1 John 1:8-9 (ESV)

8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

The purpose of fasting in the Old Testament was a way of repenting and asking God for forgiveness.  Since Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, the reason why we would fast is now different.

We don’t have to beg for forgiveness if we have accepted the forgiveness of our sins the day we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior.  Instead, the purpose of a fast should be to draw closer to God.  To do so, we must recognize the lingering affects of our OLD sinful selves.

The apostle John shares with us, through the revelation of the Holy Spirit, an amazing truth.  He is encouraging other believers in this letter that when we repent and return to God He will not only forgive us of the sins we know about but also of any unrighteousness we don’t know about!

Application:

Don’t settle for where you are, no matter how far you’ve come in your walk with Jesus.  Be honest about your faults.  Examine your ways and open your heart so that God can go above and beyond your expectations.