DAY 46
Marc Turnage
Scripture 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. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 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
Today we are reminded that our spirituality is not about drawing people to ourselves, but drawing glory to our Father. And when we fast, it is a time of repentance, a time to take a very clear inventory of our lives and behaviors, and a time to invite the Holy Spirit to show us the things that are creating barriers between God and us. True fasting involves repentance.
Marc teaches us that fasting is a discipline we practice not just individually, but corporately as we practice fasting together with our families and our life groups. Just as we don’t need to wait for the church to organize opportunities for us to give to others, we also don’t need to wait for the church to organize a time of fasting, prayer, and repentance.
Question: What will you fast for? What will you fast from? Who will you fast with?
Prayer Starter: Jesus, I invite You to show me what You want me to set aside during this time of fasting....
Family Chat: As a family, talk about something you can give up to spend more time with Jesus, like social media or video games. Ask Jesus to help you know what to fast from.
Take Action: Set aside one day this week to fast and pray with your family and/or your life group. Repent to the Lord for the things that are creating barriers between Him and you.
Additional Resources: