Our Lives on Display
I’ve often wondered about some of the photos I’ve seen of people who are doing good for others. I think it’s great that they are helping and that they are encouraging others to help as well. However, there are some photos or posts that I’ve seen that seem to have a tone of “Hey, look at me!” I don’t want to judge anyone’s heart, however, I can’t help but wonder at some of them. Do not give to be seen.
When we help others, it should be because we have a genuine love for others. Not for brownie points and status. Unfortunately, in our day, so much of our lives is put on display. I do believe that it’s just the nature of some people to put everything out there. However, if you’re helping due to selfish reasons, your reward will only be here on earth.
“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. 2 “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Matthew 6: 1-4
What Are My Motives?
When I do things to help, I often catch myself doing things to show others that I’m going out. I question the motives behind those actions. I want to help others and I have always done so. But, why do I want to post it? Am I asking others to come help? Am I showing others that there is a need? Do I want to be recognized for my actions?
Asking those questions really puts my actions into context. There are times when I want others to help me or show that there is a need, so I’ll post. However, if that isn’t the case, I keep it to myself and just help. It’s not the actions that are wrong, just check your motives behind it.
The same goes for prayer. Again, praying in public does not bother me at all. However, there are times where it seems to be a production for others to see rather than a genuine call to God. I’m honestly happy to see people praying, however, we are also to be cautious regarding our motives for public prayer.
5 “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Matthew 6: 5-6
Hypocrisy or a Genuine Thing
If you’re just trying to be seen, you’re seen as a hypocrite. God knows your heart. I pray throughout the day. However, you really wouldn’t know it. I often wonder if people think that I’ve zoned out because I’m looking down and being completely still. I’m praying, but trying to keep it private. If I’m praying with another, I may hold her hand or touch her arm, but my voice is quiet if we’re in public. I’m not trying to make it a production, I’m reaching out to God.
Again, it’s the motive behind your action, not the way you do it. If your heart wants to shout out to the Lord in public, by all means, do so! I may join you and pray with you or over you!
Have a blessed and prosperous week!
The Bible Translations is from the NIV
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