Friday 31/8/12

Matthew 6:16-18 ESV

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.

Fast represents activities which we are taking losses and uncomforts in God's name. Fast is refrain from taking food to concentrate on spiritual matter. Similar to turning the other cheek or forgiving others who sin against us, fast goes against our sinful nature & worldly wisdom, indicating one's spiritual maturity and obeying to God.

But again, motive - why we do it & for what - is important. If we do this to receive praises from men, then we won't get any from God. Spiritual matters must be from the heart. We must be consistent, in public and more so in private. God knows what we do when no one sees, and He rewards us accordingly.