Quiet the Noise

Matthew 6:16-18 NKJV

"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. [17] But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, [18] 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.

Fasting is personal.

Don’t make it religious.

Jesus did not say, “If you fast.” He said, “When you fast.” Fasting is a spiritual discipline meant to come out of relationship with God, not religion.

You fast out of relationship, not out of religion.

There are times when life gets loud. Thoughts get loud. Emotions get loud. The demands around us get loud. We need to quiet ourselves enough to hear clearly.

It’s very hard to listen to God when your flesh and thoughts are speaking.

Fasting helps reveal things that control us. It brings humility and breaks pride. It positions us for greater sensitivity to our spirit.

If the outside has a stronger influence on you than the inside, you’re a prime candidate for a fast.

Fasting is not punishment. It is not a way to prove how spiritual you are. It is a way to separate yourself and feed your spirit.

Here’s a challenge for you today:

Ask God if there is something He wants you to set aside for a time so you can quiet the noise and hear Him more clearly. Don’t make it about rules—make it about relationship.