From the beginning of City Hills Church, we have made it a priority to seek God first in prayer. We do this collectively as a church in January and August through 21 Days of Prayer. These two months are intentional, as they begin new seasons of the year. Together, we faithfully seek God first, trusting in His power alone to create lasting impact in our lives, our church and our world.

 

 

 

 

Pray with us!

January 5 – 25, 2025

 

 

ONE CHURCH. TWO LOCATIONS.

Weekly Services: Monday – Friday at 6am / Saturdays at 9am

Sunday Services:  8:15am / 10:00am / 11:45am

City Hills Church | Papermill Campus
1501 Kirby Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37909

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Sunday Services: 10:00am / 11:45am 

City Hills Church | West Campus
205 Bridgewater Rd.
Knoxville, TN 37923

 

DIGITAL PRAYER RESOURCES

FASTING RESOURCES

At City Hills, we encourage fasting for 21 days each year in the month of January. However, you may also choose to fast at other times during the year for your own spiritual development.  It’s very typical to fast a single meal, a whole day, or three days or more. The timing of your fast is not as important as the strength of your focus on Him as you fast.

 The goal of fasting is to draw nearer to God. Biblical fasting always has to do with eliminating distractions for a spiritual purpose; it hits the reset button of our soul and renews us from the inside out. It also enables us to celebrate the goodness and mercy of God and prepares our hearts for all the good things God desires to bring into our lives. Remember, your personal fast should present a level of challenge, but it is very important to know your body, your options, and, most importantly, to seek God in prayer and follow what the Holy Spirit leads you to do.

 Scripture References: 
Matthew 6:16-18 Matthew 9:14-15 Luke 18:9-14 Acts 27:33-37 Nehemiah 9:1-3
  • Getting started
  • HOW TO GET STARTED ON YOUR FAST
    Having a successful fast starts with the right preparation. It is important to choose ahead of time what type of fast, or what combination you will pursue. Not only will this help with making the necessary preparations to implement your plan, but as you commit to a specific fast ahead of time and know how you’re going to do it, you will position yourself to finish strong.

    Here are a few Easy Steps to Get Started:

    1) Set Your Objective

    Begin by deciding why you are fasting. Is it for spiritual renewal, for healing, for wisdom in a particular area, or the resolution of a specific issue? Pick the top 1-3 prayer requests or things you would like to seek God on. Don’t overwhelm yourself and make a laundry list of items. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead in deciding and clarifying your goals for fasting.

    2) Choose Your Plan

    We are all at different places in our walk with God. Likewise our jobs, daily schedules, and health conditions are all different and place various levels of demand on our energy. So most importantly, whether you’ve fasted before, or this will be your first time, prayerfully consider what your fast will look like. Your personal fast should have a high level of challenge to it, but it’s very important to know your own body, know your options, and most importantly, seek God in prayer and follow what the Holy Spirit leads you to do. Remember, the goal of fasting is not just to do without food. The goal is draw nearer to God.

    3) Choose Your Fasting Schedule

    You may choose to fast all or several days of the 21 days, such as, 3 or 4 days a week or specifically on Sundays and Wednesdays. Maybe you will do that, and end with 3 to 7 consecutive days at the end. This is your personal decision, and again should be prayerfully considered as it applies to your circumstances. Just plan ahead.

    4) Begin and Break the Fast Well

    Depending on the type of fast you choose, it is very important to prepare your body ahead of time before beginning the fast. Take a week or so to transition into your fast; otherwise, you could get sick. For example, if you would like to go on fruits and vegetables or juice fast, start eliminating meat, white grains, and refined sugars from your diet the week before. Also start to cut back quite a bit on dairy products and some of your caffeine intake.

    This same principle applies to breaking your fast. When your fast is over, add foods back very gradually. Your body will be so cleansed and detoxified. You will most likely get sick if you add too much rich foods, etc. all at once.
    There are also several websites and books that offer additional resources for spiritual growth, recipes and nutritional information to help you along the way. Here are a few that we recommend.

    Websites for Fasting Info

    DanielPlan.com
    RebootwithJoe.com
    Juicerecipes.com
    All-about-juicing.com
    JuicingwithG.com

    Books for Spiritual Growth:
    If you would like to grow in your understanding of how spiritual disciplines like fasting and prayer can help you grow spiritually, check out the following resources:

    Beginner
    The Life You’ve Always Wanted: Spiritual Disciplines for Ordinary People
    by John Ortberg

    Intermediate
    Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth
    by Richard Foster

    Advanced
    The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives
    by Dallas Willard

    Most Practical
    Fasting: Opening the Door to a Deeper, More intimate, More Powerful Relationship with God
    by Jentezen Franklin

    Important Note: Fasting requires reasonable precautions. If you have any health concerns, please consult your physician prior to beginning your fast, especially if you are taking medications, have a chronic condition or are pregnant or nursing a baby.

  • Types of Fasts
  • COMPLETE FAST
    This fast calls for drinking only liquids, typically water with light juices as an option.

