Matthew 6:16-18 – What not to do when we are fasting

The issue in these three verses is about having the right motive when we are engaged in a fast. This theme is similar to what we see in Matthew 6:1-6 concerning giving and praying. Fasting is something a person should do in conjunction with prayer and devotion. Jesus expects His followers to fast periodically. His words were “whenever you fast…” and not “If you fast….” Hence we surmise that fasting is part and parcel of a Christian’s devotion.

The issue Jesus is addressing is the motive that some people would have during periods of fasting. Instead of making fasting a personal devotion and a personal time with God, some people would make fasting a public show. Hairs, and possibly beards, would be disheveled, unkempt and entangled, and even the face would be coated with ashes. As a result, fasting becomes a drama and a farce. It becomes like an act of a dramatist with a mask on. This is what hypocrites would do. The whole plot is carried out to draw the attention of men. 

During periods of fasting, Jesus advocates that we should act and behave as we usually would. We must have our face cleansed and hair properly combed. (And even head anointed with oil, which was commonly done in the time of Jesus). We should put our focus on God and not on someone or something else. Jesus’ instruction is for us to make our fasting a matter between God and us. When that’s our motive, we will be enriched in Him.