begin your 40-day journey.

Sign up for Feast for the Soul. It's free to participate.

Copyright © 2024 Feast for the Soul, All Rights Reserved. Site customized by Live Out Loud, Inc. https://liveoutloudpr.com

• Feast for the Soul 2024
• Get Started
• Create an Opening Ceremony
• Local Area Programs & Support
• Become an Organizer
• Why Meditate?
• Guidance for Your Practice
• 2024 Feast Faculty
• Master Faculty Index A-Z
• Finding Meditations from Previous Feasts
• Meet the Faculty
• Meet the Board
• Promotional Materials

40 Day Fasting and Prayer Guide: Be Still and Know God More

Will you come with me on a journey, a 40 day fasting and p rayer, a journey to be still and know God more?  This article will serve as the 40 day fast guide to help you get started.

Do you struggle to be still in the midst of this chaotic life?  I mean, life is busy, racing past a mile a minute and we have to keep up or get left behind.  But God says Be Still and know that I am God.  How do we learn to be still?

S tay to the end to see a video where I go more in-depth about fasting and prayer!

Why Join a 40 Day Fasting and Prayer Challenge?

Today is a great day to Know God more.  We are on the eve of Lent at the time of this writing.

Do you fast during Lent?  Lent, the 40 day fast leading up to Easter, is a wonderful time to focus your heart on the resurrection of Christ. 

Having discovered How to Fast and Pray in a Way that Pleases God  I was inspired to participate in a group fast years ago and quickly became a fan.

Fasting alone is amazing, but fasting corporately is something you can’t describe – only experience.

Before you ask,  “Do you have to be Catholic to fast during Lent?”, I am a protestant. I believe that if you follow Jesus, adhere to the Bible, and walk as a disciple of Christ, your denomination does not matter.

“Then the disciples of John *came to Him, asking, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “The attendants of the bridegroom cannot mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them, can they? But the days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.” ( Matthew 9:14-15 NASB)

Jesus said we would fast.  Anyone following Jesus can fast regardless of the time of year.

So whether it is nearing Easter or another time of the year altogether I would challenge you to try a time of fasting (a 40 day fasting and prayer journey) and see what God can do.

Is It Possible to Fast 40 Days?

As I write this I know how foreign the practice of fasting is in general, so I know you have questions.

• What is the significance of a 40 day fast?
• Can you not eat for 40 days?
• Did Joshua fast 40 days?
• What are 40 days fasting prayer points?
• How to break a fast with prayer?

What is the significance of a 40-day fast?

• Moses, Joshua, Elijah, and Jesus are among those noted in the Bible who practiced a 40 day fast.  

While fasting in Biblical times centered around giving up food, either all food or some foods, for a time, not all fasting did.

Caution: Fasting from all food and drink is risky for your health.  Consult your doctor before beginning to make a wise plan based on your specific needs.

It may be possible for you to fast from certain foods for the next 40 days.  You may also choose to fast each Friday from red meat, sweets, or social media. 

Whatever you choose to give up for the next 40 day fast I would love to support you!

40-Day Fasting and Prayer in the Bible

It is possible to fast and pray for 40 days. The Bible lists 3 very extreme complete fasts. Just search, “Moses 40 day fast,” or, “Jesus 40 day fast,” to see them.

Elijah also fasted for 40 days.

There is a spiritual significance to seeking the Lord for 40 says.

Why did Jesus do a 40 day fast? He was about to start His ministry.

Moses and Elijah were seeking direction and a breakthrough.

In this season:

• I am asking the Holy Spirit to move in my own life in a powerful way.  
• I long for a pure heart and to know Christ Jesus more.  
• There is an area where I want answers.
• I want to see the work of God in my family toward a spiritual need that feels hopeless.

If you need the Lord to move in a powerful way, consider joining us over the next 40 days to fast and pray!

What Can You Eat On the 40-Day Fast with Prayer?

Okay, so let me clear, this time in this season I am not fasting from food. My health makes that a challenge and we’ve looked at length at alternative ways to do a 40 day fast and prayer journey. Let me link to those below:

• What happens to the body during a 40 day fast? Learn about that here.
• What Are The Spiritual Benefits of Fasting and Prayer?
• If you are asking, “How much weight can you lose in 40 days fasting and praying?” This is for you… and me…
• This how to guide really hits the before and after and all the in-between details.

So, what should I eat during 40 days fasting? That depends on what type of fasting you are doing.

There are many types of fasting in the Bible (spiritual fasting) . Read this to help you choose what’s best for you!

Related Post:   27 Fasting and Prayer Scriptures (What does the Bible Say About 40 Days Fasting? 

A 40 Day Fast Guide: How To Do A 40 Day Fast Christian Style

When God called me to take my first 40 day fast I wish I had a guide – how to do a 40 day fast Christian style.  Through a lot of trial and error I found my way, but whew was it tough.

Since then, it has been a joy to mentor hundreds of believers in their journey to spiritual breakthrough!

Want to go deeper?  Check out A Beginners Guide to Fast and Pray: Taking Spiritual Warfare to the Next Level.   This is a short read (about 1 hour) that will help answer all your questions.

Types of Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough

There are many types of fasting for spiritual breakthrough and spiritual renewal.  Many. 

• The Daniel Fast is a wonderful example of being creative about what you give up to seek Heavenly Father for satisfaction!

Daniel fasted from certain food and other things. That’s good news to help my religious guilt as I struggle with health issues.

There are so many types of fasting.  One thing to consider is that a 40 day fast may be too long.  You may consider starting with twenty-one days of fasting.  If that’s too long, just start with 3 day fasts.  

A partial fast (for part of the day or from just one thing) may be better for a beginner than a long fast . The best thing is to be honest about where you are and just try some things!

Any number of days of prayer is a good thing!  The mercies of God are new every time we walk toward Him!

The discipline of fasting can take a long time to develop.  Be patient with yourself and just keep trying until you can last longer.  

What does the Bible say about 40 days fasting?

I am writing this to serve as a 40 day fast guide.  40 days fasting and prayer to seek the Lord is significant!

That’s why this guide will include Bible Verses to focus your time of fasting and fasting prayer points each day!

Before you start the 40 day fasting and prayer guide (Bible reading plan) and devotional series though, be sure to pick what you will give up as you seek the Lord.

Remember that the Early church practiced this as one of the Spiritual disciplines.  Jesus Christ Himself, in the New Testament, spoke to the necessity of prayer and fasting.  It was their common practice and we are in a great place when we imitate early Christian life.

You can do this!

Related: How To Choose The Suitable Type of Fasting

What Will You Fast From?

Can I challenge you to fast a portion of time?

I know, I know… traditionally fasting is all about food. In fact, most people who find this article searched, “How do I prepare my body for a 40 day fast?”

BUT, we don’t spend much time on food (most of us) anymore. We spend time on entertainment though.

So what if we just evaluate what gets most of our time? Then give a portion of that time each day back to the Lord!

In this season, God is teaching me how to be still.  Learning how to be still and know God begins with time.

40 Day Fasting and Prayer: Fasting Our Time

Time is a commodity that shows your heart. Time is a fast that helps us begin fasting like Jesus.  Jesus made time with God a high priority!

• How do you spend your time every day?
• Does God get any of your time?
• Is It the first of your time?
• Does God get the best of your time?

My best time is not my first time.  I am not a morning person.  Are you?  Honestly, if someone dares to speak to me within my first hour awake they will regret it.

But God asks for my first fruits… the first of my time, talents, and resources.

Related: Adding Fasting and Prayer for Marriage Blessings

40 Day Spiritual Fast Testimonies

We began this challenge of a 40 day fasting and prayer journey about 4 years ago. IN that time I have heard from hundreds of you who have joined the fast.

You loved the 40 days fasting and prayer points throughout the devotionals.

You came to the Lord broken and hurting and walked away feeling peace and healing. There were hard choices to make and you left with clarity. The testimonies have been inspirational.

I’ll share one testimony that stood out over the years. She will remain anonymous.

“I found your article by searching, “How to fast for 40 days.” I got way more than I expected. My husband is addicted and can be abusive. I wanted out but I wanted God more. There is peace now as I wait for God to answer. Thanks for sharing this.”

