Week 5 - Seeking His Direction

April 5, 2025

When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. - Matthew 6:16-18

Jesus expected his followers to fast, but not in such a way that it brought attention to themselves. The religious people of Jesus’ day thought they were better than others and wanted others to know when they were practicing their piety. They would rub ashes on their faces to bring attention to the fact that they were fasting. But Jesus says that fasting should be between us and God. Putting oil on your head was a way to make yourself look alive and was a symbol of rejoicing.

Spend some time today evaluating:

• What is God telling you to do about fasting?
• Are you obeying what He is telling you?
• Are you rejoicing as you obey?