City Group Guide: The Kingdom Week 8 – “Fasting”
1. Setting the Kingdom Vision (10 min)
In Matthew 6:16–18, Jesus teaches about fasting—not as a way to gain human admiration, but as a practice that cultivates humility, dependence on God, and heart-focused devotion:
“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do… But when you fast, anoint 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.”
Fasting in the Kingdom is about God seeing our hearts, not others seeing our discipline. It’s an opportunity to draw closer to Him, surrender control, and create space for spiritual focus.
Discussion:
Why do you think fasting is often associated with performance rather than devotion?
How might fasting deepen your relationship with God?
Where could God be inviting you to intentionally depend on Him this week?
(Leader note: emphasize that fasting is about connection with God, not guilt or legalism.)
2. Guide Overview: Hidden Devotion (2 min)
Fasting is a spiritual discipline that trains the heart to rely on God rather than comforts or routines. Jesus contrasts hidden fasting with public display. Tonight, we’ll explore how fasting—whether from food, habits, or distractions—can cultivate humility, prayerfulness, and Kingdom-aligned priorities.
3. Kingdom Practice: Reflection and Prayer (30 min)
Step 1: Read the Passage (5 min)
Read Matthew 6:16–18 aloud. Pause and ask: “What stands out to you about the way Jesus teaches fasting?”
Step 2: Reflect (5 min)
In quiet prayer, consider:
“Where am I relying on my own strength rather than God?”
“What might I give up this week to create space for Him?”
Consider physical fasting or other forms of intentional abstinence to focus on prayer and God’s presence.
Step 3: Share and Pray (15 min)
Invite each person to share one area where they could practice fasting or intentional abstinence. Pray together:
“Father, teach [name] to fast in a way that draws their heart closer to You. Strengthen their dependence on You and help them practice humility and devotion in secret.”
(Leader tip: model vulnerability by sharing a personal fasting goal or challenge.)
Step 4: Group Reflection (5 min)
Discuss together:
How does fasting shape our awareness of God’s provision and presence?
How might it help us respond differently to stress, temptation, or daily choices?
4. Reflection: Kingdom-Focused Discipline (5 min)
Re-read Matthew 6:18:
“…but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Reflect: Fasting invites God into the ordinary routines of life and draws our hearts toward Him. Where might God be calling you to practice hidden devotion this week?
5. Exercise for the Week Ahead (3 min)
Practice: Intentional Fasting
Choose one day or period this week to fast intentionally—whether a day, a meal or more.
Use the time to pray and focus on God’s presence. Remember to feast on God! (What a concept!!).
Reflect afterward on what God revealed or shifted in your heart.
Closing Prayer:
“Lord Jesus, You call us to seek You with humility and devotion. Teach us to fast in a way that draws our hearts closer to You, not seeking human recognition. May this practice shape our dependence, prayer, and love, reflecting Your Kingdom in our lives. Amen.”