Matthew 6:19

"so that you are not seen by men to be fasting, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you."

Key Reflection

This verse teaches that true fasting should be an act of humility and devotion between the believer and God, not a public display for others' admiration. Jesus emphasizes that while human approval may bring temporary satisfaction, divine recognition and reward are far more significant.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 19. Lay not up for yourselves treasures, etc. Treasures, or wealth, among the ancients, consisted in clothes, or changes of raiment, as well as in gold, silver, gems, wine, lands, and oil. It meant an abundance of anything that was held to be conducive to the ornament or comfort of life. As the Orientalists delighted much in display, in splendid equipage, and costly garments, their treasures, in fact, consisted much in beautiful and richly ornamented articles of apparel. See Ge 45:22, where Joseph gave to his brethren changes of raiment; Jos 7:21, where Achan coveted and secreted a goodly Babylonish garment. See also Jud 14:12. This fact will account for the use of the word moth.

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