Her story stands out because it’s like mine. God met me where I was on this journey and filled me with His peace.

Your story will be blessed as well! I just know it!

40 Day Fast Bible Verses

When you sign up for the challenge you will get the 40 day fasting and prayer PDF. There are 40 days of verses to guide our journey.

Now, the Bible talks a LOT about fasting. In fact, if you need Bible verses about prayer and fasting – check these out – 27 Fasting and Prayer Scriptures for Spiritual Breakthrough .

But, I don’t fast and read about fasting… maybe that’s weird… but if I am fasting I know about fasting. Anyway, the verses you have in this challenge focus on being still and knowing God. That’s what He is teaching me about… so that’s where I am focused.

But that’s the point… If you are struggling with anxiety – use a guide about that (Here is one***)

If you need help with marriage – check this out.

Maybe you need help with Love in marriage – this is a good guide.

Forgiveness? Check this out.

Fixing your thought life? Here is another.

The point is to spend 40 days fasting and prayer in the Bible. Just be in the Word with the time you are sacrificing to the Lord!

Seek First The Kingdom of God

Do You give God the first bits of your time every day?

God is relationship-focused.  Relationships only thrive if they are given our best.  Our best attitude, our best time, our best intentions.

Do you give God the best of your time every day?

What is your best time?  My best time is about noon.  I’m awake, all the kids are fed, busy and cooperating, most of the housework is done and I can really get into whatever I am doing.

I don’t give that time to God, I work.  If I am behind on chores I get caught up.  If I have time I write or do other business-related things.  When all of that is done I read a book, deep clean some area in the house, plan things…

God is far from my thoughts.  I am far from being still.  God does not get my best time any day – other than Sunday.

Related: The Top 10 Most Powerful Books on Prayer and Fasting

What Fasting Does Spiritually

Do you struggle with Anxiety?  For me, it comes in waves, goes away for seasons then sneaks back in to wreck my world.

Unsuspecting.  Unyielding.  Undermining my best-laid plans.

Once I was diagnosed with an auto-immune disease, fatigue began to plague my everyday life.  Anxiety follows it.

But, what happens if you fast for 40 days and focus on verse about Anxiety?

Fasting Fights Anxiety

Over the past few years, God has been narrowing my world, taking away one thing after another.

“Trust Me,” He whispers.

“Lean on My understanding,” He reminds.

“Cast your cares on Me,” He repeats.

“Be Anxious for nothing but in everything through prayer,” He emphasizes.

As this year plods on I have felt dry, disconnected, and fearful.

My quiet time has become a routine and I need to hear God’s voice.  To hear God’s voice I dig into God’s Word

“He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;  I will be exalted among the nations,  I will be exalted in the earth.”” ( Psalm 46:10 NASB)

Fasting Feeds Your Soul 

What is the significance of 4 days fasting? Peace and satisfaction.

When I struggle with anxiety what I need is to be in God’s Word.  For this 40 day fast, I will be digging into the word and sharing it devotional style here.

A 40 day fasting Bible study.

These 40 posts will be different.  Not long, Not really How-To style.  Just 5 – 10 minutes’ worth of time with God.

Be sure to download the 40 day fast Bible Verses to help keep up with the study.  The study will focus on the bible verses about being still and how to apply them to our daily lives.

Warning About Fasting

But on another note, there is a real hard struggle you will face.  God will deal with you about sin first.  If there is known sin in your life, I’d start dealing with that before hand.  

Fasting is about a great deal more than seeking the face of God for your daily bread. 

He is holy.

He expects us to come to Him as a living sacrifice.  That’s a common part of our Christian walk.  But even as godly people, sin happens.  

So, yes, a time of fasting will lead to a great awakening for your Spiritually, but first the Lord will reveal many of the wicked ways you’ve explained away or ignored.  

In this way, He grows the fruit of the Spirit in us, making us more like Him.  That leads to the growth of the Church… not growth in numbers, but growth in maturity.  We need that!

We need the mercy of God to reveal our sins… and change us so we can be His light to the lost world.  

So if it’s Ash Wednesday and you hope to fast through Easter Sunday, be ready.

What you want comes with an uncomfortable 40 day journey… but it’s worth it!

How do you Fast Time?

I am fasting my time.  The first 5 minutes of my day and then the best 5 minutes of my day.  Will you join me?

• Set a reminder on your phone.
• Will you get up 5 minutes earlier?
• Maybe you can take your lunch to work so you can carve out 5 minutes mid-day.
• Plan what you will read in the Bible.
• Be ready for distractions and frustration during the designated time.

Will you join me for this 40-day fast?  Drop a comment “I’m in” and I’ll be lifting you up in prayer throughout the series.

The FREE 40 Day Fasting and Prayer Guide with 40 Day Fast Bible Verses

Be sure to download your reading guide with all 40 day fasting and prayer Bible Verses.  Then keep up with the 40 day fast devotionals here.

Each day as the articles are written they will appear here to help you keep up with the reading.

This 40-day fast guide is broken up into 3 sections.  

• Understanding the phrase “Be still and know”.
• How to obey, “Fear not.”
• Applying, “Fear not,” and “Be still,” by abiding in Christ.

Understanding the Phrase, “Be still and Know”

Understanding the phrase, “Be still and know God,” is really at the heart of any time of fasting.  That is why we are focusing so much time on understanding the original language and seeing how to apply the passages to our lives today.  

How to obey, “Fear not”

Once we understand what it means to be still and know God, we can begin to feel the fear ease.  However, it is still hard to obey the command, “Fear not.”  In this section of our 40-day fasting guide, we will take several weeks to see how to let go of fear.  

Applying, “Fear not,” and “Be still,” by abiding in Christ

So far in our fasting, we have focused on being still with God.  Next, we learned how to set aside our fear.  Finally, we will begin looking at how to abide in Christ every day.  Abiding in Christ is a lifelong endeavor but looking at each area will help us let God shine His light on areas He wants to help us grow.  

Tiffany of Hope Joy in Christ inspires Christian Women to grow in faith, live out Biblical Marriage Principles and raise Godly Children.  Join the Wives Only Facebook Group here or keep up with her through Pinterest .

  Day 40 – 

If you enjoyed this you would also like these Posts:

• How to Become a Strong Prayer Warrior and Why
• Be a Biblical wife to an Ungodly Husband
• 5 Reasons God Calls His People in a Fast with Hope

Tiffany Montgomery

55 thoughts to “40 day fasting and prayer guide: be still and know god more”.

Such an awesome idea! I committed to doing a daily quiet time quite a while ago. As you are not a morning person, this wouldn’t work for you, but I asked God to allow me to wake up at 4:30AM so I could do my quiet time, and the Holy Spirit has made it so that it has never been a struggle!! For you, it would have to be a different time, right? God bless you!

LOL yes, a different time for me Janene! I love that you are already doing that – it is a habit that makes a difference.

This a great way to walk through the Lenten season. I will be mindful to listen to His voice through this season and to lean into His faithfulness. Thank you.

So glad it blessed you Maryann. Praying you will join us and invite your friends 😉

These are great tips!

So glad it blessed you STeph. Praying over you now.

Knowing God more seems to be a theme for me today. Great post, Tiffany!

IKR!?!?! I see it everywhere right now. God is clearly speaking!

I was just discussing with my friends what we are going to do for this time of lent. We have decided to try to lean into God more.

I love that Rachel!

Confession: I haven’t decided what I’m fasting yet. I’m officially late! I’ve been thinking it through and we’ve cut out so much just as a part of our lifestyle, at this point I think fasting (for me) is more so what I am committing TO DO instead of what I’m committing to cut out. I’m still mulling it over.

I hear that Lo. I am fasting Time… which is harder than I thought it would be. Giving him 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes in the afternoon.

This is great inspiration to go through the Lent season, thank you!

So glad it blessed yoU Leigh.

