Jesus Sees Our Motives

Matthew 6:1-15

Jesus commands His followers to find their satisfaction and security in God rather than anything else. Whether we are giving to the needy or praying, Jesus wants His disciples to avoid outward displays that bring praise to ourselves. He also warns us against trying to use robotic routines in order to get God to do what we want. Giving to the needy and praying should result from trust in God’s Fatherly affection, and when we do these things secretly it is a sign that we have a healthy confidence in Him. Following Christ’s instructions here will help protect us from doing these things with self-absorbed and greedy motives.

Questions for further thought:
1. Why do you give?
2. Describe a time when you were craving some form of appreciation that you thought was coming and never did. What did God teach you through that experience?

Challenge: Here is a good check of motivation. With your next good deed ask, “Would I still do this if no one would ever know I did it?”