Once when John's disciples and the Pharisees
were fasting, some people came to Jesus and asked, "Why don't your
disciples fast like John's disciples and the Pharisees do?" Jesus replied,
"Do wedding guests fast while celebrating with the groom? Of course not.
They can't fast while the groom is with them. But someday the groom will be
taken away from them, and then they will fast. Mark 2:18-20
Fasting was a common practice
for Jewish holidays. There are many occasions recorded in the Old Testament of
Israel and others…fasting.
When faced with
war from three nations…Jehoshaphat was
terrified by this news and begged the LORD for guidance. He also ordered everyone
in Judah to begin fasting. 2 Chronicles 20:3.
These letters established the Festival of
Purim—an annual celebration of these days at the appointed time, decreed by
both Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther. (The people decided to observe this
festival, just as they had decided for themselves and their descendants to
establish the times of fasting and mourning.) Esther 9:31
So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with
him in prayer and fasting. I also wore rough burlap and sprinkled myself with
ashes. Daniel 9:3
When we fast it is an opportunity to seek
God…rather than enjoyment of food or other pleasures. We are repeatedly advised
to seek God and that God rewards those who seek Him—
-
He commanded the people of Judah to seek the LORD, the God of their
ancestors, and to obey his law and his commands. 2 Chronicles 14:4
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Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he
will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33
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And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to
come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who
sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6
-
The humble will see their God at work and be glad. Let all who seek
God's help be encouraged. Psalm 69:32
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| This alligator lives at Magnolia Gardens near Charleston SC. Does he look like he's been fasting? |
Jesus’ disciples did not fast—Jesus wasn’t
fasting when the Pharisees confronted Him. The Bridegroom is Jesus—and He will
return one day to take us to a wonderful Banquet in Heaven. No fasting there!
For now…are you fasting like the Pharisees or preparing for a Banquet with our
Bridegroom—seeking Him?
Prayer
~ Lord Jesus—reveal Yourself to me today in a new and greater depth as I seek
You with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength.
Daily
Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 25-27
©
2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All
scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted
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