This is a challenging sermon, one that I bet you have never heard before. The topic of fasting is something that is absent in our American culture and yet scripture and the history of the church lead us to understand that there is great value in this discipline. I challenge you to listen with open ears, hearts, and minds.
I invite you to share your thoughts and comments.
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So, is fasting something a person does in private? IF so, how does one fast without others knowing about it? I've had people brag about their fasting in front of groups of people. It appeared to be a "holier than thou" attitude. I have a tendency to retreat when I fast, therefore I've never fasted for more than 5 or 6 days.
ReplyDeleteLet me first remind us of the scripture that was preached on:
ReplyDeleteMatthew 6:16-18 "And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face,so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
That said, all fasting should be done as a very personal thing between God and the individual. It should be used to seek counsel, in times of sadness, or pleading for Gods intervention. Ultimately it is a time for us to depend wholly on Him and grow our relationship with him.
However there is also a fine line with accountability groups, and when teaching. (Fasting does not get taught much) So in fact, there are times when a person may be called to speak about a time of fasting and the way that God worked in their life to teach and encourage others. If so, this should always be done with great humility.
Good question, and thanks for the comment!
In regard to how you can fast without others knowing, it is pretty easy. (With the exception of your spouse or accountability group) All you have to do is alter your routine a little; tell people you are going to go for a walk on lunch break,(this is a good way to pray anyway) At some events you can just politely say you are not hungry, or not eating for that meal.
ReplyDeleteThe point is that anyone who encounters you at one of those expected eating times, does not need to know you are fasting or for how long. A simple and polite dismissal that you will not be partaking in that particular meal is plenty sufficient. (most people will not be nosy) If however someone asks if you are fasting just give them a polite answer and let it drop. If they push for more information such as why or how long, share with them that you believe fasting is a very personal thing between you and God. Again the key here is humility.
By the way, if you practice 5-6 day fasts you are already well above the normal American experience of fasting. And you are right that a retreat is the best way to go about it. However don't be afraid to fast in your normal life routine if that is when God places it upon your heart.
Blessings, and good fasting.
Thanks for the help and for the encouragement that 5 -6 days is a good start. I hope to fast a longer period of time in the future. Staying in Gods word during that time can be like a Thanksgiving Feast!!! God is Good!!!
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