Topic: KEYS FOR FASTING AND TREASURES
Text: Matthew 6:16-21
6:16 ”Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites,with a sad countenance, For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
6:17 ”But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,
6:18 ”So that you do not appear to men to be fasting but to your Father who (is) in the secret (place) and your father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
6:19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal;
6:20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
STUDY:
Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day in Lent. In our text. Christians are told what they should avoid when fasting. First, they should not have a sad countenance or disfigure their faces to attract attention. A Christian who fasts, should appear as natural as possible such that people will not know that he/she is fasting. This is because God who sees in secret wvill reivard such a person openly. Again, Jesus warns against fasting to be seen by others. Fasting should be done as secretly and quietly as possible. A fasting that attracts human attention loses divine acceptance.
Christ also warns against accumulating earthly treasures but commands Christians to lay up their treasures in Heaven where such treasures cannot be destroyed or stolen. Many people strive to be wealthy and acquire as much properties as possible on earth. Such people set their minds on earthly things. However, every serious Christian should lay up his treasures in Heaven by supporting the work of God, engaging in evangelism, helping the less-privileged, etc. In so doing, you will build up your bank account in Heaven. You can start today.
Prayer:
Lord, please help me to fast correctly and lay my treasures in Heaven. Amen.
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