This is the first part of a 3-part devotional on fasting, prayer and worry based on Matthew 6.
Matthew 6:16-18 (NIV):
“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.”
Reflection:
Fasting is not merely about abstaining from food; it is a spiritual discipline designed to draw us closer to God. In this passage, Jesus instructs us on the heart behind fasting: it should be sincere and private, focused on seeking God rather than impressing others.
When we fast, we should maintain our normal appearance and routine, keeping this sacred act between ourselves and God. This private devotion emphasizes that our relationship with Him is paramount. Fasting invites us to set aside distractions and reorient our hearts toward God, reminding us that our dependence rests solely on Him, not on worldly concerns.
In a culture that often values external appearances, Jesus calls us to an inward transformation that aligns our hearts with His will. It’s a chance to strip away the superficial and engage deeply with our Creator.
Meditation Topic:
What distractions in your life could you consider fasting from to foster a deeper connection with God?
Additional Scriptures on Fasting:
Joel 2:12
“Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”
Isaiah 58:6
“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?”
Acts 14:23
“Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.”
Acts 13:2-3
“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.”
As we embark on this journey of fasting, I want us to keep in mind that it is a sacred time to seek God, align our hearts with His, and experience His transformative power in our lives.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to fast with a humble heart. May my fasting draw me closer to You and deepen my reliance on Your presence in my life. Teach me to seek You above all else.
Thank you for taking the time to read! I wish you peace and prosperity.
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