In Matthew 6 In What Ways Can We Ensure That Our Fasting Is Genuine And Not For Show?
Exploring Genuine Fasting: Insights from Matthew 6
Fasting is a spiritual discipline that appears throughout Scripture, often associated with seeking God, repentance, and deepening faith. In Matthew 6:16-18 ASV, Jesus teaches about the heart and motive behind fasting, warning believers against practicing it for human approval. Let’s examine Jesus’ words and discover practical ways to ensure our fasting is genuine and God-honoring.
1. Understanding Jesus’ Teaching on Fasting
Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may be seen of men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have received their reward. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thy head, and wash thy face; that thou be not seen of men to fast, but of thy Father who is in secret: and thy Father, who seeth in secret, shall recompense thee. - Matthew 6:16-18 ASV
Jesus contrasts two approaches to fasting:
- Fasting for Show: The hypocrites made their fasting obvious, seeking recognition from others. Their reward was limited to human praise.
- Fasting in Secret: Jesus instructs His followers to fast discreetly, focusing on God rather than public perception. The true reward comes from the Father.
2. Key Principles for Genuine Fasting
A. Examine Your Motives
Fasting should be driven by a desire to seek God, not the approval of others. Our aim should be spiritual growth and dependence on the Lord.
Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts. - Psalm 139:23 ASV
B. Practice Secrecy
Jesus emphasizes keeping fasting between oneself and God. Taking practical steps to avoid drawing attention ensures our focus remains on Him.
- Maintain normal appearance and routines.
- Resist the urge to announce or hint about your fasting.
- Confide only in those who need to know (e.g., for health or accountability).
C. Pursue a Heart of Humility
Fasting is a means of humbling ourselves before God, acknowledging our dependence on Him.
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. - 1 Peter 5:6 ASV
D. Link Fasting with Prayer and Righteous Living
Biblical fasting is often accompanied by prayer and repentance. It is not merely abstaining from food but drawing near to God and aligning our lives with His will.
Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? - Isaiah 58:6 ASV
3. Practical Applications for Today
- Before fasting, pray for a pure heart and right motives (Psalm 51:10 ASV).
- Keep your fasting private; avoid seeking sympathy or admiration.
- Use the time you would spend eating for prayer, Bible reading, or worship.
- Reflect on Christ’s example of humility and obedience (Philippians 2:5 ASV).
4. The Promise of God’s Reward
When fasting is done with a sincere heart, God promises to see and reward us. The reward may include spiritual renewal, deeper intimacy with God, and answered prayer—ultimately, God Himself is our greatest reward.
Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. - James 4:8 ASV
Conclusion
Fasting, when practiced with the right motive, is a powerful tool for spiritual growth. Jesus calls us to prioritize our relationship with God over human recognition, ensuring that our fasting is genuine, humble, and centered on Christ.