Scripture to Read: Matthew 6:17–18
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:17–18, “But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face 18 so that your fasting will not be noticed by men…” When we’re fasting, our appearance must reflect His joy and peace so that no one knows we’re fasting. Fasting has never been about drawing attention to ourselves, though we may be tempted to do that. God wants our lives to be lived in such a way that no one has a clue that we’re fasting to deepen our intimacy with Him and His Word. But our lives should be noticeable in other ways. People should see the joy we have in Christ. They should see that we walk in His peace even when the world around us is falling apart. They should hear the Truth from us of how God can transform their lives if they’re willing to surrender to Him as Lord. They should notice how differently we act to the tests and trials of this life because our hope, rest, and peace are in Christ alone. When we’re fasting, our lives are going to change, and our intimacy with our Lord is going to be broadened and deepened. People should never be able to know we’re fasting, but they should see the works of Christ in us and through us. Just like God had Paul tell the Christians in Thessalonica in 1 Thessalonians 1:3, “constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father.”
Challenge & Application
· What do people see through your life each day? Do they see your work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope in Christ?
· What needs to change in your life for people to see your work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope in Christ?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!