We are all quick to Quote Matthew 6 to justify our spiritual motives. When giving, praying or fasting don’t be like the hypocrites…for they have received their reward in full.
As “good” Christians we sometimes fail to do what is good for the sake of our humble image.
Which is better; to do good even though others may see, or to do no good so that others can’t see?
To train for an athletic event you will have to condition your body for whatever sport you are preparing for. Lifting weights, exercise and diet can make you feel proud and arrogant with a much leaner and stronger physique. Making a big show of your efforts may give you temporary gratification. On the other hand, failing to prepare and not doing the work at the risk that others may take notice, gets you absolutely nothing. At least the first man will come prepared to compete.
Luke was told that this week everyone would be getting an unexpected bonus check in addition to the regular paycheck. He could wait to call his wife and tell her the good news. Things had been a little tight for them financially, and they both agreed that God was blessing them. Luke tried to plan how they would spend their bonus money, not just for bills but maybe something special like a plasma TV. On Wednesday Luke began feeling a nudge from the Holy Spirit to give it all away. They could bless others in a way they couldn't normally do. After all this was bonus money, they could go on as if they never even received it. He thought about the mission team going to Haiti, or a man from church that just lost his job again. Luke then remembered the verse about the left hand knowing about what the right hand was doing. You’re not supposed to let people know when you do good things, right? He was troubled because they had already told several people about the money. So because Luke did not want to receive his reward in full and make a show of his generosity, he said nothing and kept the money for himself.
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