Today we continue the series, Looking at Questions in God’s Word,...

... and because we are supposed to be fasting we will talk about that. Isaiah 58:3 (NKJV) 'Why have we fasted,' they say, 'and You have not seen? Why have we afflicted our souls, and You take no notice?' "In fact, in the day of your fast you find pleasure, And exploit all your laborers. The first question in God’s Word we will be looking at today is Why Have We Fasted? We have a tendency to look at the what and God looks at the why. 

1. The people’s questions. The hearts of people back then are really no different than people today. The people were frustrated with God because, in their minds, they had fasted and prayed and God had not answered their prayers. Why have we fasted? I personally believe it is okay to ask God questions if we are sincere. My God, my God why have you forsaken Me? They forgot God’s promises are conditional. The children of Israel wanted the blessings of praying and fasting but the failed to meet God’s conditions.

2. God’s Questions. Isaiah 58:4-5 (NLT2) “What good is fasting when you keep on fighting and quarreling? This kind of fasting will never get you anywhere with Me. You humble yourselves by going through the motions of penance, bowing your heads like reeds bending in the wind. You dress in burlap and cover yourselves with ashes. Is this what you call fasting? Do you really think this will please the LORD?” God says what good is your fasting when you keep fighting with each other. What are you saying, Pastor Rick? Not me, God. The Lord says it matters how you treat each other.

3. God’s questions and sincere answers to true fasting. Isaiah 58:6-7 (NKJV) "Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh? God wants our fasting and praying to be pro-active. What do you mean, Pastor Rick? Fasting is more than just doing without food, it is how you treat those who are bound, those who are hungry, and to care for your family. Amen.