TOPIC: ATTENTION FROM MEN OR GOD?
TEXT: Matthew 6:16-18(NKJV)
- 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.
STUDY:
Today’s passage does not condemn fasting as a spiritual tool because it starts with the phrase, ‘when you fast…’ Fasting should not be done in hypocrisy-to show spiritual prowess. Anyone who fasts to receive the applause of men has fully received his reward. Fasting done to fulfil all righteousness is also futile.
This is the case in Zechariah 7:1ff when the Israelites asked God whether they would continue their routine fast which they had done for seventy years since they returned from exile. Surprisingly, God told them that they had not been fasting unto him. So, it is possible to fast routinely for seventy years and not attract the attention of heaven. True believers should therefore fast to bring the flesh under control and get closer to God.
It should be an exercise between man and God and not for public advertisement. Jesus also taught that fasting is a tool to gain victory over some levels of demonic challenges (Matt. 17:21).
Examine yourself. What is your motive for engaging in fasting? Remember that the personality you seek to please will be the one to reward you. If you seek to please men, they will applaud you.
If your motive is to glorify God, He will respond positively to the desires of your heart. Start fasting;do it correctly and heaven will visit your closet.
PRAYER:
Dear Father, please help me to learn to fast to your glory, Amen!
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