    SELECTIVE FAST
    This type of fast involves removing certain elements from your diet. One example of a selective fast is the Daniel Fast, during which you remove meat, sweets, or bread from your diet and consume water and juice for fluids and fruits and vegetables for food.

    PARTIAL FAST
    This fast is sometimes called the Jewish Fast and involves abstaining from eating any type of food in the morning and afternoon. This can either correlate to specific times of the day, such as 6:00 am to 3:00 pm, or from sunup to sundown.

    SOUL FAST
    This fast is common for those who do not have much experience fasting food, who have health issues that prevent them from fasting food, or who wish to refocus certain areas of their life that are out of balance. For instance, someone might select to abstain from using social media or watching television for the duration of the fast, and then choose to carefully bring that element back into their life in an orderly fashion at the conclusion of the fast.

  • Fasting Recipes
  • Appetizers/Snacks

    Garlic Kale Chips
    1 bunch fresh kale
    Garlic powder
    Salt and pepper
    Olive oilPreheat oven to 350 degrees.
    Chop kale up into 1-inch size pieces. Spread evenly across cookie sheet. Spray lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt and pepper. Bake for 10-15 minutes until edges are lightly browned. Let cool and enjoy!

    Coconut Date Bars
    1/3 cup slivered almonds
    1/2 cup flaked coconut
    10 pitted dates, or to taste
    1/4 cup cashews, or to taste
    1 tsp. coconut oil
    Blend almonds and coconut in a food processor; add dates and pulse until combined. Add cashews and coconut oil; pulse until mixture is thick and sticks together. Transfer to a sheet of waxed paper; form into a square, folding sides of waxed paper over the top. Refrigerate until solid, at least 30 minutes.

    Healthy White Bean Dip
    1 can (15-oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
    2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
    2 Tbsp. olive oil
    1 small clove garlic, minced
    1 tsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
    1⁄8-1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
    2 Tbsp. water
    Salt and pepper, to taste
    Combine all ingredients in a food processor and process until smooth, about 1 minute. Transfer to a small bowl and serve alongside crackers, veggie chips or vegetable sticks. Enjoy!

    Black Bean Hummus
    1 clove garlic
    1 (16 oz.) can black beans, drained (reserve liquid)
    2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
    1-2 Tbsp. tahini
    1 tsp. ground cumin
    1/2 tsp. salt
    1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
    Crush garlic clove and place in food processor. Add black beans, lemon juice, tahini, cumin, salt and cayenne pepper; process until smooth.
    Add enough of the reserved liquid (1 tablespoon at a time) from the beans to reach desired consistency, pulsing after each addition.
    Serve with tortillas, crackers or sliced vegetables.
    Soups/Chili

    3-Bean Vegetarian Chili

    4 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
    4 cloves fresh garlic, chopped
    1 cup chopped onions
    2 (16 oz.) cans dark red kidney beans
    1 (16 oz.) can navy beans
    1 (16 oz.) can black beans
    2 (16 oz.) cans diced tomatoes
    1 package of chili seasoning
    In a large pot, sauté chopped garlic and onions in olive oil until tender. Drain cans of beans and add into pot. Add in both cans of diced tomatoes (do not drain.) Add in package of chili seasoning, stir and let simmer on low for 1-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

    Once chili has reached desired consistency, remove from heat and enjoy.

    Roasted Cauliflower Soup

    2 heads cauliflower, broken into florets
    Olive oil cooking spray
    1/4 cup olive oil
    1 large onion, chopped
    4 cloves garlic, chopped
    6 cups water
    Salt and ground pepper, to taste
    Place the cauliflower florets into a large bowl of lightly salted water; allow to stand for 20 minutes. Drain well, and arrange on a sheet of heavy aluminum foil on a baking sheet. Spray the olive oil cooking spray evenly on the cauliflower.
    Preheat the oven’s broiler and set the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
    Broil the cauliflower until browned, 20 to 30 minutes.Meanwhile,heat olive oil in a large soup pot,and cook the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes; stir in the garlic and roasted cauliflower. Pour in the water, season with salt and black pepper, and simmer until all the vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes. Blend the soup in the pot with an immersion hand blender until creamy and smooth.

    Winter Vegetable Soup

    3 Tbsp. olive oil
    3 leeks, white parts only, chopped
    1 sweet onion, diced
    4 cloves garlic, minced
    Kosher salt
    4 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
    1 butternut squash, peeled and chopped into half-inch dice
    8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
    2 (14 oz.) cans whole tomatoes
    2 sprigs thyme
    1 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
    2 Tbsp. fresh oregano, chopped
    1⁄2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
    1 tsp. sea salt
    2 cups fresh spinach leaves, packed
    Juice from half a lemon
    In a large stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add leeks, garlic and onion and cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add carrots and butternut squash and cook an additional 5 minutes, stirring to keep vegetables from sticking to bottom of pot.
    Pour in broth and bring soup to a boil. Add tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, oregano, pepper and salt.
    Turn heat down to low and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes. Stir in fresh spinach and lemon juice. Serve hot.

