20150817 WHEN YOU FAST

WHEN YOU FAST

Matthew 6:16-18  "And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get.  (17)  But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face.  (18)  Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.

Thayer Definition:

1) to abstain as a religious exercise from food and drink: either entirely, if the fast lasted but a single day, or from customary and choice nourishment, if it continued several days

Again we see the word, “when” instead of “if,” meaning God intends for us to fast. He also intends it to be done with the right attitude and for the right reasons. A detailed study of the subject, which I won’t go into here, seems to suggest that fasting makes the following statement; “God, I want You more than I want the food it takes to sustain my life. I need Your answers above my own reasoning.” Throughout the scripture people fasted for various reasons. David fasted hoping God would spare the life of Bathsheba’s first child. Esther and her friends fasted when she prepared to go in and approach the king to try to save her people. Jesus fasted before beginning His earthly ministry. There are many other examples for us throughout God’s Word.

The point that Jesus is making here is that we are to fast and we are to do it secretly. We are not to boast about it, nor make a show by refusing to bathe or by wearing a long mournful face. Nor are we to sit around the dinner table groaning as someone else takes each bite. While fasting it is a great idea to take meal times and pray. Use that time you normally use eating to spend time with your Heavenly Father.

It is interesting to note the word, “reward” is used twice in these three verses. Jesus puts emphasis on a reward for giving alms, praying and fasting. When these things are done for His glory as quietly and privately as possible the Father will reward you. When these things are done so that others will see and admire you that brief admiration is all you get.

Father in heaven, Thank You that You want to bless us with rewards. You have already given us so much in Jesus Christ. May our giving, our praying and our fasting be done in love for You, not out of fear of You, for Your love cast out our fear. In Jesus Holy Name, AMEN!!!