Fasting and Prayer - The Reward
When Jesus taught on Fasting it was from the prospective that we would fast. It was assumed that fasting was a part of our spiritual experience. He said 'when you fast' and then he went on to give specific expectations of fasting. Jesus told us not to fast like the leaders of that day. It seems they made a public spectacle of themselves because this is what Jesus said.... "Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting" (Matthew 6:16). So it seems that their primary focus was what they appeared to be doing rather than what they should have been doing and that was to be in communion with God,  having a very personal and spiritual experience. Jesus goes on to say  in verse 17, "Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward". Reward? Is there a reward for fasting? In verse 20 we are told that we are to lay up treasures in heaven - thus we can determine that as we fast (turn away from the world) and turn toward God we are investing in our eternal accounts in heaven. Fasting should be an eternal experience we should anticipate a personal spiritual payoff.
So, what is the process for the obtaining the reward of our time with God? Jesus tells us very specifically "But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, anoint your head and was your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly",v17. It is the reward that is to become evident to everyone not the fasting. The outcome of your fasting and prayer will not only render an eternal reward for you but also a testimony to all those who see what God reveals through your life. Your testimony of your blessing will reveal God's glory and grace - the greatest spiritual reward one can receive. When you are asked how is it that you have received this blessing? Your truthful  response must be God did it!