{"id":351342,"date":"2026-04-30T14:55:42","date_gmt":"2026-04-30T18:55:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/?p=351342"},"modified":"2026-04-30T17:16:40","modified_gmt":"2026-04-30T21:16:40","slug":"how-to-participate-in-the-fast-of-daniel-a-21-day-journey-of-sanctification","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/post\/how-to-participate-in-the-fast-of-daniel-a-21-day-journey-of-sanctification\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Participate in the Fast of Daniel: A 21-Day Journey of Sanctification"},"content":{"rendered":"

 <\/p>\n

Between May 3rd and 24th<\/strong>, the Fast of Daniel<\/a> <\/span>will take place throughout The Universal Church<\/a><\/span>. During these 21 days, our focus will be on heeding God’s voice and seeking the Holy Spirit.<\/strong><\/big><\/div>\n

 
\n <\/p>\n

What is the Fast of Daniel? A Biblical Example of Separation<\/strong><\/h4>\n

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<\/strong>, as found in the biblical book of Daniel.<\/p>\n

For three weeks, Daniel fasted to deepen his relationship with God<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

While Daniel was inevitably in Babylon, a place that symbolizes spiritual impurity, he chose not to conform to it<\/strong>. This reflects our own situation in today\u2019s world, where we are often surrounded by influences that contradict God\u2019s will and purpose. As 1 Peter 2:11<\/strong> reminds us, we are “sojourners and pilgrims”<\/strong><\/em> on our journey toward the Kingdom of Heaven\u2014this world is not our permanent home.
\n 
\n <\/p>\n

Why Participate in the Fast of Daniel? A Call to Live as a Citizen of Heaven<\/strong><\/h4>\n

If you aspire to live with God for all eternity, why not begin living as a citizen of Heaven here on Earth?<\/strong> It is inconsistent to express a desire for the Divine Kingdom while living contrary to it in the present time.<\/p>\n

Salvation through the Lord Jesus<\/strong> is a result of the choices we make during our earthly life. After this life, the destiny of our souls will be determined eternally.
\n 
\n <\/p>\n

A Time for Reflection and Spiritual Alignment<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Thus, the Fast of Daniel<\/strong> serves as a time for self-evaluation, encouraging participants to reflect on their spiritual condition<\/strong>, abandon practices and thoughts that are not in line with biblical teachings, and draw closer to God<\/strong>. In essence, it is a step toward continuous sanctification.<\/p>\n

For this purpose, it is vital to minimize worldly distractions,<\/strong>\u00a0which often come from media, social networks, and other noisy environments. In this quieter space, only God’s voice and our conscience<\/strong> can be heard.<\/p>\n

The Bible states:
\n <\/p>\n

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)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

 
\n 
\n <\/p>\n

What Is the Objective? Seeking and Maintaining the Holy Spirit<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The primary purpose of the Fast of Daniel<\/a><\/span> 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:
\n <\/p>\n

Can two walk together, except they be agreed? (Amos 3:3)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

 
\nHow can the Holy Spirit<\/strong> dwell in us if we do not agree with Him?<\/p>\n

Therefore, the Holy Spirit resides in those who are submissive to His voice<\/strong>, 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<\/strong> serve this purpose.<\/p>\n

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.
\n 
\n <\/p>\n

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Do the Fast of Daniel<\/strong><\/h4>\n

\u2022 For 21 days, abstain from secular entertainment, music, and news.<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0Just as Daniel refrained from delicacies, you will avoid consuming content that is pleasurable to the flesh.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022 Connect with God by meditating on the Bible and praying more frequently.<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0During June, we are meditating on the Book of Psalms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022 Give up social media during this period unless it\u2019s work-related.<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0If 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022 Participate in as many days as possible of church services.<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0The Universal Church<\/a><\/span> is open daily with services every day. You may text 1-888-312-4141 for more information.<\/span><\/p>\n

 
\n <\/p>\n

Suggested Listening<\/strong><\/h4>\n

We suggest the Universal Online Radio<\/a><\/span> app available on the Google Play Store<\/a> and Apple App Store<\/a><\/span>. You may also visit the Universal Online Radio Web App by clicking here.<\/a><\/span>
\n 
\n <\/p>\n

Suggested Readings<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Connect with God by reading and meditating on the Bible<\/strong> 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:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"The\u2022 Bishop Macedo’s Blog<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u2022 Bishop Bira Joshua’s Blog<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u2022 Book: In the Footsteps of Jesus<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u2022 Book: The Holy Spirit<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u2022 Book: The Ministry of the Holy Spirit<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2022 Book: Here I Am, Lord!<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

 
\n <\/p>\n

Suggested Viewing<\/strong><\/h4>\n

You may join Bishop Bira Joshua\u2019s Official Telegram Channel<\/a><\/span> for daily video messages and prayers of faith.<\/p>\n

On ULFN<\/a><\/span>, we recommend viewing any of the following:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Showdown of Faith<\/a>
\n<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u2022 Psalms in Concert<\/em><\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

\u2022 The Unseen Enemy<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u2022 The Spiritual Journey<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u2022 Ask the Pastor<\/a><\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

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<\/a><\/span> that carries a message of faith and keeps you aligned with your purpose during the Fast of Daniel.<\/p>\n

However, be careful to spend only some of your time watching videos.\u00a0<\/strong>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.
\n 
\n <\/p>\n

Is the Fast of Daniel a Food Fast? A Spiritual Fast Beyond Food<\/strong><\/h4>\n

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<\/strong>. More than a physical fast, it is a spiritual fast.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/strong>
\n 
\n <\/p>\n

Fast of Daniel<\/strong><\/h4>\n

The Fast of Daniel will begin Sunday, May 3rd<\/strong>, and will be completed on Pentecost Sunday, May 24th<\/span><\/a><\/span>. In addition to the Sunday service at 10 AM<\/strong>, there are special meetings every Wednesday at 10 AM, 4 PM, and 7 PM<\/strong>. These meetings are designed to strengthen our spiritual lives and seek the Holy Spirit.<\/p>\n

Everyone is welcome, regardless of religious beliefs or background. <\/span>Come as you are. <\/span><\/strong>For more information, please call\u00a01-888-332-4141<\/a> <\/span>or text\u00a01-888-312-4141<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Click Here for Nationwide Locations of the Universal Church<\/a><\/div>\n
Call 1-888-332-4141 for More Information<\/a><\/div>\n

 
\nIf you live in a city without one of our locations<\/strong> or cannot commute due to health reasons, we invite you to join our\u00a0<\/span>Virtual Church<\/a><\/span> via Zoom and phone conference<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Click Here for more information on the Virtual Church<\/a><\/div>\n

 
\n 
\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

  Between May 3rd and 24th, the Fast of Daniel will take place throughout The Universal Church. During these 21 days, our focus will be on heeding God’s voice and seeking the Holy Spirit.     What is the Fast of Daniel? A Biblical Example of Separation The Fast of Daniel is a time for […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":248,"featured_media":351349,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[323,12],"tags":[6214,6121],"site":[],"class_list":["post-351342","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-school-of-faith","category-fast-of-daniel","tag-21-days","tag-the-holy-spirit"],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/351342","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/248"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=351342"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/351342\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":351357,"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/351342\/revisions\/351357"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/351349"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=351342"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=351342"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=351342"},{"taxonomy":"site","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/universalchurchusa.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/site?post=351342"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}