Keep Your Fasting Secret: Command #7

Let’s be clear: Jesus never explicitly commanded us to fast in the Bible. But he did assume that fasting would be part of our lives.

“And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” - Matthew 6:16-18

I’ve heard a number of people say that fasting could be abstaining for a period of time from anything you enjoy–not just food, but music, or TV, or social media; you get the idea. Is there a biblical precedent for this definition of fasting?