““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, ESV) Not all things God says are commands; but, those things which are commands are not suggestions but just what he said “…when you fast…” is a command of God for us to fast. Fasting serves the purpose of focusing our concentration on the things of God – things which help us to die to ourselves and to live all in for him, as opposed to food consumption which can become more about luxury meals than providing energy for our human bodies. Fasting is a spiritual discipline that should be developed by all Christians. I will confess right now that I have failed pretty miserably at this command of God (by no means implying I have a other commands down pat – I absolutely do not.) God has many fasts for us but the main thing is to fast; we can never fast until we fast. “When you fast” is an ongoing command for each of us to always observe on occasions as God prompts us. Amen
