Why It Matters//
Fasting is a spiritual discipline and act of self-denial that the Bible instructs us to do for various reasons. It is voluntary, almost always includes abstinence from food/drink, it brings new levels of breakthrough, and reminds us that we are to live Spirit-led lives. When we fast we are choosing to give up something we need physically for something we desire or need spiritually. Fasting has both spiritual and physical benefits, but we also need to use wisdom while fasting and take into consideration our physical health and life circumstances.
What It’s Talking About//
The gospel of Matthew was written by Matthew, one of the twelve apostles. He wrote this book to a Jewish audience. It is believed to be written towards the early years of the church, around 50AD, but could be later during 60-70AD as well.
Isaiah was a prophet in the kingdom of Judah, and most scholars agree that he wrote at least most of the book of Isaiah. His ministry spans between the years 740-681BC, when he died. Isaiah lived during the time Assyria occupied Israel (722-721BC), the northern Kingdom, and he warns Judah that her sin will cause her to become a captive of Babylon, which happened after Isaiah had passed. The book of Isaiah unveils the full dimensions of God’s judgment and salvation.
Matthew 6:16-18 NLT
16 “And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get.
17 But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face.
18 Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.
Isaiah 58:5-9 NIV
5 Is this the kind of fast I have chosen, only a day for people to humble themselves? Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed and for lying in sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?
6 “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
9 Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. “If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk,