Free Reading Plans and Devotionals related to Matthew 6:16

Fasting may be the least-discussed spiritual discipline in the church. But Jesus not only spoke about fasting, he also fasted, as did many of the heroes of the faith. So, what is fasting? Should Christians still fast today? Should you fast? What are the benefits of fasting? Are we really supposed to keep our fast private? And how are you supposed to fast?

Have you been considering a fast? Let’s look at some examples of fasting in Scripture, the reasons for fasting, and the different types of fasts, along with how to fast and how not to fast. This plan shares some important information about fasting from a biblical perspective, not a worldly one. Be sure to be praying about if this is something God is calling you to do.

At times, our Christian walk can seem complex, but fortunately enough we have been provided with a powerful guide -- scripture. Returning to the fundamentals of Christianity, we see the disciplines that the Lord established to shape our lives. This plan will explore four key basic practices that serve as the building blocks for disciples of Christ. These practices provide a firm foundation for a life centered on Christ.

Juggling work and parenting comes with well-known challenges, one of which is prioritizing time with God: Your quiet time either doesn’t happen or doesn’t feel as fulfilling as you’d like it to be. In this plan, we’ll discuss how to keep God first and make Him part of your day, whether you’re working on your business, side hustle, or parenting your kid(s).

Being in mission with Jesus can involve many activities (church planting, disciple-making, evangelism, etc.). It can take place in different places (large cities, small towns, remote rural villages). But amid that diversity of tasks and locations, there is one essential element for every all-in missional follower of Jesus: wholeness of heart. More important than the going and the doing is the being—being people with hearts of integrity, hearts with a singular loyalty, hearts that have been formed, reformed, and transformed by the Holy Spirit as he makes us more and more like Jesus.

Do you feel so busy that you barely have enough time to breathe? You are not alone. The 5-5-5 Method is a simple and practical method that eliminates the excuse that you’re too busy to spend time with God; because even the wealthiest, most influential, time-consumed individuals still have 15 minutes of spare time each day to prioritize what they love. And so do you. Do you love Jesus enough to spend 15 minutes of your day with Him? Click "Start Plan" now and learn how to spend time with God daily!

Wanting to start a fast but don't think you have the encouragement or structure to do it alone? Here are a few daily tips that will encourage you, alongside Biblical insights to guide you on the proper way to fast.

Do you feel so busy that you barely have enough time to breathe? You are not alone. The 5-5-5 Method is a simple and practical method that eliminates the excuse that you’re too busy to spend time with God; because even the wealthiest, most influential, time-consumed individuals still have 15 minutes of spare time each day to prioritize what they love. And so do you and your friends. Do you love Jesus enough to spend 15 minutes of your day with Him? Click "Start Plan," then "With Friends," and learn together how to spend time with God!

What does real success look like in God’s kingdom? In this 5-day plan, discover Jesus’ teachings on humility, forgiveness, compassion, and living for God rather than the approval of others.

Biblical fasting is a spiritual discipline that Jesus Himself encouraged while He was on earth. (Matthew 6:17-18) It refers to voluntary abstaining from food and drink for a specific period and for spiritual purposes (humbling yourself to seek God’s face.) (Read Isaiah 58.) We hope that this plan will help you as you plan your prayer and fasting season in 2026 and beyond.

It’s important to know Jesus and what is important to Him so we understand our need for Him. Reflecting on what Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount, will help us draw closer to Him. This is part six of eight in the "Jesus, I Need You" series by Thistlebend Ministries. These plans can be done in any order. See also" Jesus, I Need You" (companion prayer).

Matthew writes to God’s people and walks them on a journey that will take them from where they are to being Disciple Makers.  This is the 6th of 27 devotional plans walking us through the book of Matthew.  Jesus describes the three disciplines of His Kingdom rules.  The three disciplines of Giving, Praying and Fasting are laid out for us.  We also begin the “Do’s and Don’ts” of Kingdom living. 

This week, we will talk about a subject few enjoy bringing up...fasting! Many people believe it is surely good for others, "but not for me." Let's take a look at what the Bible says about fasting and praying. You will discover practical ways on how to start with something Jesus also did a lot!

You raised your hand. You said a prayer, opened your heart to the Gospel for the first time. Maybe you heard the truth for the first time, or maybe you have known it for years and finally decided that it was time to take a step of faith. You are not alone, but NOW WHAT? This is a six-day devotional that will walk you through what to do next.

This study will be a deep dive into The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), one of Jesus' most direct and challenging teachings directed primarily to his disciples. We will ask the Holy Spirit to be our teacher as we read a chapter each day using only the Word as our devotion.

The Bible talks about three eternally steadfast things amongst the shifting sands of society and from age to age - Faith, Love, and Hope. This reading plan is centered around the growth of your faith, the deepening of your love, and the assurance of your hope.

Prayer and fasting involve voluntarily refraining from food to focus on prayer and deepen one's connection with God. While they can occur separately, their combination enhances effectiveness. Setting aside time for prayer and fasting is not about manipulating God for personal desires; it’s a deliberate choice to center oneself and depend on Him for strength, provision, and wisdom in the humility of heart. Together, they cultivate spiritual growth and deepen faith.

As we enter the season of Lent, the 40 days of spiritual preparation leading up to Easter, let's sit with Jesus on the mountainside and listen with open hearts to His teaching found in Matthew chapters 5-7.

Pulling back the curtain to see the connection between film and faith. Reel Dialogue is a creative dialogue between the Christian faith and entertainment culture. (Yes, even military films) We provide film reviews, downloadable discussion guides, resources and events. Let's get the dialogue started on film. These conversation starters will help you start faith discussions with friends through the beauty of film.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst... A close, personal relationship with God is such a necessity in the world that we live. If a closer walk is what you desire, this devotional will point you in the right direction. Each day contains a word of encouragement, challenge, prayer, and scriptures to help you on this journey. Join me on this exciting journey! Full iHunger devotional available on Amazon.com.

Why are you doing that? “Um, because I can do all things through Christ!” We love to quote our favorite verses to inspire each other—but sometimes, those verses get Twisted. This Bible Plan from Life.Church examines seven of the most butchered Bible verses. Start reading today and learn to live out God’s plans for you.

 As children of God, we have been given a new home and a new hope. And when we learn to live for heaven, the cares and weights of this world fall off our shoulders in light of our place in God’s advancing Kingdom. In this 7-day plan, you’ll create space every day to cast your burdens at the feet of Jesus, and rejoice in the hope of the eternal life you’re already living in God. 

We all have a sense that prayer is important, but few of us are actually taught to pray. What does it mean to pray? How does one do it? Prayer shows up in stories and letters as a vital practice, but how do we actual do it well? This seven day plan will help you understand what prayer is and how to engage with this life-changing practice.

Do you feel like you’re stuck in a slump? Are you feeling burnt out as a leader? This 7-day leadership plan with excerpts from John C. Maxwell will help you hit the reset button on being a Godly leader. Reset your heart and refocus on being the best leader you can be through Christ. 

We’re all chasing something. Usually something just out of reach—a better job, a more comfortable home, a perfect family, the approval of others. But isn’t this tiring? Is there a better way? Find out in this new Life.Church Bible Plan, accompanying Pastor Craig Groeschel’s message series, Chasing Carrots.