How can we avoid making our deeds "to be seen by men" today? Setting the Scene: Matthew 23:5 “ ‘All their deeds are done for men to see. They broaden their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels.’ ” The Heart Issue: Applause versus Obedience • The Lord’s concern is not merely the deed itself but the motive behind it. • When recognition becomes the goal, even good works become self-promotion. • Our calling is to live before God’s face first, trusting Him to reward what is done in secret. Practical Guardrails for Hidden Obedience • Begin each day in private worship; settle the audience question before stepping outside. • Choose at least one act of service weekly that nobody will know about except the recipient and God. • Give financially without attaching your name (online options, anonymous envelopes, etc.). • Limit self-referencing on social media; let the story of Christ, not your achievements, take center stage. • When thanked publicly, redirect the credit: “Praise the Lord—He provided the opportunity.” • Invite a trusted believer to ask about your motives; hidden sins wither under loving accountability. • End the day with a quiet review: “Father, was I seeking Your glory or mine?” Scriptures That Anchor Us • Matthew 6:1-4 — “Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them… your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” • 1 Corinthians 10:31 — “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” • Colossians 3:23-24 — “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” • 1 Samuel 16:7 — “Man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” • Galatians 1:10 — “If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Red Flags of Performative Religion • Disappointment when no one notices your effort. • Exaggerating numbers, results, or sacrifices. • Restlessness until you can post, tweet, or mention what you’ve done. • Serving eagerly when a crowd is present but dragging your feet when anonymity is guaranteed. • Feeling threatened by others’ praise because it steals your spotlight. A Life Hidden in Christ A quiet, steadfast faithfulness shapes us into the likeness of Jesus, who “made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant” (Philippians 2:7). He sees, He remembers, and He rewards. Living for His approval alone frees us from the exhausting pursuit of human applause and allows our light to shine—whether or not anyone else is watching. |
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