    Vegan Black Bean Soup

    1 Tbsp. olive oil
    1 large onion, chopped
    1 stalk celery, chopped
    2 carrots, chopped
    4 cloves garlic, chopped
    2 Tbsp. chili powder
    1 Tbsp. ground cumin
    1 pinch black pepper
    4 cups vegetable broth
    4 (15 oz.) cans black beans
    1 (15 oz.) can whole kernel corn
    1 (14.5 oz.) can crushed tomatoes
    Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sauté onion, celery, carrots and garlic for 5 minutes. Season with chili powder, cumin, and black pepper; cook for 1 minute. Stir in vegetable broth, 2 cans of beans, and corn. Bring to a boil.
    Meanwhile, in a food processor or blender, process remaining 2 cans beans and tomatoes until smooth. Stir into boiling soup mixture, reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 15 minutes.
    Salads/Dressings
    Avocado and Grilled Corn Salad with Cilantro Vinaigrette

    5 ears corn, husk removed, brush with olive oil and grilled, remove corn with sharp knife
    
2 avocados, diced and sprinkled with lemon juice to prevent browning
    2 cups Tomatoes, red and yellow cherry variety or equivalent
    1 small red onion, finely diced
    3⁄4 cup feta, crumbled
    1 1⁄2 cup English cucumber, skin on and chopped small dice
    Add all ingredients to a large bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.

    Quinoa Salad
    For the quinoa:

    2 cups uncooked quinoa
    4 cups water
    2 cans (15 oz.) black beans, drained
    1 bag (12 to 16 oz.) frozen white corn
    2 whole orange bell peppers
    2 whole red bell peppers
    1 bunch chopped cilantro
    For the dressing:

    1 1⁄2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
    1 tsp. black pepper
    1 tsp. kosher salt
    1⁄3 cup fresh lime juice
    1⁄3 cup olive oil
    Cook quinoa and water in a covered saucepan over medium for about 12-15 minutes. (Cook just as you would rice and follow the directions on whichever quinoa box or bag you choose to use.) Allow quinoa to cool.
    While quinoa is cooking, drain black beans in a strainer and give them a quick rinse under the faucet. Shake dry and put into a large bowl. Pat them with a paper towel to dry them out further if they are still really wet.
    Add thawed corn,finely chopped bell peppers, and chopped cilantro (about a handful or desired amount) to bowl. Again, pat dry with a paper towel if everything is too damp.
    In a second bowl whisk together dressing ingredients. Pour onto quinoa and toss. I always like to taste and add more salt/pepper and lime juice. Enjoy!
    Note: You can choose whichever color peppers you prefer.

    Cilantro Vinaigrette

    6 Tbsp. olive oil
    2 Tbsp. Sherry vinegar
    1 tsp. garlic powder
    2 Tbsp. fresh cilantro, minced
    1⁄2 tsp. salt
    10 grinds of fresh ground pepper
    Add all ingredients in a small glass jar with a lid. Shake really well. Taste and adjust seasoning and ratios of oil and vinegar as desired. When ready to serve salad, add dressing and gently toss.
    Mango and Black Bean Salad

    1 can (15 oz.) black beans, drained and rinsed
    2 cups fresh mango, diced
    1 cup sweet red bell pepper, diced
    6 green onions, thinly sliced
    1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
    1/4 cup fresh lime juice
    1 Tbsp. olive oil
    1 seeded Jalapeno pepper, minced (or hot sauce, to taste)
    Salt, to taste
    Combine ingredients in a bowl. Toss and serve.
    Grilled Veggie Salad

    Chopped leaf lettuce
    1 green bell pepper
    1 yellow bell pepper
    1 red bell pepper
    1 sweet onion
    1 Tbsp. grape seed oil
    2 Tbsp. lime juice
    3 Tbsp. olive oil
    1 garlic clove, minced
    
1/2 tsp. salt
    1/2 tsp. ground cumin
    1/2 tsp. chili powder
    1/2 jalapeno, seeded and minced
    1/4 cup chopped cilantro
    Fresh salsa of your choice
    Mix lime juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, cumin, chili powder, jalapeno and cilantro together. Chop bell peppers and onions into thin strips and place into marinade. Marinade for 30 minutes or more.
    In a cast iron skillet, heat grape seed oil on high heat for one to two minutes. Place veggies into pan evenly and cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes. This will brown the veggies. Flip veggies to other side and repeat until desired darkness.
    Place veggies onto a bed of chopped leaf lettuce and top with fresh salsa of your choice. Serve immediately and enjoy!

