SERVING IN SECRET
"Watch out! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give to someone in need, don't do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you."
Matthew 6:1-4 (NLT)
In today's world, where social media often fuels the desire for public recognition, it's easy to fall into the trap of seeking praise for our good deeds. After all, if we don't document things for everyone to like or comment on, did it even happen? However, Jesus calls us to a different standard—one where the intention of our hearts matters more than the applause of others.
Imagine you're in a coffee shop and see someone struggling to pay for their order. You feel compelled to help, so you quietly hand the cashier a few extra dollars to cover the cost. Now, you have a choice. Do you take a picture of the receipt and post it on Instagram with a caption about how good it feels to help others? Or do you simply walk away, knowing you've done something kind without needing anyone else to know about it?
Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:1-4 that our acts of righteousness should be done in secret, not for the praise of others, but for the approval of our Heavenly Father. When we seek recognition for our good deeds, we have already received our reward in full—the fleeting praise of people. However, when we give in secret, God, who sees what is done in private, will reward us in ways that are eternal.
Many years ago, there was a worship song by Big Daddy Weave called Audience of One. The chorus goes like this:
To my audience of one, You are Father, and you are Son As your spirit flows free, Let it find within me A heart that beats to praise you.
And now just to know you more, has become my great reward To see your kingdom come and your will be done I only desire to be yours, Lord
May we live for our audience of One.
APPLICATION: How can you serve and love others quietly this week—without drawing attention to yourself?
PRAYER: God, be honored in my life. Help me to love others as You have loved me. In Jesus' name, amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?