Day 7 - Matthew 6:16-18

A Fasted Journey for Spiritual Renewal

Day 7

“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.” -Mathew 6:16-18

This passage of Scripture is the one I have struggled with the most regarding what I say, do, or who I tell about my fasting period. I still struggle with if I should have released this journal publicly. Today at church we had communion. I declined. I felt awkward doing so, but why? I know that I am in a dedicated fasting period; so does God. So why would it matter what one of the ushers, someone I know, thinks? Also, why would I assume what he thinks?

All of that is faulty thinking on my part, and perhaps even sinful in ways. That is a large reason why I am doing the fast. To commune with God more intimately and humbly and in a way that I have never done before. Furthermore, although participating in communion is an act that I believe important if the heart of a true Believer is right, it can and does fall into the same category of religious ritual as discussed regarding fasting itself yesterday.

In today’s passage Jesus is likely referring to the Pharisees when he says “hypocrites.” My commentary says, “Fasting was a third example of Pharisaic “righteousness.” The Pharisees loved to fast so that others would see them and think them spiritual. Fasting emphasized the denial of the flesh, but the Pharisees were glorifying their flesh by drawing attention to themselves. The Lord’s words emphasized once again that such actions should be done in secret before God.”

My study Bible adds that this passage “indicates that fasting is assumed to be a normal part of one’s spiritual life (cf. 1 Cor. 7:5). Fasting is associated with sadness (Matt. 9:14-15), prayer (17:21), charity (Isa. 58: 3-6), and seeking the Lord’s will (Acts 13:2-3; 14:23). I hadn’t read this footnote until today. It is a real blessing to me as everything listed is something that is a part of my life right now which needs increased spiritual attention.

I have heard people talk about their fasting and this passage immediately comes to mind. I have also heard people discuss their fasting and I walked away being very grateful that they shared their experience. This is something I continue to pray about as I obviously don’t want to be like the hypocrites and the main factor in why I was hesitant to send these journal entries out publicly.

The Bible gives us multiple examples of people fasting, and others knowing they were fasting, including the example of Jesus himself. So I think it reasonable to ascertain that we can discuss fasting, and I think, although I could be wrong, that we can share our experiences with others; if, like the fast itself is supposed to be, we do so from a place of humility and not pride. I suppose that is the crux of the issue here. Pride and humility. What do you think?

I am not a medical professional. This journal is about my spiritual path and about that which the Lord has placed on me. This is not medical advice, nor was this fast done for any medical purpose. If you have a medical interest, seek medical advice. If you have particular health concerns, seek medical advice and/or conduct your own research. Any fasting advice, effects, realizations or anything else related to my fast come from my personal reflection and experience. If you are considering fasting, consulting with a healthcare provider may be appropriate for you.