    Main Dishes

    Veggie Spaghetti

    2 large (32 oz.) cans crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
    4 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
    4 cloves fresh garlic (chopped)
    1 cup chopped onions
    1 package mushrooms
    1 green pepper
    2-3 zucchini
    2-3 yellow squash
    1 spaghetti squash
    Cut spaghetti squash in half length-wise. Place flat side up on a cookie sheet, sprinkle with salt and pepper and roast at 350 degrees for about 30-45 minutes (depending on the size of the squash.)
    In a large pan, sauté the chopped garlic and onions in the olive oil until tender. Add the cans of crushed tomatoes. Next, chop the green pepper, zucchini and squash to desired size and add, along with the mushrooms, into the sauce.
    Let sauce simmer until all of the veggies are cooked thoroughly. Remove spaghetti squash from the oven. To ensure it is fully cooked make sure you can shred the squash with a fork. Scoop out the seeds and finish shredding the squash with a fork (which looks like spaghetti.) Pour the sauce over the spaghetti squash and enjoy.

    Healthy Black Bean Burgers

    1 (26.5 oz.) can of black beans, rinsed well and drained
    1/4 red onion, minced
    1 garlic clove, minced
    1/2 red pepper, chopped small
    Large handful of fresh cilantro, minced
    1/2 tsp. cumin
    1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper (add more or less, as desired)
    1/2 cup cooked brown rice
    Vegan mayonnaise (for binding, if needed)
    2 Tbsp. coconut oil
    Rinse and drain black beans and then mash with a fork. You’ll want the majority of the beans broken up completely. Add all other ingredients except Coconut Oil and mix well. If the mixture isn’t moldable, add a large teaspoon of vegan mayo just so it binds all the ingredients together.
    Form the mix into individual patties. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper and refrigerate for 15 minutes (or up to an hour.) On medium heat, place 2 tablespoons coconut oil in pan. Add the patties (they can touch, but not overlay.) Sauté for about 3-5 minutes per side until crisp and browned. Work in batches. Serve immediately.

    Vegan Black Bean Quesadillas

    1 (15 oz.) can great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
    3/4 cup diced tomatoes
    1 clove garlic
    1/3 cup nutritional yeast
    1 tsp. ground cumin
    1/4 tsp. chili powder
    
Salt to taste
    1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
    1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
    1/4 cup diced tomatoes
    1 Tbsp. olive oil, or as needed
    8 whole grain tortillas
    Cooking spray
    Blend great Northern beans, 3/4 cup tomatoes, and garlic in a food processor until smooth; add nutritional yeast, cumin, chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper and blend again.
    Transfer bean mixture to a bowl. Stir black beans and 1/4 cup tomatoes into bean mixture.
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla in the hot oil. Spread about 1/4 cup filling onto the tortilla.
    Place another tortilla on top of the filling; cook until filling is warmed, about 10 minutes.
    Spray the top tortilla with cooking spray and flip quesadilla to cook the second side until lightly browned, 3 to 5 minutes. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

    Ginger Veggie Stir-Fry

    1 Tbsp. cornstarch
    1 1/2 cloves garlic, crushed
    2 tsp. chopped fresh ginger root, divided
    1/4 cup vegetable oil, divided
    1 small head broccoli, cut into florets
    1/2 cup snow peas
    3/4 cup julienned carrots
    1/2 cup halved green beans
    2 Tbsp. soy sauce
    2 1/2 Tbsp. water
    1/4 cup chopped onion
    1/2 Tbsp. salt
    In a large bowl, blend cornstarch, garlic, 1 teaspoon ginger, and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil until cornstarch is dissolved. Mix in broccoli, snow peas, carrots, and green beans, tossing to lightly coat.
    Heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Cook vegetables in oil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Stir in soy sauce and water. Mix in onion, salt, and remaining 1 teaspoon ginger. Cook until vegetables are tender but still crisp.

    Recipe Notes: Place stir-fry atop brown rice to complete this delicious meal.

    Smoothies

    Berry Green Smoothie

    1 cup unsweetened almond milk
    2 handfuls fresh spinach (or about 1 cup frozen)
    1⁄2 cup frozen blueberries
    1 cup frozen strawberries
    1⁄2 bananaAdd ice or more almond milk as desired.
    Place all items in a blender and blend until smooth.

    Coffee Banana Smoothie

    1 cup regular brewed coffee
    1 large banana
    1 Tbsp. almond butter
    1 cup almond or regular milk
    1 Tbsp. cocoa powder
    1 Tbsp. honey (optional)
    Pour coffee into ice cube tray. Freeze for two hours or overnight. Place frozen coffee ice cubes andthe rest of the ingredients into a blender. Pulse until smooth and frothy. Pour into cup and Enjoy!
    Yield: 2 servings
    5 Ingredient Fruit Smoothie

    1 scoop gluten free whey vanilla protein powder
    1 cup ice
    1 banana
    1 cup frozen mixed fruit of choice
    1 cup all natural apple juice (no sugar added)
    Combine all ingredients into blender. Blend until desired consistency. Enjoy!

    Almond Date Shake

    4 frozen bananas
    8 pitted Medjool dates
    1/2 cup all natural creamy peanut or almond butter
    2 tsp. vanilla extract
    2 cups almond milk
    7 cubes of ice (more or less, as desired)
    Blend bananas, dates, nut butter, vanilla and milk. When thoroughly combined, add ice a few cubes at a time until you reach a shake-like consistency. Enjoy!
    Yield: 4 servings

    Desserts


    Apples with Date Honey

    Apples, sliced
    Date Honey (recipe in this section)
    Toppings: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts and unsweetened shredded coconutSpread 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.

