When, Not If

“Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Matthew 6:16-18

Jesus was letting people know that when they fast it shouldn’t be to be seen by others. Changing your countenance when you fast so others were notice isn’t acceptable. Instead prepare yourself as you do daily. The One who should know You are fasting is God. He sees you in the secret place of prayer, and He will reward that fast. However, if you are fasting to be seen by others, that will be the reward.

What can I learn about fasting from this passage?

• Jesus said “when you fast”, not “if you fast” so while it is not a command, the word when implies it is expected.
• Hypocrites fast to be seen by others. I need to make sure others can not tell I am fasting by my appearance.
• There is a reward in fasting. It can come from what others think or I can have God’s rewards, but I won’t get both.
• There is a secret place where I can meet with God.

Lord, I do try to keep it a secret when I am fast, I want to be in the secret place with You and receive Your reward from being in Your presence. Help me to meet with You whenever You want, and not consider fasting an if I will. Help me not to be a hypocrite when I am fasting.