As we begin the new year, Converge churches and missionaries from around the globe will embark on 21 Days of Prayer. Join us on this prayer journey by reading the daily entries on Converge’s blog, or by downloading your free 21 Days of Prayer: Upside-down Kingdom guide (English/Spanish). In addition, you can share daily posts from our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter feeds. Thank you for joining us as we open 2022 in prayer together.
Day 13: Fasting
Matthew 6:16-18
16“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Jesus mentioned fasting in the same way as prayer. It is something internal, something between you and your Father in heaven. When fasting is done for show, the reward is other people’s acknowledgment. But when it is done in secret, you will be rewarded by your heavenly Father. Fasting, like prayer, is also assumed. Not if, but when you fast. In today’s world, fasting is trending. A lot of people I personally know practice intermittent fasting to stay in shape. It has been shown that some fasting is good for you physically. But Jesus was not just condoning fasting to start a new diet program. Fasting for Jesus was something greater.
Fasting for Jesus is a part of being in the Kingdom of God. To fast is to go without, so that you can focus on God and his provision for you in your life. It is also preparation. Jesus fasted during his wilderness trial. He knew his reliance and focus on the Father was what would get him through what lay ahead. How often do we think of fasting the way Jesus did? How often do we fast and rely on God for our lives and thank him for all we have?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for teaching us to fast. Thank you for being our example as to why and how we should fast. Help us to fast not just because it’s trendy, but because it helps us focus more on you. Help us to seek you for strength and guidance so that we can be better equipped to face the trials in our lives. In your name we pray. Amen.