    Puffed Quinoa Peanut Butter Balls

    1 cup puffed quinoa
    1/2 cup peanut butter
    1-4 Tbsp. agave nectar
    1 Tbsp. crushed peanuts (optional, for extra crunch if using smooth peanut butter)
    1 tsp. vanilla extract
    Vegan dark chocolate (optional)
    In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, agave and vanilla. If the mixture is too firm, heat it up on the stove a little bit. Add the puffed quinoa (and peanuts, if using), and stir to combine. Place mixture in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up. Remove from fridge, roll into 12 balls, and return to fridge for 15 minutes before serving. Optional: dip some or all of the balls in dark chocolate.
    Yield: 12 servings

    Date Honey

    1 cup pitted dates (about 6-8 Medjool or 18-20 Deglet Noor)
    1 cup water
    1⁄2 tsp. cinnamon
    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 (including liquid) 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)
    Chocolate Fudge Brownie Bars

    1 cup old fashioned oats
    1 cup oat flour
    1/4 cup Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa powder
    1 tsp. ground cinnamon
    1/4 tsp. ground cardamom
    1/3 cup nuts, chopped
    1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
    1/4 cup ground flaxseed
    1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
    1 mashed banana
    1/2 cup date syrup
    1/2 cup peanut butter (no sugar), slightly melted
    Mix the applesauce, mashed banana, date syrup, and peanut butter in one bowl. Mix the dry ingredients in another bowl. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Press into 8×8 and bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  • Daniel Fast Sample Menus
  • The concept of a Daniel fast comes from Daniel 1:8-14, “But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel, but the official told Daniel, ‘I am afraid of my lord the king, who has assigned your food and drink. Why should he see you looking worse than the other young men your age? The king would then have my head because of you.’

    Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, ‘Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then compare our appearance with that of the young men who eat the royal food, and treat your servants in accordance with what you see.’ So he agreed to this and tested them for ten days.”

    The background of the Daniel fast is that Daniel and his three friends had been deported to Babylon when Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians conquered Judah (2 Kings 24:13-14). Daniel and his three friends were put into the Babylonian court servant “training program.” Part of the program was learning Babylonian customs, beliefs, laws, and practices. The eating habits of the Babylonians were not in complete agreement with the Mosaic Law. As a result, Daniel asked if he and his three friends could be excused from eating the meat (which was likely sacrificed to Babylonian false gods and idols).

    So, a Daniel fast is eating only fruits and vegetables for a certain amount of time and abstaining from meat products. Some people use a Daniel fast instead of fasting from food entirely.

    Here is a sample menu for someone who would like to try the Daniel Fast.

    Breakfast
    Fruits, Vegetables, Juices and Water Fruit smoothie with whey protein

    Mid-morning Snack
    Fresh fruit or fresh vegetables

    Lunch
    Raw vegetable salad with light, organic dressing and vegetable broth soup

    Mid-afternoon Snack
    Fresh fruit or fresh vegetables

    Dinner
    Fresh salad with light, organic dressing and steamed or grilled vegetables

    Water
    Drink plenty of water – at least 100 ounces

    Modified Daniel Fast

    Breakfast
    1-2 servings of whole grains with fresh fruit juice

    Mid-morning Snack
    Fresh fruit or fresh chopped vegetables

    Lunch
    1-2 servings of whole grains: fresh salad with legumes and light organic dressing

    Mid-afternoon Snack
    Fresh fruit juice or fruit smoothie with whey protein

    Dinner
    1-2 whole grains: fresh salad with legumes & light, organic dressing

    Water
    Drink plenty of water – at least 100 ounces

  • Kids Fasting Resources
  • How to Explain Fasting to Kids

    An easy way to explain the benefits of prayer and fasting to kids is to compare it to cleaning out old toys that might no longer work, or that they might have outgrown, to make room for new ones. As we clean out our bodies and make time to connect closer to God and His Word, we make room to receive new gifts from Him.

    Kids Fasting How-To’s

    We do not recommend that children skip meals or drastically reduce their food intake, but a modification of their diet might prove to be an easy place to start. For example, fasting from specific items such as sweets, red meats, fried foods or even introducing a form of the Daniel fast which includes legumes, nuts and whole grains is a great way for children to participate in a safe and healthy way.*

    Another great way to fast is by reducing some of the time and energy spent watching TV, playing video games, using the computer or phone, and instead choosing to spend time praying, reading their Bible or serving others.

    Refer to our “Sample Fasting Calendar for Kids” as an additional resource for you and your kids during the fasting season.

    The main thing is for kids to recognize the value behind setting aside special times to disconnect from some of the extra-curricular activities and treats they enjoy on a regular basis and learn how to connect to God in a closer way. Write down a few prayer requests and pray together for those things throughout the fast.

