True Fasting – A Heart Surrendered to God

 

Lenten Devotional – Day 3

Scripture Readings:

• Isaiah 58:1- 9a
• Psalm 51:1-5, 17-18
• Matthew 9:14-15

Reflection 

As we journey through Lent, we are reminded that fasting is not merely about abstaining from food but about aligning our hearts with God’s will. In Isaiah 58, the Lord rebukes Israel for their empty religious practices. Though they fasted, their hearts remained far from God. They oppressed others, pursued selfish interests, and expected their fasting to manipulate God’s favor. But the Lord declares what He truly desires:

"Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?" (Isaiah 58:6)

This passage calls us to a fast that transforms—not just a ritual of deprivation, but a surrender that changes how we live, love, and serve others. True fasting leads to repentance, justice, and acts of mercy.

Psalm 51 echoes this heart posture, as David cries out, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." (Psalm 51:10). Lent is a season for God to refine us, break our pride, and rebuild us with His mercy. He does not delight in empty sacrifices but in a contrite heart.

In Matthew 9, Jesus explains that His disciples did not fast while He was with them, but the time would come when they would. That time is now. Our fasting is not just about mourning sin, but longing for Christ’s presence. It is a time of spiritual hunger for more of Him, a yearning for His righteousness to be formed in us.

Application

1. Are you fasting in a way that pleases God, or just going through the motions?
2. In what ways can you use this season to practice justice, kindness, and generosity?
3. Is your fasting leading to true repentance and a deeper intimacy with God?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we seek You in this season of Lent, help us to fast with hearts surrendered to You. Purify our motives, strip away our self-righteousness, and renew a right spirit within us. May our fasting not just be an outward act, but an inner transformation that draws us closer to You and leads us to love others as You do. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Let us walk in a fast that pleases God, a fast that transforms our hearts and actions!