Fasting

7-15-2009

Fasting is the choice to abstain from something. Many Christians choose to fast as a way of remembering Christ. For instance, an individual that loves chocolate might fast from eating chocolate for a month. Therefore, every time he or she wishes to eat chocolate, they will be reminded of Christ. Moreover, fasting is a sign of humility and reverence of our Lord.

In Matthew 6:16-18 it says, “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.” Once again, we are commanded to fast with a pure heart. God doesn’t want us to fast for the world to see. We fast to serve as a reminder of Christ, and to honor Christ.

Why do we try to impress the world? We are called to serve the Lord, and our efforts should be to serve and Glorify Jesus Christ. Any energy we use to impress the world is wasteful. We need to focus our energies on the eternal and not the temporal. I know I’m guilty of wanting to please the world at times, so I pray that I will find my self-esteem and self-worth on what God thinks and not what the world thinks. As you pray, serve, fast, and etcetera, make sure your motives are pure. When you catch yourself bragging, name dropping, or doing anything to please the world, STOP. Fix your eyes on the cross, and you will impress people without even saying a word!

Application:
1. Read Matthew 6:16-18