Daniel Rose: The Pastor Next Door

Over the past few weeks, we've explored spiritual practices to prepare ourselves for life's inevitable storms. We've delved into prayer and Scripture, and this week, we're tackling a topic that might make some of us squirm: fasting.

Most of us associate fasting with doctor's visits or perhaps a trendy diet like intermittent fasting. But today, we're discussing the spiritual discipline of fasting, as Jesus taught in Matthew 6.

Jesus's Expectation: "When You Fast..."

In the midst of his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says, "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly, I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." (Matthew 6:16-18)

Notice Jesus doesn't say "if" you fast, but "when." He expects us to engage in this practice.

Beyond Food: Understanding Abstinence

Spiritual practices fall into two categories: engagement (like prayer and Scripture study) and abstinence. Fasting is a practice of abstinence, where we intentionally remove something from our lives.

In our modern world, the idea of sacrifice can be uncomfortable. But consider this: abstaining from excess calories leads to better fitness, and abstaining from screen time can free up time for exercise. Often, what we give up results in greater gain.

What Controls You?

While fasting often brings thoughts of food to mind, it's about more than just skipping meals. It's about identifying what controls us. What do we think about throughout the day? Is it food, our schedules, media, or endless scrolling?

Jesus challenged those who followed him for physical sustenance, not spiritual growth. He asked them, "What are you chasing?"

In our lives, we may not be worried about our next meal, but we are chasing something. What has a grip on your life?

The Challenge of Addiction

When we abstain from something that controls us, we often experience discomfort, even withdrawal. That's because it's often an addiction.

Jesus warns against making a show of our fasting. He says, "Don't let anyone know." This is a personal journey between you and God.

The Reward of Transformation

Fasting is about wrestling with God, allowing Him to remove what controls us. It's about learning self-control, a fruit of the Spirit.

The goal isn't just abstinence; it's transformation. It's about freeing ourselves to engage more deeply with God and others.

Your Challenge This Week:

1. Identify what controls you. What do you orient your life around?
2. Abstain from it. For a day, a few hours, or a week, say no.

This might be food, social media, news, or even your phone.

Other Forms of Fasting:

• Solitude: Abstaining from people.
• Silence: Abstaining from speaking.

Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal what controls you and how you can abstain from it.

Keep it Secret

Remember, keep your fast between you and God, allowing Him to transform you.

We're continuing our series on spiritual practices, exploring how to live out our faith in practical ways. We've emphasized the importance of practice, how it prepares us for life's inevitable storms. Just as athletes train for game day, we need to build our spiritual foundations on solid rock.

Last week, we focused on prayer, suggesting drills like praying the Lord's Prayer daily, reading a Psalm, and practicing gratitude. I even confessed I initially resisted the gratitude exercise, but I'm so glad I tried it! Recording those daily blessings revealed God's constant presence and activity in my life. It's a powerful reminder of His sovereignty, especially when facing tough times.

Today, we're diving into another crucial practice: engaging with Scripture.

The Power of God-Breathed Words

2 Timothy 3:16-17 tells us, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Followers of Jesus are "people of the book." Scripture is a remarkable gift, the Word of God, described in Hebrews as "sharper than any two-edged sword." Our spiritual ancestors, the Jewish people, gathered to read, discuss, and ponder these texts.

Paul highlights that Scripture is useful – it actively shapes us. But many find it challenging, even intimidating. Some have even misused it as a weapon, twisting its meaning to condemn others. And let’s be honest, the idea that the Bible is just a “basic instruction manual before leaving earth” feels simplistic and misses the point.

More Than an Instruction Manual

Think about it: instruction manuals don't change lives. They don't inspire awe or challenge us to grow. Scripture, on the other hand, does all of that. As Romans 12:2 says, we need to have our minds renewed. This happens through interaction with Scripture.

Paul calls it "God-breathed." It's inspired by the Holy Spirit, working through human authors. Reading Scripture is a unique encounter. We connect with the writers and, more importantly, with the One who inspired them.

The Holy Spirit works through Scripture when we approach it in faith. Reading it as a mere historical text or instruction manual won't transform you. But even a child can be moved by God's Word.

Equipped for Every Good Work

Scripture prepares us for "every good work," for those "game day" moments when life throws its toughest challenges. It gives us words when we don't know how to pray, and it provides a framework for engaging with God.

But how do we practically engage with Scripture? Many feel overwhelmed by its complexity.

Lectio Divina: A Divine Reading

For centuries, believers have practiced "Lectio Divina," or divine reading. It's a simple yet profound method:

1. Read (Lectio): Choose a passage and read it slowly, thoughtfully, repeatedly. Let the words wash over you. Read it aloud, silently, emphasizing different phrases. As Eugene Peterson suggests, approach Scripture like a dog with its favorite bone, savoring every bit.
2. Reflect (Meditatio): Ponder the passage. Meditate on it, letting it roll around in your mind and heart. Think about each word and phrase, processing and resting in it. Carry it with you throughout the day.
3. Respond (Oratio): Journal your thoughts. Talk to someone about what you're hearing. Ask yourself, "What is God saying to me?" "How is God speaking?" Write down your responses or share them with a trusted friend.
4. Rest (Contemplatio): Rest in what God has revealed. This is the heart of Lectio Divina: to encounter God through His Word.

Practical Tips:

• Start small: Choose a short passage to begin with.
• Be consistent: Set aside a specific time each day for Lectio Divina.
• Create a quiet space: Minimize distractions to focus on God's Word.
• Be patient. It is a practice, and takes time.