Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Listen to the Word

Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. (Matthew 6:1)

Jesus says we shouldn’t expect a reward from God for acts of righteousness that we do to try to impress others. When you think about it, it makes total sense. If you pray an impressive public prayer designed to amaze the congregation with your profound spiritual insight, you aren’t really talking to God. You are just putting on a show. You have chosen not to involve God, so God politely stands aside while you do your thing. The same applies for giving, and fasting, and serving, and other good deeds done for the sake of image management.

God richly rewards the things we do for him. But when we do things for the applause of people, we may get that applause, but it will be the only reward we receive.

Live the Word

As an act of secret service, pray for someone you know who is struggling. Don’t tell that person or anyone else what you have done.