Thank you, Tiffany for being real about your own struggles. I think we all have a habit of giving God our leftover time rather than our best time. I am a morning person, but often I am struggling to get to work on time. I really need to revisit the idea of getting up earlier, to give Him my best time. Thank you for this timely reminder as we head toward Easter. – Amy http://stylingrannymama.com/

That is the truth… it’s hard to give Him my best. Praying this 40-day Fast will help reset that for us all.

Tiffany, I love that you said our first 5 minutes and our BEST five minutes, I’m being honest when sometimes I feel like I have given God my leftovers instead of my first fruits. Thank You for creating the awareness in my heart as I walk through this Lent season. My prayer in this Lent season is God would stir my heart with His Word and reveal those things which I need to learn to grow closer to Him.

Amen to that Prayer Sheila!

Such a great journey to go through during lent!

I am so excited about it Amber!

I did a social media fast for a couple of weeks at the end of last year and it was amazing how much more peace and calm I felt!

I agree! Taking time off of Social Media… even just one social media makes life much more peaceful.

I’m in.

Praying for you now Browynne.

I’m in for the fasting time and Be Still, even though I’m starting late.

Praying over you now Lynne. There is no “late” 😉 Today is a great day to choose to know God more!

I would have liked to join also, is it too late?

There’s no such thing as too late! Today is a great day to take a step closer to knowing God and Being Still with Him.

Praying over you this morning Teneisha.

Praying over you this morning Latoya.

Hi Tiffany, thank you for your love and being real.I am in for the 40 day fast,I need breakthrough

Praying for you as you lean into God through this time of fasting, Lorrian!

I’m in

Praying over you now sarah!

I too also suffer with not giving God that dedicated time, church on Sunday, a season of change, then a whirlwind of chaos. I will also dedicated 40 days of God’s time fast.

Praying over you now Kantrella!

• Pingback: 27 Fasting and Prayer Scriptures for Spiritual Breakthrough - Kingdom Bloggers
• Pingback: 7 Different Types of Biblical Fasting - HDLD Ministries
• Pingback: 3 Reasons You Should Be Fasting for Spiritual Growth - Holistic Faith Lifestyle

Just wondering if you are doing this 40 day fast again this year.

Yes. I am starting Wednesday 2/17 and can’t wait to see what God will do!

I’m in…..thanks for you help

Standing in prayer with you today, Elsie.

Praise the Lord. Praying over you right now, Veronicah.

I think you are an incredibly strong woman (even if you don’t feel like it) and I am excited to follow along and see what this year holds in store for you and your journey!!

I am praying over you in your journey and am glad to chat anytime.

iam in…..I dont know if am late

It is never too late to lean into God. Praying over you right now in the journey.

Thank you very much for this.I want to receive the guides for the 40 day prayer and fasting. Thank you and God bless!

Praying over you right now, Clarissa.

2022 but im in

Covering you in prayer today, Veronica

Comments are closed.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

*P.S. This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.

40 day spiritual fast

40 day spiritual fast: embracing a journey of inner transformation.

Embarking on a 40-day spiritual fast is a powerful discipline that spans various traditions and faiths, rooted deeply in the desire for a closer relationship with God. This period of fasting is not just a practice of abstention from food but is an intentional clearing of space in one’s life for spiritual reflection and growth. The journey of a spiritual fast serves to sharpen the focus on the divine, allowing a person to tune into the spiritual realm with greater clarity and strength.

The concept of a 40-day fast holds significant historical and religious resonance, mirroring the experiences of key figures within sacred scriptures who spent 40 days in fasting to prepare for monumental tasks or to experience profound spiritual revelations. Participants in this form of fasting approach the practice with a heart open to transformation, finding that their physical discipline can lead to a reinvigoration of the spirit and a renewed sense of purpose.

A 40-day spiritual fast goes beyond mere physical abstinence, extending into areas of personal sacrifice and heightened spiritual discipline. Through this period, individuals often report a deepened understanding of their faith and a more tangible sense of connection with the transcendent. It’s not merely a test of the will but an exercise in drawing nearer to one’s spiritual foundations and recommitting to the values that form the bedrock of their faith and life’s journey.

Biblical Significance

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qc4bu2Vh4mE&embed=true

The period of 40 days is notably recurrent throughout the Bible, presenting a time for prayer , fasting , and spiritual preparation before significant events and transformations.

Events and Figures

• Moses : Ascended Mount Sinai and spent 40 days and nights there, during which he received the Ten Commandments (Exodus 24:18).
• Elijah : Journeyed for 40 days and nights to Horeb, the mountain of God, on the strength of a single meal (1 Kings 19:8).
• Noah : Experienced the rains which lasted for 40 days and nights that cleansed the earth (Genesis 7:12).
• Jesus : Before beginning His ministry, Jesus fasted for 40 days in the wilderness, resisting temptation (Matthew 4:2).

Scriptural Foundations

• Fasting : Isaiah 58 outlines a true fast that pleases God, focusing on righteousness and compassion.
• Prayer and Fasting : The 40 day fasts of key biblical figures were often accompanied by prayer, reflecting a time of deep communion with God.

Types of Fasts

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5Uoo–ONNM&embed=true

In the discipline of spiritual fasting, the approach and intensity can vary widely. The type of fast someone chooses depends on their specific spiritual goals, health requirements, and guidance from their faith traditions. Below are the most widely acknowledged forms of fasting in religious circles, notably within the Christian tradition.

Complete Fast

A Complete Fast involves abstaining from all food and drink, including water, for a certain period. It represents the most intense form of spiritual fasting and should only be undertaken with caution and under appropriate supervision. Note : It is crucial to consider health implications when undertaking such a fast.

Partial Fast

Contrary to a complete fast, a Partial Fast allows for the consumption of certain foods or drinks. During this fast, individuals typically limit their intake to just liquids, or they might refrain from certain kinds of foods like meats and sweets. This type of fast can be tailored to individual health needs or specific spiritual objectives.

Daniel Fast

The Daniel Fast is inspired by the prophet Daniel’s fasting experiences, as described in the Bible. This is a type of partial fast where individuals avoid “royal foods” like meats, wines, and sweets, and consume primarily vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and water. It is intended to be a spiritual commitment rather than a dietary restriction, emphasizing simplicity and self-discipline.

Preparation for Fasting

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnBVr8-5rUE&embed=true

Before one begins a 40-day spiritual fast, it is vital to take stock of both spiritual and physical readiness. Clear intentions and health considerations provide the foundation for a transformative experience.

Spiritual Intentions

One’s heart must be aligned with specific spiritual objectives at the outset of a fast. Preparation involves setting clear focus areas which may include personal growth, intercessory prayer, or seeking deeper communion with the divine. It is beneficial to establish a habit of journal -keeping to record thoughts, prayers, and revelations as they emerge during the fasting period. This reflective practice can deepen one’s understanding and commitment to the fast.

Physical Considerations

Undergoing a fast, especially one of 40 days, entails careful preparation to mitigate health risks. Individuals should consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they are fit to abstain from food for an extended period. A gradual reduction in food intake and the elimination of caffeine and sugar prior to the fast can ease the body into the discipline. In addition, it is essential to stay hydrated and be attuned to the body’s signals throughout the fasting journey.

Fasting and Health

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ouegNEy6y8&embed=true

The practice of fasting has significant implications on one’s health, with potential benefits and risks that vary based on individual health status and the way fasting is conducted. It is crucial for individuals to consider how their bodies might react to an extended period of fasting and to be aware of the specific health concerns related to their personal situation.

Fasting can have a positive effect on the body by promoting detoxification processes. During a fast, the absence of new caloric intake can allow the liver and kidneys to efficiently process and eliminate stored toxins. In the context of health benefits, fasting might also improve cardiovascular health by helping to regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

• Blood diseases : Some studies have indicated periodic fasting could contribute to better blood sugar control and insulin regulation, which can be beneficial for managing diabetes.
• Exercise : Engaging in mild to moderate exercise during a fast could enhance the benefits by boosting circulation and improving overall cardiovascular health.

However, it is important that individuals approach fasting cautiously and under medical supervision, especially when managing chronic conditions.

