Abiding in EasterSample

ABIDING IN EASTER - LENT DEVOTIONAL by BRYAN CRAIG

DAY 9

“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.”

Matthew 6:16-18 ESV

Perhaps you are participating in Lent in the traditional way by fasting from something. Have you already caved in? Fasting doesn’t seem that hard until we decide to do it for the Lord, and then you feel intense pressure coming against you not to do it. Just know that fasting is God’s idea, to help you draw closer to Him in your weakness. It’s not meant to be boastful or public in any way, but a private, secret thing between you and God. Every time you do desire that which you have given up, and you make a decision of the will to deny yourself, it is an act of worship. You will feel the Lord’s pleasure. During this Lenten season, every time you feel the pain of desiring that from which you are fasting, let the pain remind you of Jesus’ pain on the Cross. It will help you put your pain into perspective.

APPLICATION:

Dedicate this Lent journey to Jesus. If you feel you have failed, get up and re-dedicate yourself. Write about this in your journal and pray about it.