JESUS SPEAKING
“Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But I say to you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting; but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly” (Mathew 6: 16 – 18.)
INSPIRED THOUGHTS
Fasting is an ancient practice that elevates the spirit above the desires of the flesh. Denying the body sustenance (food) for a time is a sacrifice that God honors; those who practice it draw near to Him and are given greater control over their fleshly impulses. Many individuals were fasting for the wrong reasons; therefore, Jesus warned His followers to fast in secret, and to avoid disclosing their endeavors to others. In so doing, they would reap the spiritual rewards they so richly deserved.
Jonathan Edwards was an evangelical pastor who lived in New England in the 1700’s. He wasn’t a very articulate man; nor was he astoundingly charismatic; yet on July 8th, 1741, he gave one of the most stirring sermons ever preached to a congregation; the sermon was entitled, “Sinners in the hands of an Angry God.” The response from those in attendance was amazing; many came to rededicate or fully commit their lives to Jesus Christ. How did a man with very little natural ability accomplish such a feat? He fasted for three days and three nights before giving his speech. His repeated prayer to God was, “Give me New England. Give me New England. Give me New England.”
Like Jonathan Edwards, we too can use fasting and prayer to accomplish wonderful things for God. Some may fast for days, others for shorter amounts of time; no matter the length, every period of fasting is accompanied by a blessing. Each time we deny ourselves food and dedicate ourselves fully to spiritual principals we become more like Jesus Christ. Commit a portion of your life to fasting and you will grow stronger in the faith. As you draw nearer to God you will receive the many blessings He has reserved for those who love Him.
“Lord Heavenly Father, help us to commit to the practice of fasting, that we might grow strong in the faith. May we fast in secret and receive your rewards openly. Guide us and lead us; speak to our hearts and transform our minds, that we would be Your children, and you would be our Father. We love You Lord, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.” God bless all of you.
Jesus Speaks 