“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
Matthew 6:16-18
I know for me, in prayer, fasting, sacrificing, and other spiritual disciplines—assuming I do them—my posture is one of pleasing. Of showing God I’m really serious. And I’m so spiritual. And haven’t I been doing well lately?
And completely missing the point.
Your sin is paid for, and because God sees the work of Christ in and over you, God couldn’t be more pleased with you.
So instead of pleasing, I think the goal of fasting and prayer is seeing.
Seeing the God who provides, who saves, who lives, who loves, who reconciles, who heals, and who meets you in every need.
As the old Hymn says:
When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all-sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not harm thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.
You are loved. Go in Peace