Have you ever fasted? Choosing to go without food is sometimes required for lab tests. Or we might skip a few meals to lose a few pounds. But fasting is a spiritual practice, abstaining from food, or other things, to spend concentrated time in worship and prayer.
In Matthew 6, Jesus’ comments were aimed at the Pharisees and religious leaders who were known to practice spiritual disciplines such as giving and fasting in flashy and pretentious ways. They wanted people to notice how devout they were, to be seen, admired, and praised. In contrast, others practiced such actions “in secret,” looking only for God’s approval.
When they were fasting, these hypocrites would look somber or gloomy (v. 16). In modern terms, “disfigure” means they would not wash their faces and perhaps go around rubbing their stomachs and groaning. They wanted everyone to know they were fasting and to be impressed by their “piety.” That, said Jesus, would be the only reward they would ever receive. Ironically, though they were going without food, their pride was being well-fed.
He taught His followers, on the other hand, that they should fast “in secret,” that is, so that others couldn’t tell (vv. 17–18). They should put oil—spiced or perfumed olive oil—on their heads, the equivalent of showering and putting on deodorant today. By caring for their bodies in a normal manner, no one would notice anything different. Only God would know, and He would reward them.
The Pharisees in Jesus’ day were fasting twice per week. But the Law required only one fast per year, on the Day of Atonement (though more were possible). Jesus assumed His disciples and the church would continue this spiritual practice, as He Himself had (Matt. 4:2; 9:15).
Go Deeper
Is fasting recommended as a spiritual discipline at your church? Have you ever fasted? What goals might you have in doing so?
Pray with Us
Jesus, we yearn for closeness with You. Please show us what parts of our own behavior and attitude are getting in the way of our relationship with You. We want to know You better.
Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.Matthew 6:18
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