Devotion:
Read Matthew 6:2-4.
Jesus is explaining to His disciples that there are those who can play the part of being a Christian and yet their hearts are disconnected from truly wanting to serve Christ. Their desire lies mostly in what others will think of them when they do things to help serve the church and others in need. They want to be known as one who truly has a desire to serve God, yet on the inside, their motive is to seek praise for it. Christ clearly says that we do not earn any favor from God when we serve Him with the goal of seeking praise.
Giving to the needy has always been a hallmark of God's people. But the goal of helping others is to bring honor to the name of the Lord, not to develop a name for ourselves. We are to let our light shine so God is glorified, not us. We are blessed with what we have because God wants us to share with those in need. We are here to be conduits of his blessings. Our sharing should be such an everyday part of life that we don't even think about it, much less think about others noticing that we did it. Living for God is something that our hearts should yearn to do, not because that is what will gain us spiritual points with others or with God, but because we find joy in looking to bring Glory to God with our lives.
Personal Worship Option:
Dear giving God, you are so generous with us. Please help us to be more generous with those in need and share with others. Make us instruments of your love and teach us to happily give resources, time, understanding, and love. Amen.
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