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Isaiah 58:5 · KJV

"Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD?"

King James Version

What does Isaiah 58:5 mean? →

Passage Context

3Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours.
4Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high.
5Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD?
6Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?
7Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?

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Reflection Questions

1

What does an acceptable fast look like for you?

2

How do you differentiate between ritual and true worship?

3

When have you felt your worship was not genuine?

Life Application

faith

Seek to understand what God desires from you in your worship, focusing on authenticity rather than mere rituals.

self-reflection

Evaluate your spiritual practices to ensure they are aligned with God's heart and not just traditions.

Connection to Jesus

gospel theme

Jesus' ministry emphasized justice and compassion for the oppressed, which aligns with the call in Isaiah for true fasting that helps others.

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