Kidzablaze Devotions

Matthew 6:16-21

16 ``Whenever you fast, do not put on a gloomy face as the hypocrites do, for they neglect their appearance so that they will be noticed by men when they are fasting. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full.

17 ``But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face

18 so that your fasting will not be noticed by men, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.

19 ``Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.

20 ``But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal;

21 for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Jesus’ words about fasting are an invitation to a deeper experience with God. Fasting benefits us in many ways: 

• Cleansing from sin. When we let our spiritual guard down, we start thinking incorrectly. Through such lapses, ungodly attitudes and habits can quietly take up residence in us, and we hardly notice. They impede our fellowship with God, limit the effectiveness of our service, and erode our joy. Fasting helps us give God our undivided attention as He addresses whatever is hindering our spiritual growth. (See Romans 12:2.)

• Guidance. God wants His children to understand and follow His directions. A combination of prayer and fasting helps us develop both the mind needed to hear what He’s saying and the spirit ready to accept His instructions.

• Protection. Through fasting, we gain insight into God’s ways and receive help in identifying unhealthy or dangerous situations. As we submit to His authority and confess our need for protection, the Holy Spirit will give us discernment to make wiser decisions and avoid unnecessary risks.

Fasting coupled with prayer will bring greater spiritual awareness and more intimate communion with the Lord. It can certainly be challenging, but the benefits are worth it.