Matthew 6:16 – 18 And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. ESV
Fasting is a discipline that has gone out of favor in the American church. The vast majority of American Christians have never fasted for spiritual reasons in their entire lives. So let us look at this passage and see what it says to us.
Jesus twice says “when” you fast not “if” you fast. He was expecting his followers to fast. Fasting was a common practice in the Jewish faith of Jesus’ day and according to the Book of Acts the early Christians regularly did so as well.
Jesus also promised that God will reward those who fast properly, with pure motive. God rewards obedience. Nowhere in the New Testament are Christians commanded to fast but the fact that God rewards fasting makes it seem that God wants us to and treats fasting as obedience. At the very least, it means that God is pleased when we fast.
Why does God want us to fast? God wants what is best for us. Medical science has proven that fasting is beneficial for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The Bible shows that fasting is good for us spiritually.
Fasting produces discipline in our lives. Christians are called to live a disciplined life. The Bible repeatedly tells us to deny ourselves for the purpose of strengthening us physically, mentally, and spiritually. Much like an athlete or soldier denies themselves in order to train to be more effective in their sport or combat.
Modern American Christians are not used to denying ourselves. It is not a part of our culture. However, if it pleases God, and is beneficial for us, it is time to reconsider the role of fasting in our pursuit of holiness.
Heavenly Father, I want to be pleasing to You. I want to obey You. Give me the strength, courage, and attitude to fast in a manner that honors You.