Matthew 6

How to Fast

16 "Whenever you fast, don’t be gloomy like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces* 6:15–16 Is 58:5; Mt 18:35; Jms 2:13so that their fasting is obvious to people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward.17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face,* 6:17 Ru 3:3; 2Sm 12:20; Dn 10:318 so that your fasting isn’t obvious to others but to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.* 6:18 Other mss add openly