Vital Signs: Monday, May 5, 2025

The Secret Place

“God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.”—Matthew 5:8 (NLT)

What attitudes and motives should we have during fasting?

Your heart attitude truly matters. You can do the right things for the wrong reasons. Prayer and fasting are private disciplines that lead to public reward. In Scripture, Jesus emphasized fasting as a personal and hidden journey. There is no badge of honor for how much you suffer during your fast. When we’re motivated by others’ perceptions, we risk forfeiting the spiritual reward. Since God honors those who are pure in heart, this season is a perfect time for an attitude check.

Value the process that takes place in your secret place. When Daniel fasted and prayed, no one witnessed his relentless commitment—but heaven did. Behind the scenes, an angel of God was fighting for him. It was Daniel’s secret perseverance that ultimately led to his breakthrough.

Humility in prayer cancels self-dependence in fasting. A lack of personal prayer is often a subtle form of pride. Though our excuses may sound reasonable, the root issue is the belief that we can manage life without God. Yes, prayer and fasting can be physically and emotionally demanding—but resist the temptation to be consumed by your own journey, struggles, and requests. Don’t wait for a crisis to humble yourself before God.

God is the best guide when it comes to shaping your heart to be more like His. Invite Him into your hidden places. Allow Him to influence your motives and correct your attitudes. He may prompt repentance in order to purify your heart. This, too, is a private work. Not every revelation is meant to be shared right away. Some of God’s most powerful impressions require time to mature. When you take care of the shadows, God will handle the spotlight.

These heart attitudes matter beyond this season. Let the prayer habits you build now shape a lasting lifestyle of dependence on God. Keep your heart humble. Invite Him daily into the secret place—where real transformation begins.