The benefits of fasting

Matthew 6:16,

Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their
faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

MATTHEW 6:14-18

It was a Jewish custom to anoint one's self with olive oil and in Jesus' day it was apparently
customary to anoint the heads of your guests, also (Lk. 7:46). At times ointment or perfumes were
used in this personal anointing. A lack of having one's head anointed was associated with mourning
or sorrow.

Jesus is saying that there should be no external sign of fasting or sorrow, but it should be done
secretly to the Lord to receive a full reward. Paul stated in 1 Corinthians 7:5, that abstinence from
the physical relationship in marriage for the purpose of fasting should not be done without the
consent of one's spouse. A fast does not always have to be totally secretive to be productive. Rather,
Jesus is once again dealing with the motives behind our actions. The fast must be directed toward
God and not men.

Fasting accomplishes many things. One of the greatest benefits of fasting is that through denying the
lust of the flesh, the spirit man gains ascendancy. Fasting was always used as a means of seeking God
to the exclusion of all else. Fasting does not cast out demons, but rather, it casts out unbelief.
Therefore, fasting is beneficial to every aspect of the Christian life - not only in the casting out of
devils.

The real virtue of a fast is in humbling ourselves through self denial, and it can be accomplished
through ways other than total abstinence. Partial fasts can be beneficial, as well as fasts of our time
or pleasures. However, because appetite for food is one of man's strongest drives, fasting from food
seems to get the job done the quickest. Fasting should be a much more important part of our
seeking God.

Endeavor to live a fasted lifestyle, whether it is a denial of yourself through food, or denial of your
own wishes. Exalt Jesus today. Put Him first in everything that you do.