How can Matthew 6:18 guide our approach to fasting today? The Heart of the Passage “so that your fasting will not be obvious to men, but only to your Father who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:18) • Jesus places fasting in the realm of private devotion, not public display. • The Father is attentive, personal, and responsive—He “sees” and “rewards.” • Motive matters as much as method; the inner life outranks outward impression. What Fasting Isn’t • A spiritual photo-op to boost reputation (vv. 16-17). • A manipulative tool to twist God’s arm. • A substitute for obedience in daily life (Isaiah 58:3-7). What Fasting Is • A voluntary, time-bound abstaining from food (and sometimes other comforts) to seek God’s face. • A posture of humility—“I need You more than bread” (Deuteronomy 8:3; Matthew 4:4). • A way to couple prayer with intensified focus (Ezra 8:23; Acts 13:2-3). Practical Takeaways for Today 1. Examine motive – Ask: “Would I still fast if no one ever knew?” 2. Keep it discreet – Normal hygiene and attitude (v. 17) prevent unspoken bragging. 3. Aim for God-centered reward – Expect deeper fellowship, clearer guidance, fresh power, not applause. 4. Blend Word and prayer – Read, meditate, and intercede while fasting (Psalm 119:18). 5. Pair fasting with obedience – Repair relationships, pursue justice, show generosity (Isaiah 58:6-10). Guardrails Against Legalism • Fasting is assumed, not commanded on a fixed schedule (Matthew 9:15). • Length and style are Spirit-led, not one-size-fits-all (Daniel 10:2-3; 1 Corinthians 7:5). • Grace, not guilt, motivates—Christ already secured our acceptance (Ephesians 1:6-7). Encouragement from Related Scriptures • “Return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning.” (Joel 2:12) • “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” (1 Peter 5:6) • “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit.” (Psalm 51:17) Suggested Steps for Your Next Fast 1. Clarify purpose: repentance, guidance, intercession, worship. 2. Decide format: meal-skip, 24-hour, multi-day, Daniel-type partial. 3. Prepare physically: hydrating, tapering caffeine if needed. 4. Plan Scriptures and prayer themes. 5. Begin with secrecy and joy, keeping normal appearance. 6. Break the fast with gratitude, record insights, and walk in the light received. Let Matthew 6:18 steer you toward quiet, God-focused fasting that brings private communion and public fruit. |
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