Isaiah 58:3 addresses a common frustration experienced by those who fast, questioning why their fasting seems unnoticed by God. The people express that, despite afflicting their souls, they feel God does not respond to their sacrifices. However, God reveals that true fasting involves humility, repentance, and obedience to Him, not merely outward acts of suffering. The people’s fast was hypocritical because they sought their own pleasure and continued to oppress others. This teaches us that fasting is not just about personal deprivation but about aligning our hearts with God’s will and His righteousness. True fasting involves turning from sin and committing to love, justice, and mercy, demonstrating a sincere heart before God. When we fast, it is an act of submission to God, not a way to seek attention or manipulate His will. God sees our hearts, and it is only through genuine repentance, humility, and obedience that our fast becomes meaningful and brings us closer to Him.