“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.” (Matt. 6:1)
Expanded Passage: Matthew 6:1-4
In the American TV game show Minute to Win It, contestants engage in a number of 60-second challenges to win as much of the $250,000 prize money as they can. As the players continue, the host will occasionally ask if they want to keep going or go home. Never have I seen anyone take less when more is available to gain. They are keeping their eyes on the possibility for more.
We are told it is more blessed to give than to receive. So, to gain more in the end I should give away more, right? Not so fast, Jesus says. Jesus is not against us giving to the needy. This is precisely why he is warning us about giving with the wrong motives. We are his hands and feet on the earth. Therefore, every act of service must be done through him and for him. Jesus is addressing a common motive for giving that seeks to be seen and acknowledged in public. Simply put, Jesus is saying that if you are giving so people can applaud your generosity, you are canceling your Father's reward. We are not to be concerned if we are appreciated for a deed done, but rather be appreciative of the opportunity to serve on our Father’s behalf.
Choose “the more” that Jesus has in store.
Iona Halliday-Simmonds is a wife, mother, and member of The Wesleyan Church who finds great pleasure in serving in community outreach and youth and family ministries.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
