How can we ensure our fasting aligns with God's desires, not human praise? Setting the Scene “Whenever you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their reward.” (Matthew 6:16) Jesus speaks directly to the motive behind fasting. Applause from people cancels heavenly reward; the Father looks past appearances to the heart. Why Motive Matters • God examines the inner life, not the outward show (1 Samuel 16:7). • Seeking human praise shifts focus from God to self (Galatians 1:10). • Works done “for men to see” have a fleeting payoff; works done “in secret” invite lasting reward (Matthew 6:17-18). Practical Steps to Keep Fasting God-Centered 1. Private Preparation – Decide beforehand that the fast is for the Lord alone. – Ask the Spirit to reveal any desire for attention. Repent of it immediately. 2. Ordinary Appearance – “Anoint your head and wash your face” (Matthew 6:17). – Dress, groom, and behave as on a normal day. – Decline to broadcast the fast on social media or casual conversation. 3. Heart Engagement – Pair fasting with focused prayer and Scripture meditation (Acts 13:2-3). – Replace meal times with worship and thanksgiving. – Let hunger pangs prompt fresh dependence on God’s strength (2 Corinthians 12:9). 4. Active Compassion – God-pleasing fasting loosens injustice and meets needs (Isaiah 58:6-7). – Channel saved meal money into quiet generosity (Matthew 6:3-4). 5. Godward Motivation Check – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:23). – Review motivations daily; if people’s opinions start to matter, reset focus on the Father. Benefits the Father Promises • Deeper intimacy: “Your Father… will reward you” (Matthew 6:18). • Spiritual clarity and guidance (Ezra 8:21-23). • Renewed power over sin (Matthew 17:21). Summary Snapshot Fast privately, dress normally, pray deeply, give quietly, and examine motives continually. In doing so, the fast honors God’s desires, not human praise. |
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