Andrew Wommack Devotional 5 March 2024 – The Benefits of Fasting
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Topic: The Benefits of Fasting
Matthew 6:16, “Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.”
Text: Matthew 6:14-18
It was a Jewish custom to anoint oneself with olive oil, and in Jesus’ day, it was customary to call your guests’ heads (Lk. 7:46). At times, ointment or perfumes were used in this personal anointing. A lack of having one’s head anointed was associated with mourning or sorrow.
Jesus says there should be no external sign of fasting or sorrow, but it should be done secretly to the Lord to receive a full reward. Paul stated in 1 Corinthians 7:5 that abstinence from the physical relationship in marriage for fasting should not be done without the consent of one’s spouse. A fast does not always have to be secretive to be productive. Instead, Jesus is once again dealing with the motives behind our actions. The fast must be directed toward God and not men.
Fasting accomplishes many things. One of the most significant benefits of fasting is that the spirit man gains ascendancy by denying the lust of the flesh. Fasting was always used to seek God to the exclusion of all else. Fasting does not cast out demons but instead casts out unbelief. Therefore, fasting benefits every aspect of the Christian life – not only in the casting out of devils.
The real virtue of a fast is in humbling ourselves through self-denial, and it can be accomplished through ways other than total abstinence. Partial fasts and fasts of our time or pleasures can be beneficial. However, because appetite for food is one of man’s most robust drives, fasting from food seems to get the job done quickly. Fasting should be a much more critical part of our seeking God. Endeavor to live a fasted lifestyle, whether it is a denial of yourself through food or denying your wishes. Exalt Jesus today. Put Him first in everything that you do.
This message was written by The Association of Related Ministries International (ARMI)and is an extension of Andrew Wommack Ministries (AWM). ARMI is a unique partnership committed to providing resources to help like-minded ministers succeed in a spirit of excellence and to draw from the experience and expertise of both the AWM and Charis Bible College staff. (www.awmi.net).
