Is Discipline the Same as Greater Devotion?

No physical pleasures, mandatory fasting, and a strong emphasis on generosity—at first glance, the rules of Ramadan may seem extremely strict from a Christian perspective. But why do we perceive them this way? Why does Christian fasting, in contrast, sometimes feel almost too lenient? Does this freedom take away the power of fasting?

The goal here is not to compare Muslim and Christian fasting directly, but rather to challenge a common misconception: we often equate strictness with strength and fail to examine the true essence of fasting. But fasting is not about external intensity—it is about the posture of the heart.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks very clearly about fasting: “When you fast, do not look somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.” (Matthew 6:16). These words carry weight. Jesus makes it clear: those who fast to be seen by others have already received their reward—the admiration of people. But fasting was never meant to be a tool for self-promotion; it is meant to create space for God to move.

The true purpose of fasting is to humble ourselves so that God can take center stage. But when we fill this sacred space with our desire for recognition and praise, we leave little room for His presence. That is why Jesus instructs His disciples: “But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen.” (Matthew 6:17-18). At that time, it was common to make one’s fasting visible—by placing ashes on the head or displaying signs of mourning. Jesus, however, calls for an inward, hidden posture: it is not the outward act that matters, but the heart’s sincere turning toward God.

Fasting is not a time of sorrow. On the contrary, it is a season of joyfully seeking God, of experiencing Him on a deeper level. What could be more fulfilling than that? Fasting is not an achievement that earns us recognition, but a process that draws us deeper into God’s presence. It is not the severity of discipline that matters, but the depth of devotion.

Next Step: Where in your fasting journey has your heart posture been misplaced? Ask Jesus for forgiveness and invite Him to reveal His glory to you in a fresh way.