Episode 11: The Rewards of Fasting

In this episode, Brian continues exploring Jesus' teaching from Matthew 6 by focusing on the spiritual discipline of fasting. Just as Jesus said "when you pray," He also said "when you fast," showing that fasting is meant to be a normal part of a believer's life. Brian explains that fasting isn't about drawing attention to ourselves, but about humbling our hearts and focusing on God. He also clarifies that fasting can take many forms—giving up food, media, or other distractions—in order to intentionally seek the Lord. Using examples from Scripture including Daniel, Esther, Ezra, and Jesus, Brian highlights five rewards that often accompany fasting: spiritual insight, favor in difficult situations, stronger faith, resistance to temptation, and deeper humility. This episode serves as a practical introduction and encouragement to begin incorporating fasting into your life as a way to walk closer with God.   Key Topics Discussed Jesus' teaching on fasting in Matthew 6 Fasting as a spiritual discipline alongside prayer and generosity The importance of fasting in secret rather than for recognition Different forms of fasting (food, media, speech, and other distractions) Biblical examples of fasting from Daniel, Esther, Ezra, and Jesus Five rewards of fasting: insight, favor, faith, resistance to temptation, and humility Personal testimony about fasting and prayer The role of humility in the Christian life   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 6:16–18 – Jesus' teaching on fasting in secret Daniel 5:12 – Daniel's wisdom and spiritual insight Acts 9:9–18 – Paul fasting after his encounter with Christ Esther 4:15–16 – Esther calling a fast before approaching the king Ezra 8:21–23 – Ezra proclaiming a fast for protection and guidance Matthew 4:1–11 – Jesus fasting and resisting temptation in the wilderness Isaiah 58 – The heart of true fasting James 4:10 – Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up