When you fast do not die! Part 3 -fasting is abstinence from usually decent cosmetics and adornments

Rev Enoch Thompson | FEBRUARY 20, 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 is not only abstinence from food or rich food. Remember that the broader understanding of biblical fasting makes room for other activities that constitute fasting.

We have a legitimate right to dress well and use cosmetics to create a certain personal comfort and pep up our person. When we deliberately tone down our dressing and cut down on our use of perfumes and make-up, and reduce or do away with accessories like jewellery, for a given period for the purposes of shifting attention from ourselves, waiting on the Lord and engaging in a spiritual transaction with God, we are on the path of fasting. A choice to live very simply but decently as far as body care is concerned is a legitimate lifestyle of fasting.

We have the example of Daniel to refer to again; “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 10:2-3 (NIV).

Reflect on Apostle Peter’s admonishment to Christian women in 1 Peter 3:3-5 in the context of this discussion: “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. ⁴Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.” (NIV).

When we engage with God in this way over a period of time, (a day, a week, a month), or as a lifestyle, it is another way of fasting which will not kill us. We feel the absence of things that we think make us look better, and it is a way of humbling oneself before God, as fasting is supposed to do.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

How does body care factor into your life as a person? We have a duty to dress and deck the body as well as we could. We can by the choices we make. Transform our grooming into a spiritual message God our Father understands.

PRAYER:

Lord, thank you for the things you provide me to make me feel comfortable in my body life. Please guide me to learn to set them aside so I may commune with you from time to time. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!