Blog

January 11, 2018

Should I fast in secret? Or is it OK to tell other people? - Day 5


Your concern about the public nature of your fast is honoring to God. The Bible speaks very positively about the “Secret Place” where God sees what you do privately, and rewards you openly in a public way. This is not a bargaining strategy for the Christian, but rather an open invitation by God to press into His presence. 

 

“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 NKJV).

 

Clearly, it says that fasting is to be seen only by God. Thus, fasting in seclusion is the lion share of what God is seeking from you as His Child. Your sheltered discipline is a fragrant aroma to the God who sees your true heart and ultimate sacrifice. Your motive for this act of submission is revealed in the quite moments of your physical lack, and such a determination of your faith is what touches Heaven’s hand in your favor. Day-by-day, your earnest aspiration to pursue your Heavenly Father in an isolated manner shouts praises to the King of King and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ. The Result: God takes notice!

 

Then there are times when pastors or leaders of faith call for a corporate fast. If the leader of a congregation calls a public fast and you sense God is speaking to you through that leader, then you should come under that God-given authority and commit to fasting with the others. This public decree is echoed among the Saints of Old and calls for modern believers everywhere to join in the Lord’s battle through fasting. In this instance, shout it from the rooftops and invite others to join this communal fast to bring about change, healing and hope.

 

In our annual 21-day corporate fast, we literally join with millions from all over the world as we fast together and set apart the first portion of the year to seek the Living God as a congregation and as the Body of Christ. It is a powerful time of surrender. It is a holy time of consecration. It is a petition for righteousness all over the Globe. In this occurrence, it is very appropriate, and even recommended, to join with others in small groups, special services, or in online formats like social media to encourage each other and provide accountability and inspiration.

 

How can we encourage or pray for you today? 

Be sure to sign in to answer this question in the comments below and join the conversation! Our team will be moderating and replying to your comments each day! It’s the best way to experience the encouragement, prayers, and support so critical to this corporate fast. Even if you’re fasting alone, you’ve got this community!

Share