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

“Yet even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.”
Joel 2:12

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
Acts 13:2

Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke?
Isaiah 58:6

Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
1 Corinthians 7:5


~~~~~

A Fast for Change
By Jennifer Kane

My heart, at times, quietly rebels
when the call to fast arises.
A simmering resistance—
subtle, but present—
yet I know fasting is as ancient,
as true, as the blood that redeems,
as the repentance that restores.

Call me to fast, Lord,
not out of duty, but desire—
for a softened heart,
a spirit bowed low in surrender.
Loosen the chains that hold me still,
that freeze me in fear and comfort.

I want Your truth to flood my mind,
to reshape my will,
for Your ways rise higher than mine,
Your wisdom deeper than my hunger.

Even now, Lord, You call—
“Return to Me with all your heart,
with fasting, with weeping, with mourning.”

Is this not the fast You desire?
To shatter the bonds of wickedness,
to lift the yoke,
to set the oppressed free,
to break every chain?

Lord, let my fasting be more than hunger—
let it be a yielding,
a breaking,
a becoming.

~~~~~

Scriptures: Matthew 6:16-18, Joel 2:12, Acts 13:2, Isaiah 58:6, 1 Corinthians 7:5

Fasting is often seen as an act of self-denial, but in Scripture, it is a powerful discipline that draws us closer to God. It is not about outward appearances or mere ritual but about aligning our hearts with God’s will, seeking His presence, and deepening our faith.

Jesus warns against fasting for human recognition in Matthew 6:16-18. Instead, we are to fast in secret, seeking only God’s approval. True fasting is an intimate act between the believer and the Lord, leading to spiritual rewards that only He can give.

God calls His people to return to Him with fasting, weeping, and mourning. This verse reminds us that fasting is more than abstaining from food; it is a heartfelt expression of repentance and a turning back to God with sincerity.

The early church fasted as they worshiped, and it was during this time that the Holy Spirit gave direction (Acts 13:2). Fasting creates space for God’s voice to be heard, sharpening our spiritual focus and allowing us to discern His plans more clearly.

God rebukes those who fast without love and justice. True fasting should lead to action—setting the oppressed free, helping the needy, and breaking the chains of sin. Fasting is not just about personal devotion but about living out God’s love in tangible ways.

In marriage, Paul speaks of fasting as a time set apart for prayer, but only by mutual consent in 1 Corinthians 7:5. This verse highlights that fasting should be intentional, temporary, and focused on deepening one’s relationship with God.

Ask God to reveal His purpose for your fast. Are you seeking guidance, repentance, or a deeper connection with Him?
Follow Jesus’ teaching and fast privately, seeking God’s approval rather than human recognition.
Like the early church, spend your fasting time in worship, prayer, and meditating on God’s Word.
Consider how you can use your fast to help others—through generosity, service, or intercession.
Whether fasting from food, distractions, or comforts, commit to a set time and use it to grow in spiritual discipline.

This week, set aside a time of fasting—whether it be a meal, a day, or a distraction like social media. Use that time to pray, seek God’s presence, and look for ways to serve others in love.

~~~~~

My God, please teach me to fast with a heart that seeks You above all else. Let my fasting draw me into deeper communion with You, leading me to repentance, wisdom, and compassion. May my fasting be an act of worship that brings me closer to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

March 11 2025