Schedule | - 2:55 pm
A Time Set Apart: May 3rd–24th
The Fast of Daniel is a time for those who desire to draw closer to God. It is based on the example set forth by the prophet Daniel, as found in the biblical book of Daniel.
For three weeks, Daniel fasted to deepen his relationship with God and to receive favor, wisdom, and understanding from Him. He abstained from pleasurable foods and the behavior and mindset associated with Babylon. This city embodies the spirit of the world, which is often marred by sin.
While Daniel was inevitably in Babylon, a place that symbolizes spiritual impurity, he chose not to conform to it. This reflects our own situation in today’s world, where we are often surrounded by influences that contradict God’s will and purpose. As 1 Peter 2:11 reminds us, we are “sojourners and pilgrims” on our journey toward the Kingdom of Heaven—this world is not our permanent home.
If you aspire to live with God for all eternity, why not begin living as a citizen of Heaven here on Earth? It is inconsistent to express a desire for the Divine Kingdom while living contrary to it in the present time.
Salvation through the Lord Jesus is a result of the choices we make during our earthly life. After this life, the destiny of our souls will be determined eternally.
Thus, the Fast of Daniel serves as a time for self-evaluation, encouraging participants to reflect on their spiritual condition, abandon practices and thoughts that are not in line with biblical teachings, and draw closer to God. In essence, it is a step toward continuous sanctification.
For this purpose, it is vital to minimize worldly distractions, which often come from media, social networks, and other noisy environments. In this quieter space, only God’s voice and our conscience can be heard.
The Bible states:
And every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world. (1 John 4:3)
The primary purpose of the Fast of Daniel is to receive the Holy Spirit (or to maintain His presence within us, as stated in 1 Corinthians 6:19). The Word of God says:
Can two walk together, except they be agreed? (Amos 3:3)
How can the Holy Spirit dwell in us if we do not agree with Him?
Therefore, the Holy Spirit resides in those who are submissive to His voice, putting Him first in their lives. To achieve this, it is essential to “clean house,” being sincere before God, and if necessary, to build an altar within ourselves, piece by piece. The 21 days of the Fast of Daniel serve this purpose.
In summary, the Fast of Daniel is an opportunity to deepen your relationship with God, whether you are starting anew or seeking to strengthen your relationship with Him.
• For 21 days, abstain from secular entertainment, music, and news. Just as Daniel refrained from delicacies, you will avoid consuming content that is pleasurable to the flesh.
• Connect with God by meditating on the Bible and praying more frequently. During June, we are meditating on the Book of Psalms.
• Give up social media during this period unless it’s work-related. If you need social media for work, restrict your use to professional purposes only. Focus instead on activities that will enhance your connection with God and prepare you to receive the Holy Spirit.
• Participate in as many days as possible of church services. The Universal Church is open daily with services every day. You may text 1-888-312-4141 for more information.
We suggest the Universal Online Radio app available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. You may also visit the Universal Online Radio Web App by clicking here.
Connect with God by reading and meditating on the Bible more often. In addition, consider reading a blog or a book that nurtures your faith while reflecting on the Bible references mentioned there. Some Suggestions:
• Book: In the Footsteps of Jesus
• Book: The Holy Spirit
• Book: The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
• Book: Here I Am, Lord!
You may join Bishop Bira Joshua’s Official Telegram Channel for daily video messages and prayers of faith.
On ULFN, we recommend viewing any of the following:
During this fast, you may watch films, series, and documentaries that promote a closer relationship with God. Consider also selecting content available on the Univer Video platform that carries a message of faith and keeps you aligned with your purpose during the Fast of Daniel.
However, be careful to spend only some of your time watching videos. Do not occupy all your time watching videos or listening to Christian music. The goal of this fast is for you to build a stronger relationship with God.
Although the prophet Daniel also observed dietary restrictions, we must not lose sight of the central objective: pursuing communion with God and distancing from worldly influences. More than a physical fast, it is a spiritual fast.
In today’s world, where information is highly valued (often paid for with our time and money), it becomes a kind of “food” for our souls. Therefore, an “information fast” is also a kind of fast.
The goal of the Fast of Daniel is to nourish your soul with what comes from Above, and God’s raw building material: His Word.
The Fast of Daniel will begin Sunday, May 3rd, and will be completed on Pentecost Sunday, May 24th. In addition to the Sunday service at 10 AM, there are special meetings every Wednesday at 10 AM, 4 PM, and 7 PM. These meetings are designed to strengthen our spiritual lives and seek the Holy Spirit.
Everyone is welcome, regardless of religious beliefs or background. Come as you are. For more information, please call 1-888-332-4141 or text 1-888-312-4141.
If you live in a city without one of our locations or cannot commute due to health reasons, we invite you to join our Virtual Church via Zoom and phone conference.
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