Extended fasting comes with substantial risks, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

• Chronic problems : Those with chronic health issues such as liver, kidney, or lung disease should be cautious, as fasting may exacerbate these conditions.
• Blood diseases : People with bleeding ulcers or blood diseases could face serious health complications from an extended fast.
• Diabetes : Fasting can dangerously affect blood sugar levels. People who are dependent on insulin or have conditions like hypoglycemia must consult with a healthcare provider before embarking on a fast to avoid critical health risks.
• Nursing : Nursing mothers should avoid long fasts as it can impact milk production and may transfer insufficient nutrients to the baby.

Due to these potential risks, medical guidance is imperative to prevent issues such as severe headaches, nutrient deficiencies, and other complications like the potential worsening of tumors or cancer.

Spiritual Benefits and Practices

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUc0zScPZA0&embed=true

Engaging in a 40-day spiritual fast can lead to significant spiritual benefits, as it is a time dedicated to enhancing one’s relationship with the divine through focused spiritual discipline s. Participants often experience a renewed sense of spiritual discipline, deeper spiritual insight, and pronounced spiritual breakthroughs. This structured period of fasting is an intentional act for cultivating godliness and gaining clarity in one’s spiritual life .

Prayer and Meditation

Prayer during a 40-day fast is essential, serving as a means for individuals to communicate with their spiritual foundation and seek guidance. It provides an avenue for expressing gratitude, seeking forgiveness, and petitioning for assistance. Meditation , on the other hand, allows for reflection and opens the heart to receive spiritual insight. Both practices are central to experiencing spiritual renewal and are often performed with increased frequency and intensity during these 40 days.

Spiritual Discipline

Adopting a spiritual discipline is at the heart of a 40-day fast. This may include daily readings, affirmations, or committing to specific ethical or spiritual behaviors. Such discipline aids in the cleansing of the spirit and the cultivation of habits that are aligned with spiritual growth. It is the act of intentionally setting aside time each day to focus on spiritual matters that paves the way for transformative change.

Spiritual Breakthrough

The ultimate goal for many who embark on a 40-day fast is the attainment of a spiritual breakthrough . This can manifest as a dramatic shift in one’s understanding of their spiritual journey, a deep cleansing of past regrets, or a renewed zest for godliness. It is a moment of profound realization that often leads to a revitalized spirit and a heart more attuned to the spiritual realm.

Experiences and Testimonies

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pc2gy1dV3x4&embed=true

Personal experiences and testimonies from various periods reveal the significance that a 40-day spiritual fast holds within religious contexts, shedding light on both the historical implications and the contemporary perspectives.

Historical Accounts

Throughout history, notable religious figures and leaders have undertaken 40-day fasts. Martin Luther , the seminal figure of the Protestant Reformation, engaged in fasting as a form of spiritual discipline. Similarly, John Calvin and John Knox also participated in fasting practices, though records of specific 40-day fasts are not extensively documented.

John Wesley , the founder of Methodism, was a strong advocate for fasting. It is documented that he fasted before momentous occasions and urged his followers to do the same in preparation for the Great Commission . Furthermore, Charles Finney , a leader in the Second Great Awakening, practiced fasting and believed in its power to enhance personal holiness and effectiveness in ministry.

Contemporary Perspectives

In modern times, many in the Christian community continue to observe 40-day fasts, drawing inspiration from historical practices and biblical accounts. Bill Bright , founder of Campus Crusade for Christ, popularized the 40-day fast in contemporary Christian circles, emphasizing its importance for personal revival and readiness for service.

Contemporary testimonies, such as those from churches and individuals engaged in ministry, often report deepened relationships with God and enhanced clarity in personal faith journeys. It’s not uncommon for these testimonies to highlight how a 40-day fast has helped individuals to become more attuned to their spiritual responsibilities and to reinvigorate their dedication to service and religion.

Fasting as a Community

Fasting in a communal setting extends beyond individual discipline, fostering a sense of unity and shared spiritual purpose. Participants often engage in group fasting within religious communities, providing mutual support and enhancing the collective spiritual journey.

Church and Group Fasting

Churches serve as significant hubs for organizing community fasts , pulling congregations together in a joint effort to deepen faith and promote spiritual growth . It is common for churches to initiate structured fasting periods, using the time for prayer , worship , and service . The practice often aligns with significant religious events or seasons, creating an environment where individuals encourage one another and experience communal support.

• Support through Service: Many churches integrate acts of service into their fasting practices, strengthening community ties.
• Structured Guidance: Group fasting events provide structured guidance and support, critical for those undertaking longer fasts, such as the traditional 40-day fast .

Global Practice

In a broader context, fasting as a community transcends local boundaries and can become a global practice . Various faith traditions observe fasts worldwide, making it an act that can unite individuals across nations in a shared spiritual experience. These global fasting practices can be specific to a faith, such as during Lent in Christianity or Ramadan in Islam.

• Transnational Unity: Fasting together strengthens bonds across nations , allowing participants to feel part of a larger, global community .
• Cultural and Religious Significance: Such practices are steeped in cultural and religious significance, often accompanied by special rites and communal gatherings.

While individual fasting focuses on personal spirituality , communal fasting uses the collective power of the community to uplift, sustain, and connect its participants, regardless of the nation or the world at large.

Practical Aspects

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjMNQKL0gkA&embed=true

In approaching a 40-day spiritual fast, individuals must prepare practical strategies for their daily schedule and handling hunger. These systems support the discipline and focus necessary for such an extended period of abstinence.

Daily Schedule and Routines

To maintain consistency, one should establish a daily schedule that allocates specific times for prayer, meditation, and spiritual readings—cornerstones of the fast. This schedule may look like:

• Morning : Wake up, drink water, time of prayer and meditation
• Midday : Short walk, spiritual reading or listening to teachings, personal reflection
• Evening : Additional prayer, review of the day’s experiences, early bedtime for adequate rest

Managing Hunger and Thirst

During the fast, the body will signal hunger and thirst as natural responses to abstaining from food and beverages.

• Hydration : Drink water consistently throughout the day to manage thirst and maintain hydration levels.
• Dealing with Hunger : Engage in a spiritual practice like prayer or reading scripture when hunger pangs occur to reinforce the purpose of the fast and shift focus.

Concluding the Fast

In the final phase of a 40-day spiritual fast, individuals face critical components: safely reintroducing food and leveraging the period of introspection to influence future spiritual practices.

Breaking the Fast

When breaking the fast , it is imperative to start with light and easily digestible foods to give the digestive system time to readjust. One might begin with broths or soups , followed by steamed vegetables and fruits . The reintroduction phase is typically a multi-day process, where portion sizes gradually increase to normal levels. Individuals should listen to their bodies and seek guidance if any discomfort arises.

Reflection and Forward Thinking

Post-fast reflection is about considering the spiritual insights and habits gained during this period. Individuals often use devotionals to document their journey, noting moments of difficulty and triumph, which becomes a testament to their obedience and dedicated spiritual practice . Evaluating these experiences encourages future growth and helps solidify positive habits formed during the fast. They should apply these lessons to continue fostering a robust spiritual life, maintaining consistent practices or rituals cultivated through this discipline.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

When participating in a 40-day spiritual fast , individuals must weigh legal and ethical aspects, particularly around religious observance and the social implications. Such fasts, often seen as a means of humbling oneself before God, can have profound personal and community effects.

Religious Observance

Religious Freedom : In diverse societies, individuals have the legal right to practice fasting as part of their spiritual life, as it is often protected under religious freedom laws. This extends to the act of repentance and seeking divine grace through extended fasts .

Employment Considerations : Ethically, employers should accommodate an employee’s commitment to a 40-day fast, provided it does not infringe on the individual’s ability to perform their job safely and effectively. This respect for religious observance reflects the societal value of humility and tolerance.

Social Implications

Community Support : Engaging in a 40-day fast is a significant event that ideally involves support from one’s community. It speaks to the collective respect for individual expressions of humility and the seeking of spiritual healing.

Health and Safety : Ethically, it is crucial that individuals approach fasting with an understanding of potential health risks, particularly in the case of an extended fast . They must be informed of when and how to safely participate, aligning with both religious teachings, such as God’s word , and health considerations.

