HUMBLE RECIPROCITY
“Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
Luke 18:10-14 (NIV)
What shall I return to the LORD for all His goodness to me?
Psalm 116:12 (NIV)
HUMBLE
In Luke 18, the Pharisee (religious leader), comparing himself to the tax collector, pridefully bragged about fasting twice a week. While the tax collector realized his sin and humbly sought God’s mercy. Fasting should always be done humbly, with God in His rightful place as Lord. If you feel you haven’t been able to sense His presence in your life, fasting could be one way to renew your connection. Other reasons for fasting include repentance, expressing sorrow or grief, dedicating something or someone to the Lord, becoming more attuned or dependent on God, for help while fighting a battle, for preparation for battle, and for safety. Fasting keeps us humble before the Lord.
RECIPROCITY
Psalm 116 was most likely written by King David and expresses gratitude toward God. God saved him from physical harm, from his enemies and encouraged David’s heart when he was at his lowest. Like David, God also does so much for us. Like most relationships, it’s not one-sided, where one gives and the other receives—it’s reciprocal.
Most days, I’m thankful for all God has done in my life. I try to grow closer to Him through journaling, prayer, and spending time with others who love Him, too. These are called spiritual disciplines, and they help deepen our relationship with God. Some others include Bible study, giving, worship, solitude and fasting.
Why not take a step of faith and add fasting to the habits you already share with God? It’s a simple, reciprocal way to give back and draw closer to Him.
APPLICATION: What steps are you taking toward a deeper relationship with God? Consider how fasting could enhance your worship and dependence on Him.
PRAYER: Father, You have been so good to me. Help me humble myself through fasting, and may it bless You in return. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?