Why We Do The Things We Do?

“Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” (Matthew 6:18–19, NIV 1984). 

My Musings – This promise comes after three examples of some “acts of righteousness:” giving to the needy, praying to God, and fasting.  How do we square this with “by this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another?”  (John 13:35, NIV 1984). How will “all men” know this if our “acts of righteousness:” are not seen by them?

The answer, I believe is this: “Be careful not to do your ‘acts of righteousness’ before men, to be seen by them.” (Matthew 6:1, NIV 1984).  If our motive is “to be seen,” (i.e., bring glory and honor to us), then that is all it is — “acts of righteousness.”  All for show, not acts of service to our fellow man or acts of worship to our God.

My Advice – It is good periodically to examine our motives for why we do the things that we do.  Often, our true character is best revealed by what we do (or continue to do), when (if) no one is looking.

Author: thebrewisamusing

I was raised in a Christian family and my earliest childhood memories include regular Sunday school and Church attendance as a family. I was taught that our Judeo-Christian values were not just a part of our Sunday routine they should be part of our character and influence all aspects of our lives. I was also taught that as important as these values were they could not save us. We must also be “born again” by accepting Christ. View all posts by thebrewisamusing