Who's Praise?

Have you ever done a work or a deed, big or small, with the intention of being seen and recognized? If we are honest with ourselves, we have all fallen into this at some point in our lives. Why does the desire for recognition drive the deeds we do? If there is a task that you know won’t get you recognition, will you still do it? Jesus here is pointing to the idea of self-righteousness, as in, doing the “good Christian things,” while not doing it for the Lord, but for their own sake. This idea is pointing to the intention of the heart to be praised, rather than to direct the praise to our Heavenly Father.

You see, you can do things that the world would say is “good”, such as volunteering or giving money to the homeless. But what are you doing it for? Are you seeking to build the Kingdom of God, or your own? Everything we do in this life must be directed at giving our Heavenly Father the glory He is due. While we will fall short and forget this goal, we must be drawn back and back by the Lord’s grace, responding in seeking His glory in all things.

Respond with any questions, encouragement, or prayer requests.

In Christ.

Josh Hernandez