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Matthew 6:16 (BSB)
When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“When you fast, do not be somber like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they already have their full reward.” — Matthew 6:16
Imagine you're in a room full of people, and someone walks in looking all somber and dramatic, hoping everyone notices how hard they're trying to be spiritual. That's what this verse is about! It's like a spotlight on the idea that if you're fasting—giving up something important for a while to connect deeper with something greater—don't put on a sad face just to show off. Instead, focus on the purpose of your fast! It's a call to authenticity, encouraging you to keep your personal journey between you and your spirit, not a performance for an audience. The truth is, if you’re just doing this for attention, that’s the only reward you’ll get. Keep it real!
This book was written by Matthew, one of Jesus’ disciples. He had a unique perspective—coming from a background of collecting taxes, he understood the difference between genuine faith and showy actions. Matthew wanted to highlight Jesus’ teachings to guide people toward a more authentic connection with their spirituality. By including this detail about fasting, he’s urging you, the reader, to prioritize what’s inside over what others see. His goal? To show you that it’s not about impressing others, but about deepening your own journey.
When Matthew wrote this, the world was buzzing with religious rituals and expectations. The Jewish culture was steeped in traditions, including fasting, which was often done publicly for recognition. It was a time when people sought validation through their actions. Understanding this context helps you see why Jesus’ words were revolutionary—they challenged the norms of the day. Instead of following the crowd, He invited individuals to explore a deeper, more personal relationship with their faith. This was a radical shift in thinking!
This verse hits home because it reminds you that your spiritual journey is personal, not a competition. In a world that often prizes appearances and social media likes, Jesus is saying, 'Focus on your heart, not your image.' It’s easy to get caught up in how things look to others, but this verse encourages you to dig deeper and find meaning for yourself. It can change everything about how you approach your personal practices, whether it’s fasting, prayer, or any other spiritual discipline. You get to decide what's real for you!
This week, take a moment to reflect on something you might be doing just to impress others—whether it’s a social media post or a community service project. Instead, try to focus on a personal, private commitment. If you decide to fast, approach it as a personal journey between you and your spirit, not something to broadcast. You could also set aside time for quiet reflection or prayer, without trying to impress anyone else. Make it about your relationship and your growth, not about being seen!
This verse is nestled in a larger conversation about how to genuinely connect with your spirituality without showing off. Right before this, Jesus talks about giving to those in need and praying sincerely. It’s all about the heart behind the action. This specific verse is like the crescendo in a song, emphasizing that the intention matters more than the appearance. After this, Jesus continues to teach about how to pray effectively and truly connect with your faith, reinforcing the theme of sincerity in every aspect of your relationship with the divine. It’s a powerful moment that challenges you to look inward rather than outward!
What does it look like for you to practice your faith authentically, without worrying about what others think?
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