July 21 Daily Pause
July 21, 2020 | Leah Lynch
READ: Matthew 6:16-18
REFLECTION: When we’re asked for ways that we can grow in our relationship with God, answers typically include being in His Word and spending time in prayer. And how true those answers are. Without them, we would be lost. But, what about fasting? Jesus didn’t open this topic with an if statement. He opened it with a when statement.
Fasting is freeing. It frees you from having to figure it all out. In the giving up, it is an acknowledgement that what we really need is God. It draws us near to God as we trust that He is enough.
“As the deer longs for streams of water, so I long for you, O God.” Psalm 42:1 (NLT)
We need God more than anything, including the approval of others. Jesus points out how important it is that when we fast, we are not to make it obvious. Why do we do anything in secret? Because in some way, it’s personal. Fasting is personal. It’s making room to more intimately know the voice of God. If, in the quiet, we learn to hear His voice, it becomes easier to identify His voice when everything around us is anything but quiet. Verse 18, “…your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Our reward? The assurance of His presence, the promise of His goodness, the confidence to trust His guidance.
As you consider fasting, and what it looks like in your own life, start with Psalm 34:8. “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!” When we spend time fasting, we are agreeing that no matter what circumstances we find ourselves in, no matter what we are fervently praying for, God, in His goodness, is what we desire most.
PRAYER: Lord, I want to taste and see that you are good. My soul longs for you. Holy Spirit, show me what I can give up to make more room for you. Father, Help me to see that you alone are all I need. In Jesus name, Amen