When you fast do not die! Part 2 - fasting is abstinence from rich food

Rev Enoch Thompson | FEBRUARY 19, 2023 | MATTHEW 6:16-18

KEY VERSE:

"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. Matthew 6:16 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

Fasting can be the abstinence from rich food. This means that on a given fasting plan we may eat some food, but not our usual quality or quantity of eating. For example, eating only fruits, or food with no fish or meat, or refusing to drink any usual refreshing drink. A week of abstinence from soft drinks that we may be used to can be an effective fast. In this instance whenever we feel the desire to have our favourite drink we are reminded of our engagement with God, and we turn the freedom to enjoy that product into a time of prayer.

We have an example in the case of Daniel; “At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. ³I ATE NO CHOICE FOOD; NO MEAT OR WINE TOUCHED MY LIPS; and I used no lotions at all until the three weeks were over. Dan 10:3a (NIV). In this case, Daniel ate some food, but not his usual rich food.

For example, one could choose not to eat their usual meals, and opt for something less sumptuous. Spending less on food and directing the saved money to a charitable cause is this kind of fasting. The Akans fast (bua da) during funerals, by not eating the usual Fufu with the attendant soups and meats. They may eat rice or potato chips and still say they are fasting.

This kind of fast will be suitable for people performing high-energy tasks or taking care of infants (lactating mothers).

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

Have you tried this partial abstinence fast before? Consider this when your schedule does not seem to allow you the space to enter full abstinence from food.

PRAYER:

Lord, thank you that I do not need to die to fast. May there be more fasting as we see more options for acceptable fasting. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!