    *Please note, you should always check with your child’s pediatrician before your child(ren) begin any type of fasting.

    You may add your prayer request to our prayer wall using the form below. Once your prayer request is received, we will share it according to your instructions. Feel free to submit as many prayer requests as you like!


    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 13 times.

    Anonymous

    My grandfather, my Opa in Germany has been battling a nerve disease where his entire body is inflamed and in pain. He's had the nerve issue for years but it's really gone down hill fast in 2023. Now he can't move, he can't talk or do anything anymore for himself. He is very much still there mentally. We've been told it is something worse than Parkinson's, but the doctors just keep doing tests to no avail. Please pray for my grandmother, my Oma, his wife of ~60 years, please pray for her strength as she continues to help care for him while he's in hospice. Please pray for my mother who can't be in Germany as she lives and works in Georgia and can't stay long in Germany when she goes, pray that she gets the comfort she needs while her father suffers and her mother is all alone during this time.

    Overall, I pray that my Opa's pain and suffering end and for strength for my Oma.

    Also, please pray that my husband and I make it to Germany in the spring to be with my Oma for her 81st birthday.

    Thank you!

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 15 times.

    Anonymous

    Prayer for my boyfriend that he finds peace through struggle right now. And guidance to what career God is calling him to.

    Prayer for family, for good health, safety, and help with financial issues as well as having my dad find God and for him to build a relationship with God. And for my mom to find a wonderful job that she will love.

    Prayer for strength and prosperity to continue with college and knowing that I am smart enough to continue.

    Prayer for this world, prayer for peace and prosperity. Healing to all the wars happening right now. I pray that everyone becomes united instead of separated.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 15 times.

    Laran

    Praying for a financial breakthrough. Praying to be debt free this year so that I can provide for mother.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 17 times.

    Paul Smith

    Please pray for a 2 yr old boy I know. He has some blood areas that are surfacing all over his body, in the form of what can best be described as bloody bruises. He went to Children’s Hospital in Knoxville on Monday night. They have referred him to a specialist. Please pray for the Master Physician to intervene and touch him while the best of earthly doctors care for him.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 18 times.

    Anonymous

    That God provides $10K+ this month and every month after, through clients, opportunities, etc.

    That at least half of that provision comes in by next week at the latest.

    That we hear and obey God’s voice.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 15 times.

    Cleveland and Dee Harville

    Please pray that my husband and I will continue to grow in our faith and relationship with the Lord. We have recently moved to Tennessee and are in need of a home. Please pray that we find land to build a home for our family.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 18 times.

    Anonymous

    I pray for a closer relationship with God and that he gives me comfort and patience in the career path that I am being lead to and have faith that it will all work out for His plan.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Anonymous

    1. I am believing God for salvation for my mother, she is 93 and does not believe in Jesus as God and Lord. She is bound by new age philosophy and spiritualism doctrines.

    2. I am believing God for full healing of my daughter from depression, anxiety and insomnia. For God to renew her mind and heart and give her enduring peace.

    3. I am believing God for the full healing of my wife from physical pain, neuropathy and also from depression and anxiety. Renewing of her mind and enduring peace.

    4. I am believing God for inspiration, wisdom and skills to be able to write and publish my first book, as the base of my passion business. For God to be glorified in that business and the people that it will help. I am also believing God for a strong outpouring of His anointing and Holy Spirit over me, my daughter and my wife.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Anonymous

    That God will heal me from whatever this illness that I have is.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Montaye

    Please guard, guide and protect my thoughts today as I get up in pain and continue as I know that Your will be done each day. In Jesus name I pray amen.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 19 times.

    Anonymous

    My husband and I are believing God for a baby after a miscarriage! Pray that we would be able to get pregnant and raise this baby to love God, love people, and change the world!

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 13 times.

    Kendedrick

    I am praying for total debt elimination through God’s faithfulness and my obedience through stewardship so that I will have more to help others.

    I am praying to finish my dissertation this year and for God to plant me where he wants me.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 13 times.

    Anonymous

    May my family and loved ones be touched by the Holy Spirit and healing continue. I ask for wisdom in leading at work that we as a team may all find success.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 12 times.

    Halley Scott

    One of my dear friends 4 year old little boy was diagnosed with cancer last week and began Chemo treatments yesterday morning. Just a few days later, my best friend was in a bad car accident and life flighted to MUSC, she has MANY broken bones and awaiting surgery today. 4 others from the wreck are also in the hospital and someone from the other vehicle did pass on to be with Jesus. This is all happening in Charleston, SC where we just moved from. I feel guilty I am not there to help. Please pray for the supernatural healing that only the Holy Spirit can bring to them.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Karen Emerson

    I’m praying and believing for generational curses to be broken. Healing and mending hard hearts. Eyes opened to the enemy.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 12 times.

    Anonymous

    That God would restore a friendship authentically. A dear friend hurt me pretty badly. I have shared my hurt with her and things are suppose to be okay but it just does not feel the same. I am not upset but I think maybe disappointed in the response once I shared my hurt. I love her dearly but it still hurts and I don't know how to feel emotionally safe with the person although I know she is a wonderful person. I am praying God will restore and our bond will be stronger and more authentic and deeply rooted.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 15 times.

