Fasting – 3 of 6 Spiritual Disciplines

Fasting – 3 of 6 Spiritual Disciplines

Matthew 6:16-18 NLT… “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. 17 But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. 18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.

Introduction: Western civilization is so addicted to opulence, that it frustrates us to hear the word no; even worse, we don’t know how to say no to ourselves.

Transition: Fasting is voluntary and deliberate deprivation; a physical action with spiritual implications.

Exposition: Considering fasting and prayer are twins, we should understand how we should think about it. Think of fasting as praying with your body.

–Why should we fast? For humility. REFERENCE Deuteronomy 8:3 Yes, he humbled you by letting you go hungry and then feeding you with manna, a food previously unknown to you and your ancestors. He did it to teach you that people do not live by bread alone; rather, we live by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.

–When should we fast? While seeking clarity and course correction.

–How should we fast? Without the need of public praise, but comfortable with parental pride.

Challenge: This Thursday (March 7), I am calling us to fast from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Coffee, water, and fruit are permissible and please continue what is necessary for your medical needs.

Devotional song of the week: Give Me A Clean Heart (Fred Hammond)