SEEN BY GOD ALONE
Rashawn Nance
Today’s Scripture: “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 6:1, ESV
Theme: Keep an eternal perspective, doing the right thing for God’s approval only.
THE TEMPTATION TO BE NOTICED
We live in a world where applause is just a click away. Social media, recognition at work, and even compliments from friends can make us crave validation. It’s easy to slip into doing good things—serving, giving, helping—not just because they’re right, but because we hope someone will notice. Jesus knew this temptation. He saw how easily we can shift from a heart of genuine love to a desire for attention and praise.
GOD LOOKS AT THE HEART
Jesus’ words from today’s Scripture remind us that God isn’t impressed by outward displays. What matters most is the motive behind our actions. Are we doing good to draw closer to God, or is it also to look good in front of others? God sees what’s hidden—the quiet acts of kindness, the sacrifices no one else notices, the prayers whispered in secret. He sees the heart that longs for His approval above all.
LIVING FOR AN ETERNAL REWARD
The pursuit of righteousness can be beautiful, but it’s often a trap. Too easily, we find ourselves doing [good] things for the pleasure of affirmation from people rather than for the Lord. The cars we drive, the homes we purchase, even the way we worship—sometimes these choices are more about seeking approval from others or satisfying ourselves than bringing glory to God. It’s easy to get stuck on the ever-demanding hamster wheel of life—working hard, striving for more, but never truly reaching our goal because our path is flawed. I speak from experience: living right isn’t something that happens automatically. It’s a daily commitment, a daily promise, and a daily reflection on what truly matters at the end of this earthly life.
It’s natural to want affirmation, but Jesus calls us to something deeper: an eternal perspective. Applause from people is fleeting, but God’s reward is everlasting. When we shift our focus from earthly recognition to God’s approval, it is a motive change. Our joy comes from knowing we’ve pleased our Father, even if no one else ever sees. In the end, it’s His “well done” that matters most.
Make It Personal: Choosing to live for God’s approval over the world’s is a journey that requires constant honesty with ourselves and with God. Each day, we have to pause and ask: “Who am I doing this for?” It’s not about perfection, but about continually re-centering our hearts on Him—seeking His “well done” above all else.
Pray: Father, forgive me for the times I’ve craved the praise of people more than Your approval. Help me to keep my eyes on You and to do what’s right for Your sake alone. Give me a heart that seeks to honor You in secret and in public. Let my reward be Your smile and Your “well done.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Read: Colossians 3:23-24, Matthew 25:21
Weekly Memory Verse: “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 6:1, ESV