    Anonymous

    I’m needing prayers for my husband and my children. We are broken and desperate… my husband and I argue all the time intensely… it has affected my daughter in the most horrible way. Please pray over my family my marriage my children.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 16 times.

    Sarah

    My bold prayer is that God will lead me down the path I need to go for the next step in my career.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 13 times.

    Heather Collier

    God I am asking you to heal myself and all of my family in Jesus name! Guide, gaurd and direct our thoughts and our actions! Lead us Where you want us Lord.. we give our lives to you! Thank you Jesus! Thank you for healing my hip! In Jesus name!

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 18 times.

    Mark Browne

    My buddy’s father-in-law is in the final stages of Alzheimer’s and going into hospice. Please pray for peace and comfort as he makes the transition to his heavenly home.

    Received: January 9, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 16 times.

    Rebecca

    Please pray for my husband to seek the lord after his affair. That he can be happy and in love with me once again. That he will make our marriage his top priority. We have five children. They need their father. Please pray that Satan releases his hold on him. Pray that his councilor can help him. That he can cut his soul ties with other woman. Please pray that my husband will stop drinking and release his overwhelming guilt. That he will continue to live with us and repair our marriage. We love him. We love the Lord. We feel Satan is attacking our family.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 21 times.

    Anonymous

    I have a bold prayer, to have peace and unity in our country and throughout the world. I pray that we stop judging others, and welcome all God's children equally. I pray that hate and bigotry will find no home here and that people share kindess with each other. I pray that children will longer suffer the travails of war and hate and hunger, that peace and stability will come to those who don't have it.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 16 times.

    Anonymous

    Praying for guidance - while I am blessed successful with my career - I am at the crossroad on which take to turn - between continuing serving in church and/or provide comfort/companionship to my wife who is dealing with mother's health issue.

    I don't want to feel bad for not serving enough at church while I can spend valuable,meaninful time with wife on weekend because we have busy schedules.

    I need to balance this and not feel guilty.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 19 times.

    Debra Fergerson

    Please pray for my husband who is back in the hospital. He had surgery of colon cancer and he is been in & out of the hospital since fall 2023.

    Praying for a cure, stabilize his body & strength.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Anthony roberts

    Protection from hurt harm and danger

    Finances

    Breakthrough

    Healing

    Salvation

    Favor from god

    Relationships

    Home

    Car

    Lead many to Jesus Christ

    Wisdom/knowledge

    Long life

    Family

    Kids

    Marriage

    Exceedingly abundantly above can ask or think

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 15 times.

    Merrell

    Physical and internal healing over my family.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 13 times.

    Shelli Richart

    Friends of mine- for their 11 yr old cousin who passed away! The funeral is today! A sound mind, peace, love, comfort !

    My son’s health, school, a sound mind, good decisions, closer to God, relationship

    For a friend, protection from the enemy in every way! A sound mind and long life!

    Break the chain of addiction in all my kids and family members

    Unspoken friends who need healing from active addiction, addictive behaviors without the use of a substance, finances, healing in their bodies, minds, souls and all to draw in to the ways of God and not the world!

    All City Hills leadership for guidance of the Holy Spirit!

    City Hills students winter retreat that the Holy Spirt move in a new and full way! Protection for them from all hurt harm and danger!

    Cancel the Spirit of fear for all above and throughout City Hills! We have overcome fear, anxiety and worry!

    We have the fullness of God and the fruits of the spirit!

    A pregnancy, health for mom and baby and a sound mind for mom and visions of the truth!

    A hedge of protection for all marriages to be built and strengthened by God! In Jesus name!

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Anonymous

    I just pray and ask God for more patience and to guide me through everything and throughout these 21 days of prayer! I want to just grow closer to God and remain trusting him and his timing. I want a God sent man but to grow together but only on Gods time.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 20 times.

    Jana

    I have been working 3 jobs for over 3 years holding on tightly to one. This year I am holding my hands open on all of them. I am believing God for one that will provide abundantly and allow me to be the Mom, Grandma, friend, employee that God has designed me to be. Praying for wisdom and guidance as to what that might be.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 17 times.

    Anonymous

    Lower back pain that I have been dealing with off and on for over a year now.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 17 times.

    Anonymous

    I want to make an impact in some way on the lives of others, and find my purpose. I sometimes feel that I fall short of that and am just going through the motions.

    I have this image of me writing a book in my head, to share about my experience and the current season of life I am walking through. It seems like a big task and I have no idea where to start.

    I also want my husband and I to continue to grow closer to God together.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 12 times.

    Anonymous

    That God provides $10K+ this month and every month after, through clients, opportunities, etc.

    That we hear and obey God’s voice.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 20 times.

    Allison

    Praying for my brother to stop fighting the existence of God and to be moved and filled with the Holy Spirit.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 12 times.

