Fasting
Matthew 6:16–18 (ESV)
"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. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 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."

Fasting is one of the most personal and powerful spiritual disciplines we’re invited into—and one of the most misunderstood.

In these verses, Jesus doesn’t say if you fast. He says when. That’s a quiet expectation for His followers. But just as quickly as He calls us to this practice, He makes something else clear: fasting is not for performance.

It’s not a tool to earn spiritual clout or look holier than someone else. It’s not for sympathy or attention. Jesus reminds us that those who seek the spotlight through fasting already have their reward—the fleeting praise of people.

Instead, Jesus gives a different command: anoint your head, wash your face. In other words, look normal. Go about your day. Let your fast be a private offering, seen only by the Father.

Why the secrecy?

Because fasting is meant to strip away distractions—not create new ones. It is a quiet posture of the heart. A way of saying, God, I want You more than I want this comfort. It could be food. It could be social media. It could be anything that’s been taking up too much space in our lives.

When done with humility and honesty, fasting draws us closer to God. It quiets the noise. It sharpens our vision. And it aligns our hearts with His.

Fasting isn’t about what others see. It’s about what God sees in us.

And He promises that what’s done in secret—He will reward.

Reflection Question:
What might God be calling you to fast from—not to prove anything, but to pursue Him more fully?

Scripture for the Week:
Joel 2:12 – "Yet even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning."

Closing Thought:
Fasting isn’t about emptiness. It’s about making space. So we can be filled—by Him.