SATURDAY March 21, 2020

A Façade of Fasting

“Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.”
Matthew 6:16

Jesus taught His disciples on the subject of fasting. Understand, once a year, the entire nation of Israel would fast on the Day of Atonement. However, whenever the Pharisees fasted, they changed their appearance and looked very sober. People obviously knew they were fasting; the Pharisees had their reward––recognition of men. Jesus got His point across; fasting was a time between them and the Lord. Fasting was done privately, not publicly for everyone to see.

Chuck Smith spoke about fasting, and I remember an example he gave. He would visit older people in their homes, as they could not attend church. He talked and fellowshipped with them. On one occasion, a sweet, little, old lady offered him a piece of cake, even though Pastor Chuck was fasting, he would go ahead and pray, eat the cake, and break his fast. Chuck decided he would fast another time.

Understand, fasting is not so a believer can lose weight and look better in new clothing. Biblical fasting is a time of self-denial, whereby a Christian can get close to the heart of God. A person can decide what they want to give up for the Lord. They could choose to fast from social media, or fast for one, two or three meals. However, if a person has an illness, it would be best to check with their doctor first. God will give us strength, wisdom and insight to fasting.

Do you have a hunger for God? If we don't feel strong desires for the manifestation of the glory of God, it is not because we have drunk deeply and are satisfied. It is because we have nibbled so long at the table of the world. Our soul is stuffed with small things, and there is no room for the great. If we are full of what the world offers, then perhaps a fast might express, or even increase, our soul's appetite for God. Between the dangers of self-denial and self-indulgence is the path of pleasant pain called fasting.
~John Piper~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!