Daily Manna: Facing The Right Way Monday 17, March 2014 TEXT: MATTHEW 9:14-26 Key verse: “Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not?” (Matthew 9:14). Christianity does not equate with legalistic rituals. Instead, it reasonably allows for much simplicity, varieties, flexibility and faith in such a degree that grace provides all things for believers in Christ Jesus. Like other teachings in the scriptures, the doctrine of fasting and its appropriateness in our day-to-day living must be well understood lest we fall into the extremities and fanaticism of man’s religion. The disciples of John the Baptist came asking Jesus “why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not?” In answer to their question, the Lord gave a number of illustrations to show the superiority of “grace” over the “law”. Like the disciples of John the Baptist and the Pharisees, many religious people today subject their followers to the rigorous practice of abstinence from food and water as a mark of piety, choosing particular dates, seasons, or times, irrespective of the people’s physical, spiritual and emotional disposition. But in Christ, there is no basis for such observances. Instead, fasting accompanied always with prayer, is part of a Christian’s normal spiritual exercise. It should then be conducted in such a manner that reflects sobriety, seriousness and sanctity. When we fast, our souls are afflicted in expression of our helplessness, so that we are able to pray earnestly to God. Great problems and difficulties are solved through fasting and prayer. Such are some of the benefits of fasting that we take delight in, while engaging in it as the need arises. THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Man shall not live by bread alone.
Posted on: Mon, 17 Mar 2014 10:11:38 +0000
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