How does Matthew 6:16 instruct us to approach fasting with sincerity? The Words of Jesus “ When 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) Hypocrisy Exposed • Outward display: intentionally “disfigure their faces” so everyone notices. • Motivation: human applause rather than God’s approval (see Matthew 23:5). • Result: the only reward received is the fleeting admiration of people. The Heart God Sees • 1 Samuel 16:7—“Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” • Psalm 51:17—“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit… a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” • Joel 2:12-13—return “with fasting, weeping, and mourning… rend your hearts and not your garments.” Guidelines for Sincere Fasting • Fast quietly; keep normal appearance (compare Matthew 6:17-18). • Focus on communion with the Father, not on impressing others. • Combine fasting with prayer, Scripture reading, and repentance (Isaiah 58:6-9). • Let acts of mercy accompany the fast—share food, relieve burdens (Isaiah 58:7). • Guard the mind from pride; remember Luke 18:9-14, where the tax collector’s humble cry outweighed the Pharisee’s showy righteousness. Rewards of Hidden Devotion • Deepened intimacy: “Your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:18) • Spiritual clarity: fasting humbles the soul, heightening sensitivity to God’s voice (Acts 13:2-3). • Heaven’s commendation: treasures stored where neither moth nor rust destroy (Matthew 6:19-20). Putting It into Practice 1. Set aside a specific time and purpose for the fast. 2. Begin with repentance; ask God to reveal any hidden motives. 3. Maintain ordinary routines—wash, groom, smile. 4. Use mealtimes for prayer, worship, and Scripture meditation. 5. End the fast with gratitude, recognizing every good gift comes from the Father (James 1:17). Closing Reflection Matthew 6:16 calls believers to a fasting life marked by humility and authenticity. The Father delights in unseen obedience, and He promises lasting reward to those who seek Him with an undivided heart. |
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