Behind Closed Doorsਨਮੂਨਾ

Day 3) Fasting

How To Fast The Right Way

1) Don’t Seek Attention

“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.” (Matthew 6:16 ESV)

Just like His teaching on generosity and prayer from the previous two lessons, Jesus also addresses the tendency to fast in a showy, public way. In the original language, fasting meant "to abstain, as a religious exercise, from food and drink." Today, believers still fast to deepen their relationship with God. Jesus makes it clear that fasting should be done privately, not to gain attention or admiration from others!

2) Focus On God

“But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret…” (Matthew 6:17-18a ESV)

The primary purpose of fasting is to develop a deeper dependence on God, which, in turn, deepens our relationship with Him. Whether you choose to fast from food, drink, or even something like television or social media, the goal is to replace those moments with intentional time spent with God through reading Scripture, prayer, worship, and connecting with your church community.

3) Embrace The Reward

“... And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:18b ESV)

While there has been much debate about what exactly the “reward” of fasting is, the context of this passage offers some clues. If fasting is meant to be private, then the reward cannot be the approval of others. Since God is sovereign over time and space, fasting is also not about manipulating Him or forcing His hand. Instead, fasting reorients our hearts and minds to be more aware of God’s presence, power, and purpose for our lives. This renewed spiritual perspective is far greater than any material reward the world can offer!

Big Idea: Fasting is a private spiritual discipline meant to deepen our relationship with God, not to gain attention or manipulate outcomes. When done with the right heart, fasting makes us more aware of God's presence, aligns us with His purpose, and brings lasting spiritual depth.

Let’s Think About This:

Question 1) Have you ever fasted before? What was that experience like for you?

Question 2) What distractions in your life might God be calling you to abstain from in order to grow closer to Him?

Question 3) How have you experienced (or how do you hope to experience) spiritual reward through the practice of fasting?