    Linda Kondrit

    I want the passion and the strength of the Lord in my life. I want to have supernatural super powers and to be able to have the faith to remove mountains not only in my life but in thise who seek prayer. I pray for strength in my relationships. My family to be overcome by the Lord and passion for Him ignited again. Healing in my body. I pray my right arm will be relieved if pain and strengthened. I pray healing frim this illness I have in my sinuses and lungs to be lifted. I pray no one in my family will get ill from my germs. I pray protection over my family, that their immune system would be strengthened buy not suffer the symptoms if illness.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 19 times.

    Heather Collier

    God I am coming to you for my little cousin. He’s in desperate need of a liver transplant. I KNOW you can heal him Lord! We believe your word and your report! Thank you for healing, comfort and peace during this time! Keep your loving arms around him and his family! Thank you for your healing! In Jesus name!

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Anonymous

    - career guidance and direction for my boyfriend

    - my brother’s willingness and dedication with his walk with Christ

    - my grad school season

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Mark Browne

    A friend of my sons is going thru an unexpected divorce after his wife was unfaithful and they have an 8 month old child. Pray for strength and healing for him as he navigates thru this difficult journey.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 12 times.

    Heather Collier

    Lord I’m asking you to guide my family! Let our kids be a light for you! Show us our next step God! Please continue to mold us into the children you designed us to be! Heal my body Lord! Let us continue to grow closer to you God! Thank you for all of your grace and blessings in our life!! Thank you Jesus

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 12 times.

    Mark Browne

    Praying for my sons to know God more and confirm their salvation

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 15 times.

    Mandy

    My husband lost his job in October and has still been unable to find a new one. I work part-time, but my own health is making even that difficult. Please pray for my family and for God's direction.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 13 times.

    Anonymous

    Healing and restoration. That God will completely remove cancer from my body and that I will be restored as if it never existed in my body. Psalm 91

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 12 times.

    Jaclyn

    First off I want to praise the Lord. During 21 Days of Prayer in August On day 2 God blessed us with a brand new car! So I know He can do miracles

    My family has been dealing with head colds since school started. As soon as one of us is healthy another gets sick! I need this chain broken. My youngest is 4 and had RSV in November. He came down sick again Wednesday night and tonight has been horrible. Please pray for healing in all of my family. As a mother I am running on empty.

    Received: January 8, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 11 times.

    Anonymous

    Clarity and direction in all aspects of my life.

    First, foremost, a closer relationship with Him.

    Received: January 7, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 13 times.

    Sharon Flowers

    To be filled daily with the Holy Spirt. I desire a total breakthrough in a personal relationship with God. I want to enrich my walk with Jesus Christ. I want to hear His voice more clearly and learn to obey His desires for me. I want to love more deeply. I want Jesus to bless my family and draw them closer to Himself. I want God to use me to bring others to Him. To be a shining light in this dark world!

    Received: January 7, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 15 times.

    Emily Borghi

    My 24 year old nephew to be free from addiction and surrender his life fully to God. And that God would use His testimony to reach many.

    Received: January 7, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 14 times.

    Heather collier

    Lord I am coming to you with bold prayers! I normally don’t pray for myself but today I am asking you to heal my hip! I’m 42 and the drs are telling me I am going to have to have a hip replacement to be out of pain and be able to walk normal but I KNOW you can heal me from the inside out and I thank you for that Jesus! Thank you for all you have done in and around my life and all you are about to do! Thank you Jesus! Amen

    Received: January 7, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 13 times.

    Anonymous

    We have been visiting City Hills for a couple of months now. I want to get involved in a small group my husband isn't interested at this time. I want to attend a next steps meeting my husband doesn't. Lord do I wait or do I explore groups and next steps alone? I long for community Lord but don't want to rush into anything if it isn't time. Have your way with us both Lord have your way!

    Received: January 6, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 16 times.

    Anonymous

    My life has taken a major change in health in the past six months.

    I asked the lord for guidance.

    I asked the church to pray for me to hear his word.

    The evil one is trying to destroy in my mindset.

    We call it anxiety depression, Physically I have heart problems!

    I'm under medical care, but I need a person to help me with decision-making.

    Having had an acute head injury that has been a problem for me.

    I love the lord with all my heart. MY HEART ️ hurts.

    Thank you for your prayers and encouraging words!

    Received: January 5, 2024

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 26 times.

    Jodi Moll

    A friend of my family's home has been struck with the flu BAD. Their son, age 8 was in the bathtub last night when he was found unresponsive. He suffered a seizure and is in the PICU. Please help me pray for this family. Lord, wrap your healing arms around them all.

    Received: December 12, 2023

    I prayed for this

    Prayed for 19 times.

    Sadonna Scarlett

    Please church family, pray for my Uncle. His numbers are up despite the chemo treatment. He is just in his fifties. He is more than an uncle to me...he is a friend. His wife (my aunt) retired today due to this news. We are praying for a Christmas Miracle. Please pray. God bless you

    Received: December 11, 2023

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