Matthew 6:1

Matthew 6:1 (ESV): “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.”

Everyone loves receiving an award. Sadly, many pursue the inferior prize—the praise of man. Instead, we should desire the eternal reward that God gives to those who commit their good works to be seen by Him alone.

Jesus reminds His followers of the great reward that awaits them in heaven for the deeds they do with the right motive—those done for God’s eyes, not man’s. He is not saying that deeds seen by others disqualify a person from reward, but rather deeds done to be seen by others. Jesus said that if you “blow the trumpet” to draw attention to yourself, then you have already received your reward. Instead, we are to do our good works so that God is glorified (Matt. 5:16).

Do you desire the praise of man? If we are honest, we all appreciate recognition from time to time—that is part of our flesh. But we must not fall into that trap. The issue is not others acknowledging what God is doing in your life; the issue is when you take the glory that belongs to Him. Be quick to give glory to God whenever you are praised. That is how you store up rewards in heaven. Amen?

Father, You deserve the praise for anything praiseworthy in our lives. Help us to be quick to give You the glory. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.