In a society of plenty where most people eat far more than what is necessary for good health, there is great benefit in fasting. There are many ways to fast, but it can be done simply by eliminating just one meal on one day each week, or by fasting for a whole day drinking only water or juice. Basically, by withholding some food or drink the body is given an opportunity to rest and heal, resulting in the well being of the person.
God asks us to enter into another fast; one from doing our own thing so that others may receive a spiritual blessing through us. So, how do we do that?
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens [instead of binding them on], and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?” Isaiah 58:6, 7.
The true fast is not mere formal service, but is spiritual. The Scripture, in Isaiah 58:6 and 10, describes this fast:to loose the bands of wickedness,
- to undo the heavy burdens, and
- to let the oppressed go free,
- and that ye break every yoke;
- to draw out your soul to the hungry,
- and satisfy the afflicted soul.
Here is set forth the very spirit and character of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of the world. Whether fasting in the wilderness of temptation or eating with the publicans at Matthew’s feast, He was giving His life for the redemption of the lost.
“Not in idle mourning, in mere bodily humiliation and multitudinous sacrifices, is the true spirit of devotion manifested, but it is shown in the surrender of self in willing service to God and man.” The Desire of Ages, 278.
“Let the sorrowful ones, who walk mournfully before the Lord, arise and help someone who needs help.” A Call to Medical Evangelism and Health Education, 25.
No more time should be wasted. Those who know Christ should never suffer depression or boredom. There are those in need; arise and help somebody who needs help! Remember, Christ’s whole life was one sacrifice for the saving of the world. What are you willing to give up in order to reach out to others in love and mercy?
“A legal religion can never lead souls to Christ; for it is a loveless, Christless religion. Fasting or prayer that is actuated by a self-justifying spirit is an abomination in the sight of God. The solemn assembly for worship, the round of religious ceremonies, the external humiliation, the imposing sacrifice, proclaim that the doer of these things regards himself as righteous, and as entitled to heaven; but it is all a deception. Our own works can never purchase salvation.” The Desire of Ages, 280.
Enter into the true fast—arise, reach out and help somebody!
Father: Help me to fast from myself. Show me how to reach out to others in such a way that they will receive that special blessing you have for them through me. Show me ways that will relieve the stress and burdens of another for whom You gave Your only begotten Son. Use me as an instrument of Your righteousness today. Amen.