Fasting and Media

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l0LEiFTWaPM&embed=true

While engaging in a 40-day spiritual fast, individuals often seek a retreat from the cacophony of modern life, aiming to foster a deepened focus on spiritual disciplines. Here, emphasis is placed on relinquishing the persistent barrage of media to carve out a sacred space akin to a wilderness experience, where one can engage in prayer and fasting, bible study, and ultimately seek the glory of God.

Limiting External Influences

The act of limiting external influences is a deliberate reduction in the consumption of media—especially that which distracts from spiritual goals. During the fast, individuals may choose to:

• Avoid : Non-essential media such as news, social media, movies, and television.
• Limit : The duration and frequency of necessary media interactions, establishing specific times for check-ins.

By intentionally curbing media intake, one allows for a quieter environment conducive to reflection and communion with God.

Use of Digital Resources

Conversely, the use of digital resources can enhance the fasting experience if aligned with spiritual pursuits. Participants might find the following digital engagements beneficial:

• Online Bible Study : Engaging with scripture through digital platforms that offer structured bible study plans.
• Prayer Apps : Utilizing applications designed to schedule prayer times or provide prayer guides.

When media serves a purposeful role, it can be a resource that contributes to the fast’s intent without detracting from the pursuit of spiritual clarity and the glory of God.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries about the nature and practice of a 40-day spiritual fast, providing guidance from scriptural references, prayer suggestions, preparation advice, expected stages of the fast, spiritual benefits, and tips for post-fast routines.

What are some key scriptural references to support a 40-day spiritual fast?

In Christian tradition, scriptural references such as Jesus fasting for 40 days and 40 nights in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-2) and Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 34:28) often serve as foundational examples for engaging in a 40-day spiritual fast.

Which prayers are particularly meaningful during a 40-day spiritual fast?

Prayers that focus on repentance, spiritual growth, and reliance on God, such as the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13), can be particularly meaningful during a 40-day spiritual fast.

How should one prepare both spiritually and physically for a 40-day fast?

Individuals should prepare spiritually by seeking clarity on their fast’s intention and physically by gradually reducing food intake and consulting healthcare professionals. For more information on preparation, consider reading Personal Guide to Fasting by Dr. Bill Bright.

What are the typical stages experienced during a 40-day spiritual fast?

During a 40-day fast, individuals often experience initial hunger pangs, followed by increased clarity of thought and deeper spiritual insights as the body adjusts, leading to greater emotional and spiritual changes .

What are the potential spiritual benefits or miracles associated with completing a 40-day fast?

Potential spiritual benefits include heightened spiritual awareness, stronger self-discipline, and sometimes profound personal revelations or answers to prayer .

How do you transition back to daily routines and maintain spiritual gains after a 40-day fast?

One should gradually reintroduce foods while reflecting on lessons learned to maintain spiritual gains. It is essential to integrate regular spiritual disciplines like prayer and meditation to sustain the connection with God post-fast.

CLICK to s ee TV videos & NEWS story: 40 Day "Generous Life" devotional becomes BEST SELLER

MAXIMUM Generosity Rev. Brian Kluth, Founder  Denver, CO Colorado Springs, CO   719-930-4000 Email: [email protected]

(c) All material on this website is copyrighted.   Do not use or distribute any of this material without permission.

• New Leaders
• Class A Uniforms
• Field Uniforms
• Adventurer Gear
• Investiture Patches & Pins
• Master Guide
• Adventurer Leadership Growth
• Sale / Special Offers
• Teen Leadership Training (TLT)
• Honors Helps
• Pathfinder Gear
• Pathfinder Leadership Award
• Pathfinder Instructor Award
• Pathfinder Certification
• Program Helps
• Training Curriculum
• Skits, Crafts and Bible Games
• Books for Kids
• Visual Aids
• Sabbath School Helps
• Bible & Baptismal Lessons
• Child Evangelism
• Children's Sabbath
• Children’s Church
• Kids in Discipleship
• Stewardship
• Vacation Bible School
• Program Ideas
• Adventist Youth
• Sabbath School
• Bible Studies
• World Missions
• Public Campus
• Summer Camp
• Do It Together
• Adventist Chaplaincy Ministry
• Adventist Missions
• Adventist Worship Music
• Audio/Visual
• Bible School
• Church Board
• Church Clerk
• Church Supplies
• Communication
• Community Services
• Deacon & Deaconess
• Disabilities Ministries
• Disaster Response
• Education/Church School
• Family Ministries
• Greeter & Usher
• Health Ministries
• Hospitality
• Men's Ministries
• Music Ministry
• Personal Ministries
• Prayer Ministries
• Prison Ministry
• Reconnecting Ministries
• Religious Liberty
• Sabbath School – Adult
• Senior Ministries
• Single Adult Ministries
• Small Groups
• Social Committee
• Technology Ministries
• Volunteer Ministries
• Women's Ministries
• Assessment & Training
• Church Growth & Evangelism
• Discipleship
• Domestic Violence & Abuse
• Grief Recovery
• Community Programs
• Sermon Study Helps & AV
• Special Events
• Spiritual Gifts
• Training Members
• Administration
• Adventurer Club
• Pathfinder Club
• Children's Ministries
• Youth Ministries
• Young Adult Ministries
• Adult Ministries
• Pastors' Resources
• Shop by catalog #

40 Days: Prayer & Devotion to Revive Your Experience with God

Product #050752.

• Price: $12.99
• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• Author: Dennis Smith
• Publisher: Review and Herald

Description

What difference can 40 days make?

A lot, if you’re praying. Join Dennis Smith on a 40-day spiritual journey that will change your life. As you commit to 40 days of personal devotional study and prayer, your prayer life will become more consistent and effective, your faith will grow as you witness answered prayers, and your connection with fellow believers will deepen.

Each day’s uplifting devotional reading is followed by a related prayer activity and personal reflection and discussion questions. If you’ve longed for a spiritual breakthrough but didn’t know where to begin, start here. Smith will guide you through 40 days of practical biblical teachings that are essential for every Christian to study.

In the style of Smith’s popular  40 Days: Prayer and Devotions to Prepare for the Second Coming , this book can help revive the spiritual experience of individuals, small groups, and entire churches. Find out for yourself what an amazing difference 40 days can make.

Paperback. Copyright 2011. 112 pages.

Advent Source recommends

40 Days of Prayer

40 Days to Your Harvest

40 Days: Prayer and Devotions to Prepare for the Second Coming

Christ's Way To Pray

Daring to Ask for More

The Amazing Side Effects of Prayer

What the Bible Says About...

People who bought this product also bought

Praying Like Crazy for Your Kids

Raising Godly Children in an Ungodly World - iFollow Bible Study Guide

New Members' Bible Study Guide: In Step With Jesus - The Journey Begins

New Members' Bible Study Guide: In Step with Jesus - The Power of Love

New Members' Bible Study Guide: In Step With Jesus - The Power of the Word

New Members' Bible Study Guide: In Step With Jesus - The Power of Mission

Old Man New Man (DVD)

Customer Support

• Church websites

• 5120 Prescott Ave
• Lincoln NE 68506
• United States

• 402.486.8800
• 800.328.0525
• [email protected]

Sun, Aug 20

40 Day Spiritual Journey

The Prayer Tribe and Faith Room is collaborating to bring you 40 Days of Faith-Miracles, Signs, and Wonders Edition.

Time & Location

Aug 20, 2023, 6:00 AM – Oct 01, 2023, 6:30 AM

About the event

Join us as we seek to increase our faith and walk to God over the next 40 days starting on Sunday, August 20, 2023 and closing out on Sunday, October 1, 2023. 

If you are in the beginning stages of your faith walk or you're looking to deepen your relationship with God and intentionally vibrate higher in a holistic way while connecting with other like-minded individuals then we encourage you to JOIN US for 40 Days of spiritual elevation! 

What you can expect leading up to and during the 40-Day Spiritual Journey includes the creation of prayer boards, community spiritual fasting (optional) & prayer M-F at 6 am, daily readings from Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, weekly check-ins including book club recaps. Also, gaining like-minded accountability partners to walk with on the journey while anticipating miracles & wonders of God!

