Matthew 6:16 warns against fasting with the wrong intentions, where individuals put on a sad countenance to appear righteous before others. Jesus calls out the hypocrisy of such actions, stating that those who fast for the praise of men already have their reward. True fasting is not about external appearances, but about an inward attitude of sincerity, devotion, and obedience to God. Jesus emphasizes that our actions should not be for the approval or recognition of others, but for God alone. The reward for those who fast with a pure heart is the spiritual blessing and closeness with God that comes through their sincerity. Fasting is a spiritual discipline designed to draw us nearer to God, not to gain admiration or honor from others. By fasting with humility and devotion, we avoid the temptation to seek external validation and focus our hearts on God’s transformative work in our lives.