Personal Rule of Life Matthew 6:16-18 – 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. [17] But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, [18] 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. Fasting is a practice, with a purpose, that bears fruit Fasting is a Physical Practice Avoid all or nothing thinking Incorporate more than food Fasting has a Spiritual Purpose Spiritual Disciplines are not for public display but for private devotion Fasting is the removal of something physical so that we might incorporate something spiritual Matthew 6:16-18 – 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. [17] But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, [18] 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. Fasting Bears Lasting Fruit Fasting awakens spiritual urgency Fasting loosens our grip on comfort Fasting reveals our cravings beneath the surface Fasting aligns us with God’s heart for justice Fasting deepens our awareness of our need for God