Isaiah 58:3
Isaiah 58:3
Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours.
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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.
Daniel 10:3
I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.
Acts 10:30
And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing.
Judges 20:26
Then all the children of Israel, and all the people, went up, and came unto the house of God, and wept, and sat there before the Lord, and fasted that day until even.
Nehemiah 1:4
And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven.