April 20: Weekly Focus
April - Fasting
Fasting is the practice of giving up food or another form of comfort to seek God in a deeper way. It is not about earning God’s approval but about drawing near to Him with humility and dependence. Through fasting, we remember that our true nourishment comes from God alone, and we make space to listen more fully to His voice. This month we focus on fasting as a way of realigning our hearts with God after the joy of Easter, grounding ourselves in His presence and provision.
Week of April 20- Week 16
Reading:
16And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. 17But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. 18Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Matthew 6:16–18 (NLT)
Jesus reminds us that fasting is about God, not about impressing others. True fasting is private, humble, and seen by the Father who rewards what is done in secret.
Reflection Questions:
1. What warnings does Jesus give about fasting?
2. How can fasting become more about God and less about appearances?
3. What motivates you when you fast?
4. How does God’s promise of reward encourage you to fast faithfully?
5. How can fasting help you live with integrity before God?
Why this matters for life today:
Fasting can help us reset our priorities. It is not just about skipping meals but about returning to God with sincerity. When we give Him our attention, we find He is gracious, patient, and eager to meet us with love.
Take it Deeper:
- True fasting means caring for the oppressed, hungry, and needy.
6No, this is the kind of fasting I want: Free those who are wrongly imprisoned; lighten the burden of those who work for you. Let the oppressed go free and remove the chains that bind people. 7Share your food with the hungry and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help. Isaiah 58:6–7 (NLT)
- Anna worshiped God with fasting and prayer faithfully for many years. He rewarded her faithfulness when she was the first witness that Jesus was the Messiah at the temple.
36Anna, a prophet, was also there in the Temple. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. Her husband died when they had been married only seven years. 37Then she lived as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the Temple but stayed there day and night, worshiping God with fasting and prayer. Luke 2:36–37 (NLT)