The pre-launch virtual party is Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at 8:00 pm est inside of the Faith Room to get an understanding of what to expect over the 40-Days and be provided with all materials that are needed to begin on Sunday, August 20, 2023. 

For any questions, comments, and/or concerns please reach out to us directly at:

community@livingintentionally.info

Coaching | Living Intentionally Tiffany B (livingintentionallywithtiffanyb.com)  

Share this event

Bible Study Resources - Tips, Online Bible Search, Devotions

• BROWSE TOPICS X
• Devotionals
• Newsletters

What Is the Significance of 40 Days in the Bible?

• Whitney Hopler Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer
• Updated Jun 20, 2022

The number 40 appears often in the Bible, in ways that have symbolic meaning and importance. 40 days in the Bible is especially prominent – God flooded the Earth for 40 days, Jesus spent 40 days between his Resurrection and Ascension, and much more. Let’s discover the meaning and significance and 40 days in the Bible.

How Many Times Is '40 Days' Mentioned in the Bible?

The phrase “40 days” is mentioned in the Bible more than 20 times – some in the Old Testament and some in the New Testament. Here are highlights of those instances.

We first encounter it in Genesis 7:4 , which records God describing his plans for dealing with the rampant sin on our planet: “Seven days from now I will send rain on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and I will wipe from the face of the earth every living creature I have made.” Then, in Genesis 7:12 , we read, “And rain fell on the earth forty days and forty nights.” As the Bible describes God’s mercy on faithful people through the story of Noah’s Ark, the timing of 40 days shows up again in Genesis 7:17 and Genesis 8:6 .

In 1 Kings 19:8 , we read about how the prophet Elijah fasts for 40 days as he travels, after the angel of the Lord tells him to eat and drink to help him make a spiritual journey: “So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.”

God instructed the prophet Ezekiel to lay on his right side for 40 days (and on his left side for 390 days) to symbolically bear the sins of Judea and Israel, which had rebelled against God for 40 years and 390 years, respectively ( Ezekiel 4:5-6 ).

In Jonah 3:4 , Jonah delivered a prophecy, warning that the city of Nineveh would be overthrown: “Jonah began by going a day's journey into the city, proclaiming, ‘Forty more days and Nineveh will be overthrown.’” The people of Nineveh took that warning seriously and used the 40 days to repent of their sins. As a result, God spared them.

Jesus spent 40 days in the desert wilderness before he began his public ministry. During those 40 days, Jesus was tempted by evil to sin in ways that are common to all humanity in this fallen world. Mark 1:13 mentions that Jesus “… was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.” During those 40 days, Jesus was tempted by evil to sin in ways that are common to all humanity in this fallen world. But each time, Jesus fought back and overcame the temptations. He fasted during the 40 days as well ( Matthew 4:2 and Luke 4:2 ), focusing on his spiritual goals and preparing to start ministering publicly.

What Is the Meaning of 40 Days in the Bible?

The phrase “40 days” in the Bible designates a period of time to complete an important spiritual challenge. When the Bible uses that phrase, something challenging that leads to spiritual growth is always taking place within the context of 40 days. Often, the spiritual challenge involves repentance from sin and strengthening faith, such as the story of the great flood and Noah’s Ark and the stories of Ezekiel, Jonah, and David and Goliath. At other times, the spiritual challenge involves overcoming temptation, as Jesus did in the desert wilderness. A 40-day challenge may also involve a vital meeting with God, like Moses’ encounter with God on Mount Sinai and Elijah’s journey to meet with God on Mount Horeb. Finally, the Bible uses the phrase “40 days” to refer to the challenge that Jesus gave people who encountered him between his Resurrection and Ascension – to believe in the good news of the Gospel and to begin saving relationships with God. The Bible’s use of “40 days” is consistent with its use of the number 40 overall, which also signifies the time during which some sort of spiritual challenge takes place – such as the 40 years that Israelites spent wandering in the desert before reaching the Promised Land.

Why Is '40 Days' Significant?

The significance of 40 days in the Bible is that God allows us to go through challenges in order to grow spiritually. The 40-day time period highlights the importance of strengthening our faith by relying on God’s help in challenging circumstances. Also, 40 days highlights God’s patience with us. By using that generous amount of time to symbolize a period of spiritual growth in the Bible, God is sending a message that growing spiritually is a process that takes time to complete.

The 40-day time period from the Bible is reflected in the church calendar, as well. Liturgical seasons that are intended for spiritual growth – such as Lent before Easter and Advent before Christmas – are 40 days long.

When we read the biblical instances of 40 days, we see that God is working powerfully in those challenging situations to accomplish some type of important spiritual purpose, such as helping people overcome temptation, repent from sin, or strengthen their faith. The time of 40 days in the Bible shows that the challenges we encounter can help us grow spiritually when we rely on God during those challenges. God is always at work in our lives, but 40 days symbolizes special times when God asks us to focus on moving closer to him.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/toeytoey2530 

Recently On Bible Study

Editor's Picks

Popular Today

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Crosswalk App
• California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• California - CCPA Notice

The Bible App is completely free, with no advertising and no in-app purchases. Get the app

40 Days of Spiritual Reboot

A 40 day journey of Spiritual renewal through the lent.

We would like to thank Covenant Life for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://www.jeremydawson.org/

Related Plans

Prayers From the New Testament

Draw From Heaven's Well: Live and Lead From Strength

Seeking Him: 12 Days to Spiritual Revival

Bloom and Grow: 7 Devotions for Gardeners at Heart

5 Days to Finding More Peace

Addiction: How to Help Hurting People

Five Days Toward a Peaceful, Humble Life

The Psychology of Tithing: How Tithing Shapes Our Minds and Lives

Proverbs 31 Warriors

Holy Week Devotional

YouVersion uses cookies to personalize your experience. By using our website, you accept our use of cookies as described in our Privacy Policy

We will keep fighting for all libraries - stand with us!

Internet Archive Audio

• This Just In
• Grateful Dead
• Old Time Radio
• 78 RPMs and Cylinder Recordings
• Audio Books & Poetry
• Computers, Technology and Science
• Music, Arts & Culture
• News & Public Affairs
• Spirituality & Religion
• Radio News Archive

• Flickr Commons
• Occupy Wall Street Flickr
• NASA Images
• Solar System Collection
• Ames Research Center

• All Software
• Old School Emulation
• MS-DOS Games
• Historical Software
• Classic PC Games
• Software Library
• Kodi Archive and Support File
• Vintage Software
• CD-ROM Software
• CD-ROM Software Library
• Software Sites
• Tucows Software Library
• Shareware CD-ROMs
• Software Capsules Compilation
• CD-ROM Images
• ZX Spectrum
• DOOM Level CD

• Smithsonian Libraries
• FEDLINK (US)
• Lincoln Collection
• American Libraries
• Canadian Libraries
• Universal Library
• Project Gutenberg
• Children's Library
• Biodiversity Heritage Library
• Books by Language
• Additional Collections

• Prelinger Archives
• Democracy Now!
• Occupy Wall Street
• TV NSA Clip Library
• Animation & Cartoons
• Arts & Music
• Computers & Technology
• Cultural & Academic Films
• Ephemeral Films
• Sports Videos
• Videogame Videos
• Youth Media

Search the history of over 866 billion web pages on the Internet.

Mobile Apps

• Wayback Machine (iOS)
• Wayback Machine (Android)

Browser Extensions

Archive-it subscription.

• Explore the Collections
• Build Collections

Save Page Now

Capture a web page as it appears now for use as a trusted citation in the future.

Please enter a valid web address

• Donate Donate icon An illustration of a heart shape

You are invited on a 40-day spiritual journey to a more generous life

Bookreader item preview, share or embed this item, flag this item for.

• Graphic Violence
• Explicit Sexual Content
• Hate Speech
• Misinformation/Disinformation
• Marketing/Phishing/Advertising
• Misleading/Inaccurate/Missing Metadata

plus-circle Add Review comment Reviews

21 Previews

Better World Books

DOWNLOAD OPTIONS

No suitable files to display here.

PDF access not available for this item.

