Scripture – ““When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Matthew 6:16-18 NIV
Observation – Jesus says, When you fast…” which indicates that he expected that we would fast. He didn’t say, “If you fast…” which would make it optional. I’ve heard it said that fasting is giving up an important physical need for a more important spiritual need and, during the time you are fasting, praying and asking God to get involved. Jesus instructs us to not tell anyone we are fasting or make a big deal out of it. If we disfigure our faces to show people that we have been fasting, they will be impressed with our spirituality and that is our reward, impressing people. If we keep it between God and us he will reward us.
Application – Fasting is difficult and while we have hunger pains it reminds us why we are fasting. We want God to show up in a specific situation and change what we think is happening, or what might happen, if things continue moving in a particular direction. This is an intimate time between a person and God because he tells us not to let other people know about our fast. This bonds us with God and draws us into a deeper relationship with him. Some people fast from alcohol for a season or technology. It seems that any type of sacrifice done with the intent of pleasing God and getting closer to him is a beautiful thing to do, just remember to keep it between God and you so that you don’t trade a heavenly reward for an earthly one.
Prayer – Lord you say that everyone who comes to you must believe that you exist and reward those who seek you. I pray that you show up in a big way for everyone who chooses to draw closer to you today. Amen.
What are you doing? Do it better 