A few weeks back we taught a series called Small Things Big Difference. Small things make a big difference. Much of the Christian life is about small things. Matthew 25: 34-36 says,”Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” There is nothing there about the grand, great or the spectacular. It is more about the little things.
Many people begin the Daniel Fast by simply trying a new health habit, just one small thing. They decided to start the day with breakfast, or add more veggies to their meals, or take a brisk walk each day, or invite a friend to work out. Small steps, yes. But they began to see surprising life change. Simple changes started to add up. Small steps took them closer to realizing their big dreams.
A gradual approach is the surest way to success. Trying to change everything at once almost inevitably invites disappointment. Don’t try to change dozens of unhealthy habits at once. Start with a few vital behaviors — the ones that will “have the biggest immediate impact” — and go from there. Here are a few small steps to try if you haven’t incorporated them yet:
- Set a goal in faith to take time in God’s Word and be refreshed by His promises.
- Start walking with friends.
- Eat breakfast every day.
- Eat some protein with every meal.
- Drink water. Half your body weight in ounces.
- Pray before your meals.
- Try a new aerobic activity.
A key to The Daniel Fast is remembering that small steps lead to big results. This week, tell a friend or your Daniel Fast group about one small-step or positive outcome you have experienced.
Discussion Questions:
- Take the time to consider what small things can make a big difference in your fasting.
- From that list add one step each week to your new healthy lifestyle during the fast.
- Ask God to remind you that your strength comes from Him and that any small step toward better health is a step that will honor God.