First Has Its Benefits
Trumpet Blowing – Part 2

Scripture Reading:  Matthew 6:2-8

Key Verse:  Matthew 6:1

“Be careful not to do your ‘acts of righteousness’ before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

Let’s continue our study from yesterday about the rewards we receive because of good deeds.  There are two sources of rewards: God and men.  In this world, the rewards from men can feel very good.  If we are honest, they can feel better than the rewards from our Father in heaven.  God’s rewards are normally not immediate gratification.  Our flesh loves to be gratified quickly.  God’s rewards feed our spirit more than our flesh.  We must be spiritually in tune to see and trust that reward.

            When we seek God’s rewards we seek to do our good works in secret.  People may see it and glorify God because of them.  If our motivation is right, God does use our good deeds to help others see Him in us.  1 Peter 2:12 reminds us: “Live such good lives among the pagans that though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.”  It is clear that God wants to put purpose in our good works, but God does not want us to seek the approval of men over and above His approval.

            We must continually challenge ourselves with the thought, I will do God’s will no matter what others say or do.  I will serve God without any pat on the back from men.  Our goal is to bring glory to our Father in heaven.

Father, I praise you for all you have done and continue to do for me.  I will serve you today so you may receive all the glory!  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.