[16] “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. [17] But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, [18] 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.
As you read the passage, what blessed you, challenged you, or raised questions?
Head: Does Jesus say, "if " you fast or "when" you fast? What does that say about whether or not we should make it a part of our spiritual life?
Heart: What is something you can fast (meal or a certain habit that you prioritize more than Jesus).
Hands: How can you ask for prayer for your fast
What is fasting? Fasting is to refrain from something (usually food) that is usually a priority in your day for a set period of time. People fast in order to better focus on God, in order to have more focused prayer, or to bring our heart's appetites more under control. All these goals are commendable and good for Christian growth.
But Jesus warns us that we don't do these things to have a good reputation with other people. In fact, Jesus encourages us to even take steps to keep it private, so that we can keep it between us and God. Now, it's ok to let people know, especially if you are asking people to pray for you during your fast. Just keep the circle small and check your heart that it's not an occasion to brag.
Consider doing a fast. It can be skipping one meal or skipping a day of meals. The important thing is for you to spend time in the Word and prayer during the times you would have been eating. It helps to make a prayer list and to select the passage(s) of the Bible in advance. Also, ask a close friend or mentor to pray for you for your fast.
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Devotional Guide:
1) Pray for understanding in your mind, for trust in your heart, and for powerful obedience in your daily living.
2) Read the passage and mark anything that blesses you, challenges you, or raises a question.
3) Reflect on the passage. What's God saying about Himself? What's God saying about you?
4) Pray in response to what God puts on your heart through the Word.