Wednesday, May 8, 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)

At first glance, this week’s Scripture seems to contradict a command Jesus gives in Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds.” What is the deal?

Both verses actually address the same root problem: the tendency to worry too much about your approval ratings with the people around you - the temptation to tailor your discipleship to the expectations of others. In situations where you are inclined to downplay your connection to Christ for the sake of your image, Jesus challenges you to let your light shine. In situations where you are tempted to show off and impress others with your faith, Jesus challenges you not to do your deeds in order to be seen. In both cases, Jesus wants you to ignore the crowd and forget about what makes you look good to other people. He wants you to live naturally for Him, without shame and without pretense.

Live the Word

Are you more frequently tempted to hide your faith or to show it off? Ask for God’s forgiveness, and ask him to change you.