IN COLLECTIONS

Uploaded by station44.cebu on July 16, 2022

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Buy new: $8.42 $8.42 FREE delivery: Friday, April 5 on orders over $35.00 shipped by Amazon. Ships from: Amazon Sold by: High Quality Essentials LLC

Return this item for free.

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select the return method

Buy used: $5.99

Other sellers on amazon.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Follow the author

Christ Walk Kids: A 40-Day Spiritual Journey for Tweens and Teens Paperback – September 24, 2016

Purchase options and add-ons.

Developed as a companion to Christ Walk: A 40 Day Spiritual Fitness Program , Christ Walk Kids is an exciting 40-day journey for youth (ages 11 and up) to explore mind, body, and spiritual health. This book helps kids set physical goals by committing to walk different routes based on routes in the Bible. Each chapter explores a topic that everyone thinks about, but not everyone knows how to address. Anna Courie opens up a discussion with youth about health topics they think and talk about amongst themselves, but puts the dialogue in the perspective of spiritual development. Key to the success of this outline is that each day there are topics for youth and parents and/or youth leaders to use as they explore health in a safe environment. Youth are encouraged to participate fully in the Christ Walk program by physical challenges (walking, running, or biking “biblical” routes); mental challenges (deep discussion and thoughtfulness of youth health risks); and spiritual challenges (biblical references and spiritually grounded self-development). Youth and parents are urged to participate together in the Christ Walk program so that the church can address the health of the entire family holistically: mind, body, and spirit.

• Reading age 8 - 18 years
• Print length 96 pages
• Language English
• Dimensions 6.25 x 0.5 x 9 inches
• Publisher Morehouse Publishing
• Publication date September 24, 2016
• ISBN-10 0819233196
• ISBN-13 978-0819233196
• See all details

Frequently bought together

Customers who viewed this item also viewed

Editorial Reviews

“In a world that regularly bombards children with distorted body images, Anna Fitch Courie encourages children to explore healthy relationships––with their bodies, with one another, and with God. In its accessible style, Christ Walk Kids will motivate even the most reluctant teenager to get up and go!” ––The Rev. Tim Schenck, author of Father Tim’s Church Survival Guide and creator of Lent Madness

“Anna Courie has an infectious desire to live out the Christian life and to show how the good news of Jesus really does incarnate with us. Christ Walk Kids should be a useful resource for discipleship and growth in grace, in mind, body, and spirit.” ––Jason A. Greer, deacon, Redeemer Presbyterian Church, Greenville, SC

“ Christ Walk Kids is a powerful way to teach tweens and teens about how in God ‘we live, move, and have our being (Acts 17:28).’ Anna Fitch Courie, wise and direct, addresses the many questions that tweens and teens might have about living a life of faith in today's world. Christ Walk Kids provides kids, parents, and church leaders with a clear path to healthy choices for all ages.” ––Cathy Boyd, Director of Christian Formation, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Greenwood, VA “We all know that it is important to start early with teaching our children the importance of exercise and healthy eating. The thing I love about this book is that this is something families can do together­­––it doesn’t require carpools, expensive sports uniforms, or equipment. Christ Walk Kids is going to change lives. There is the physical health, yes, but this wonderful resource will also bring head, heart, and spiritual health!" ––Roger Hutchison, author of The Painting Table and Under the Fig Tree and the Director of Christian Formation and Parish Life at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church, Houston, TX

About the Author

Excerpt. © reprinted by permission. all rights reserved., christ walk kids, a 40-day spiritual journey for tweens and teens, church publishing incorporated.

Day 1 An Introduction to Christ Walk Kids

BIBLICAL BIG IDEA #1

And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us. — Ephesians 5:2a (ESV)

You are going to take a journey over the next forty days. You are going to take this journey with yourself and with God. I want you to pick a Bible route from the list in Appendix A and commit to doing exercise that will add up to the miles of this journey.

Ask your mom, dad, or church to get you a fitness tracker (Fitbit, pedometer, Garmin Connect, or something similar). You will want to clip this to your pants or wrist to track the exercise you do each day. You can write your daily miles in this book and then add up all the miles of exercise you do for the next forty days to see how far you can go.

Why should you do this? Forty days is a powerful time in the Bible. It can also be a time for God to transform you as a Christian. The next forty days are all about making a covenant with God about taking care of your body. Your body is God's temple in the world and all the things you do with your body show God's love to other people.

In addition, it is fun. How far can you go? Can you get mom or dad to also track miles over the next forty days? Can you beat them? Can you beat your brother or sister if you have one? Put a chart on the refrigerator including everyone in the family to see how far we can go together on a walk with Christ the next forty days. We will talk each day about different things you can do to live a healthy life with God. It will be fun! Come on!

What do you need to do?

1. Get a fitness tracker.

2. Pick a Bible route from Appendix A to commit to walking, running, biking, swimming, dancing, or other activity.

3. Start exercising and tracking your miles.

4. Read about the Bible route you chose and think about what God was doing in the world on this journey.

5. Read a chapter a day for the next forty days and let us discuss what it means to be a Christ Walk Kid.

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

1. What exercise do I want to commit to for the next forty days?

2. How can I get my mom, dad, siblings, a friend, or someone else involved?

3. What promise will I make to God the next forty days?

DAY 1 Steps taken: __________________________

Miles journeyed: __________________________

Exercise chosen: _________________________________________________________________

What I told God today: _______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

Something I thought about: ____________________________________________________________

Day 2 How Did God Make Me?

BIBLICAL BIG IDEA #2

God created humanity in God's own image, in the divine image God created them, male and female God created them.

— Genesis 1:27

God made boys and girls in God's image. We each have characteristics that reflect what God looks like. Each of us carries a little bit of Christ in us.

Instead we are God's accomplishment, created in Christ Jesus to do good things. God planned for these good things to be the way that we live our lives. — Ephesians 2:10

Because we carry a little bit of Jesus in each of us, our job is to take care of the bodies that God gave us and use this body to do God's work in the world. When we use our bodies to do God's work in the world, we are reflecting the love of Jesus in each of us to everyone around us.

During Jesus' time on earth, people did not have cars, airplanes, trains, or other automatic transportation. They either walked or rode camels or donkeys. This is why during the forty days of Christ Walk Kids you are focusing on accomplishing a walking (or other fitness) goal. Think about the different journeys that people took during Jesus' time on foot. What do you think it would be like to be a part of that journey? Do you think it was hard to walk all the time? Do you think it would be exciting to be a part of Jesus' adventures?

Our bodies are special: They move, run, work, love, hug, hold hands, give high-fives, dance, play, and serve others. Your body should be special to you. You should take care of your body and treat it as though it is a gift from God (because it is).

1. What do I think of my body?

2. How can I remember that a part of God is a part of my body?

3. What do I think of taking care of my body and doing God's work in the world?

DAY 2 Steps taken: __________________________

Something I thought about: _______________________________________________________________

Day 3 What Can I Do With This Body?

BIBLICAL BIG IDEA #3

Go in peace. The LORD is watching over you on this trip you've taken. — Judges 18:6.

God calls us to take care of our bodies. Your body is the tool God has to make change in the world. God's word says we should honor our body.

Don't you know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you? Don't you know that you have the Holy Spirit from God, and you don't belong to yourselves? You have been bought and paid for, so honor God with your body. — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20

Because God has given us such a cool tool to do work in the world, we need to take care of it just like any other tool. I'm talking about our bodies! This means we need to eat a variety of healthy foods, we need to exercise, we need to rest, and we need to laugh daily. When we have joy and happiness in our lives, we are able to share that joy and happiness with others. When we are taking care of our bodies by eating, sleeping, exercising, and finding joy each day then we are building a strong temple. This temple that is our body is then more able to do God's work in the world. That means you will be stronger, faster, and filled with more joy and energy to share with your friends, family, and community. When you take care of your body, you can do anything with it that God has called you to do.

You will be able to move mountains, serve meals, build houses, teach at schools, travel to far off lands, tend gardens, run races, write books, and share yourself and God with others. The possibilities are endless.

1. What do I need to do to take care of my body?

2. How am I exercising, eating, sleeping, and finding joy each day?

3. What dreams do I have of doing great things with this body?

DAY 3 Steps taken: __________________________

Exercise chosen: _______________________________________________________________

Day 4 Where Can I Go With This Body?

