Purpose in Fasting

Week 14 Day 3 Matthew 6:16-18 16"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 17But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18so that it will not be obvious to men 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. As important as the rest of the passage are the first three words. Notice it says When you fast. Not if you fast. As much as we like to put our own spiritual troubles on other people, we are responsible for our own faith. And so it is with fasting. We fast to take this break from our earthly things and to grow closer to God. Fasting is not a spiritual badge of honor. It’s not about how long you fast but about setting time aside to seriously seek God. It is for our own personal relationship and as this passage shows, is not for recognition from others. It’s as simple as that.

Reflection Questions

1. Think about the first three words here, “when you fast.” Is fasting something you have practiced before? Something you plan on doing? Something you have questions about or need to learn more? 2. In any of your spiritual disciplines, do you notice when you begin to do things for other people rather than for your own relationship with God? What can you/do you do when that happens?

Take the Next Step

Is fasting a part of your life? If you have concerns, questions and thoughts God wants you to wrestle with them! Talk to your church leaders, a friend, grab a book, or work through this week. But God wants you to work though them and do these things because they all improve your relationship with him and your service and love here on earth. The purpose is to come to know that nothing of this world will master me!