Jesus warns against practicing righteousness in order to be seen by others. Whether we are giving, praying, or fasting, the praise of the world can feel like a reward. But it is an incredibly small one. It doesn’t last, it can’t save us, and it can’t hold us together when life falls apart.
Again and again, Jesus points us to something greater: “your Father.” The greatest reward is not simply what the Father gives, but the Father Himself. And through Jesus, our great High Priest, we are invited to draw near to Him with confidence. In Christ, the Father gives us not only daily bread, but the Bread of Life. Not only clothing, but the righteousness of Jesus. Not only His gifts, but Himself.
- Isaiah 58:1–12
- Hebrews 4:14–16
- Matthew 6:1–18