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.

Matthew 6:16 (KJV)

Context

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches His disciples about true righteousness that comes from the heart. Verse 16 addresses fasting, warning against the hypocrisy of those who fast to be seen by others. This warning is part of a larger section where Jesus corrects the outward display of spiritual practices.

Meaning

Fasting is the voluntary abstinence from food for a spiritual purpose, such as drawing closer to God, seeking His guidance, or expressing repentance. Jesus warns against the hypocrites who put on a sad countenance and disfigure their faces to make their fasting obvious to others. The phrase “disfigure their faces” refers to neglecting personal appearance, such as not washing or anointing the head, to appear mournful and attract attention. Their motive is to gain recognition and praise from people rather than sincerely seeking God.

Jesus states that such hypocrites “have their reward.” This means the admiration they receive from others is the only reward they will obtain. They forfeit any reward from God because their focus is on human approval, not on pleasing Him. The warning is not against fasting itself, which is assumed as a normal spiritual discipline, but against the motive of the heart.

Biblical connections

In the following verses, Matthew 6:17-18, Jesus instructs His disciples to fast in secret, anointing their heads and washing their faces so that their fasting is not noticed by others. He assures them that their Heavenly Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward them openly. This reinforces the principle that acts of piety should be done for God’s eyes alone, not for public acclaim.

Application

This verse challenges us to examine our motives when we fast or engage in any spiritual practice. We should not perform religious acts to impress others or gain their approval. Instead, our focus should be on seeking an authentic relationship with God, pleasing Him rather than seeking human recognition. True fasting is about developing a deeper connection with God and aligning our hearts with His purposes.

Reflection

Jesus desires sincerity and humility in our spiritual lives. When we fast, we are invited to do so with a genuine heart, seeking God’s presence and will above all else. The reward that comes from God, who sees in secret, far surpasses the fleeting praise of people. Let us pursue that eternal reward with a pure motive.