BIBLICAL BIG IDEA #4

The land on which you have walked will forever be a legacy for you and your children. This is because you remained loyal to the LORD my God. — Joshua 14:9

What do you want to do with yourself? What are your dreams, hopes, or passions? What do you want to accomplish in this world? God gave you your body to do those things. You are only limited in where you go with your body by what you think you can do.

I was never an athlete. I was more on the arts and theater side of things when I was in school. I was active, but not an athlete. I think this is okay. We are all different. If there were only athletes in this world, then we would miss the great minds that create art, music, theater, dance, books, and more for the world to enjoy. There is a place for us all. God has a purpose for the artists, the athletes, the healers, the teachers, and all of us.

However, as I got older, and I went to work, I found that I really needed to find a sport or activity to keep me healthy. This made me take on something I had never done before: running. It was one of the most difficult tasks for me as an adult. You may laugh and think running is easy, but I will tell you, when you take on new things as you get older it is harder to learn them! Our bodies slow down and change in their ability to learn new things the older we get. This does not mean that we cannot learn new things, it just means the older you get, the harder it becomes. Today, you can learn almost effortlessly. You are learning daily. This is the time to find what you love (especially in physical exercise) and become really good at it.

Taking on new activities, new sports, and new hobbies means learning a discipline. You need to practice this discipline repeatedly for it to become a part of your daily life. Some new tasks may be difficult, but if you love it, and stick with it, it will become a habit for a lifetime.

1. What do I love to do?

2. What do I think I would like to learn, but I'm not sure?

3. What are my dreams ? What do I need to do to chase those dreams?

DAY 4 Steps taken: __________________________

What I told God today: _________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

Something I thought about: _________________________________________________________________

Day 5 Getting More Exercise

BIBLICAL BIG IDEA #5

You must walk the precise path that the Lord your God indicates for you so that you will live, and so that things will go well for you, and so you will extend your time on the land that you will possess. — Deuteronomy 5:33

Exercise is good for you. God designed your body to move. You can run, walk, bike, dance, do gymnastics, play basketball, play football, or play soccer. You can play. Exercise is about moving your body and being active; it is not supposed to be a chore. If you sit in front of a video game or a TV all day, your body will waste away. When you do not move, your muscles lose strength, your body gets weak, and your body stores fat more readily. Humans are physical beings. Humans have relationships with real people, not characters on TV or in games. Humans are meant to move their bodies.

Video games and TV are fun and there is nothing wrong with doing them for fun. However, video games and TV should not suck up all your time. You need to balance play, games, sports, school, church, and chores so you learn how to balance these things as an adult. The reason that parents stress these activities now is because it is much easier to learn new activities as a kid than as an adult. Your body is learning every day, and when you learn these exercises now, your body will remember how to continue to do these sports, exercises, and activities throughout your entire life.

You have been wearing your fitness tracker for about five days now. Do you like it? It is a good gauge to see how far you have moved in one day. Adults need to move about 10,000 steps a day for health. Do you do that? Can you beat that? Can you bike or walk to school? Can you run around your neighborhood? Can you set a goal for how many laps up and down your street you can run and then try to beat that over time? What games can you play with your friends? Can you climb a tree? Can you go play in a park? What do you think of signing up for your first race? Maybe your mom or dad would run it with you and train with you.

Getting exercise as a kid should be fun. Just go out there and be active. Enjoy the world God gave us.

1. What do I like to do?

2. Is there a new exercise or sport that I would like to try?

3. How can I try something new?

4. How much time do I spend on TV and video games in a day?

5. Can I beat my mom or dad in their steps each day?

DAY 5 Steps taken: __________________________

Day 6 What Did God Make?

BIBLICAL BIG IDEA #6

Before I created you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I set you apart; I made you a prophet to the nations. — Jeremiah 1:5

God made many things. Most importantly, God made you. That makes you a very, very special person. I believe that God put each of us in the world for a purpose. I believe God put you here to do something special for the world, so let God work through you.

When we look at the world around us, we see many beautiful things. If you walk outside right now, count how many things you find beautiful. Do the colors, sounds, smells, sights, and tastes of the world around excite you? Do you wonder about this world? These are all things that we have because God created the world and the many people who have allowed God to work through them to make it a better place.

The Bible says we are stewards of God's world. That means we need to take care of the world we live in. Just as we show kindness to one another, we should show kindness to the earth and take care of the world in which we live.

God made you. God made the world, the earth, the solar system, and the universe. You are part of something much larger. What do you think about that?

1. When I go outside, what are ten things I see, feel, hear, or taste that make me think of God?

2. What do I think about my role in the world around me?

3. How does it make me feel to be called special, important, and with a purpose?

DAY 6 Steps taken: __________________________

Day 7 Mama Told You to Eat Your Vegetables

BIBLICAL BIG IDEA #7

But on both banks of the river will grow up all kinds of fruit-bearing trees. Their leaves won't wither, and their fruitfulness won't wane. They will produce fruit in every month, because their water comes from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for eating, their leaves for healing. — Ezekiel 47:12

In addition to you, God made the food we eat to make us strong and healthy to do God's work in the world. While your body is growing, it is important to put healthy food in it for fuel. Just like a sports car, your body is going to run better, move better, and perform better when you put a high-octane fuel in it. If you constantly fill your gas tank with chips, soda, cake, ice cream, and other junk, you are filling up your body with the wrong kind of "gas." Junk food is low-octane fuel for the machine that is your body.

If you want to go fast, be strong, and be full of energy in life, then you need to put high-performing gas in your "car" (your body). God did not hang "energy replacement food bars" on the trees in the Garden of Eden. God gave us fruits and vegetables, meats, fish, and fowl from which to choose. These are good foods and they are yummy foods. Experiment with the different tastes and flavors from the food God gave us and you will find that you will be more satisfied over time. Eating real food keeps your moods from going high and low and helps you feel less irritable. The chemicals and excess sugar in processed foods create signals in the brain almost like a drug — functioning like uppers and downers. Just like with any drug, your body has to come off of these chemicals that cause your moods to crash and burn. In moderation, your body is less likely to respond to this, but a steady diet of poor food choices leaves your body confused. It makes your body think it is on a non-stop roller coaster because it is not getting the food and nutrients it needs to function at a high level.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Morehouse Publishing (September 24, 2016)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 96 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0819233196
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0819233196
• Reading age ‏ : ‎ 8 - 18 years
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 4.8 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.25 x 0.5 x 9 inches
• #1,049 in Walking (Books)
• #5,673 in Christian Faith (Books)
• #7,422 in Healing

About the author

Anna fitch courie.

Anna Fitch Courie is an army wife, nurse, layperson, and the author of "Christ Walk: A 40 Day Spiritual Fitness Program" (Church Publishing, Inc., 2015); "Christ Walk Kids" (Church Publishing, 2016); "Sally the Comet (CreateSpace, 2015); and "Sally and the Constellations" (CreateSpace, 2017); "The Adventures of Cancer Girl and God" (Church Publishing, 2017); and "Christ Walk Crushed" (Church Publishing, 2019). Anna finds her calling where health and spirituality intersect. Anna is a registered nurse by training and has been working in the health care field for the past twenty years. More recently, she has been a consultant on building community coalitions on health. Anna is a graduate of Clemson University, the University of Wyoming, and Education for Ministry at Sewanee: the University of the South. She is currently enrolled at Ohio State University in the Doctoral in Nursing Practice program. In her spare time, she fights cancer, consults in public health, and runs Christ Walk, retreats, writes books, and blogs for "50 Days of Fabulous" and "Lent Madenss." In her dream world, she hikes the El Camino and Mount Rainier, sails, travels, cooks, reads, and attends every Clemson football game each season. Home is wherever the Army (and God) sends her. You can find her blog at Christ Walk (www.christwalk40day.blogspot.com); on facebook at www.facebook.com/Christwalk40day; on twitter @christwalk1 and on Instagram @christwalk1.

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Start Selling with Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Host an Amazon Hub
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices