Lesson 15 – Fasting

Matthew 6:16-18

“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. 

In these verses, Jesus teaches about the practice of fasting and emphasizes the importance of sincerity and humility when engaging in this spiritual discipline. He warns against fasting with the intention of seeking attention and praise from others, as the hypocrites did.

Jesus instructs his followers to maintain a normal appearance and not to draw attention to their fasting. Instead of appearing disheveled and gloomy, they are encouraged to present themselves in a way that does not reveal their fasting to others. The focus should be on the spiritual aspect of fasting and the personal connection with God.

Jesus highlights that fasting is a private and intimate act of devotion to God. The Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward those who fast with sincere hearts and genuine intentions. The true significance of fasting lies in the personal relationship and communication with God, rather than seeking recognition from others.

The passage serves as a reminder that acts of spiritual devotion should not be performed for the sake of appearance or public acclaim. It encourages believers to approach fasting with authenticity and a genuine desire to seek God's presence, guidance, and blessing.

However, the underlying message emphasizes the importance of maintaining a sincere and private devotion to God in all spiritual disciplines, including fasting. It invites believers to cultivate a genuine heart of humility and seeking God's approval rather than the praise of others when engaging in acts of spiritual devotion.