Our Motives MatterSample

Day 3: The Applause of One

Scripture: Matthew 6:1 NIV – “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.”

Jesus gives a clear warning: don’t perform for people. In a culture where validation often comes from likes, followers, and applause, the temptation to make our spiritual lives a spectacle is real. But righteousness loses its reward when it’s driven by recognition.

God isn't impressed by performance. He’s looking for purity of heart. He desires that our acts of faith—our giving, praying, and serving—flow from love, not the need for attention. When our motive is to impress others, we trade the eternal reward of God for the fleeting praise of man.

The truth is, it’s exhausting trying to keep up an image. Living for approval turns worship into a show and ministry into manipulation. But when we live for an audience of One, we find freedom. We’re no longer bound by people’s opinions or applause. Our reward becomes God Himself—His presence, His pleasure, His peace.

Jesus modeled this perfectly. He often withdrew to quiet places to pray, healed without fanfare, and pointed all glory back to the Father. He didn’t need public approval because He was rooted in His identity as the beloved Son.

Today, reflect on this: Am I doing this to be seen or to be faithful? Whether you're serving, leading, posting, or praying—ask God to purify your motives. Choose the quiet path of authenticity over performance. God sees what is done in secret—and He rewards openly.

Prayer:
Lord, teach me to live for Your eyes alone. Free me from the need for attention, approval, or applause. Help me to serve, give, and pray from a place of love and sincerity. Let my only goal be to please You. May my motive be pure, and my heart aligned with Yours. In Jesus’ name, Amen.