Im currently reading the New Testament of the Bible and Jesus shares profound wisdom about several topics. When I’m reading the Bible, I automatically notice patterns and connections within scriptures – it’s how God wired me and I love it.
I’m a millennial and statistics say we enjoy receiving rewards, recognition, bonuses and praises when we are working. While reading the Bible, I notice there were a couple things if we do them in secret, our Heavenly Father God will reward us. I don’t know about you, but I want to be rewarded by God – sounds like a bonus!
So here’s the three things:
- When you give to the needy, do it privately.
“But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:3-4 ESV
- Pray to your Father in private.
“But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:6 ESV
- When you fast anoint your head and wash your face.
“But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” Matthew 6:17-18 ESV
I believe the theme of these scriptures is saying don’t be boastful about giving to the needy, your prayers or even about fasting. The purpose of giving to the needy, prayer and fasting is to be closer to God and not to complete kingdom activities to be acknowledged by others.
Have you checked your motives to ensure when you do the following things it isn’t for the praise of people. Let us each examine our own hearts.