bible verse about bragging about your good deeds

Matthew 6:1-18

Be not like a hypocrite showing off good deeds

Are you someone who likes to brag about the good deeds you do, such as giving to charity, fasting, or praying? According to Matthew 6:1-18, the Bible teaches us that we should not seek recognition for our actions on earth but rather do them secretly before the Lord. By performing acts of kindness, prayer, and fasting with a pure heart and motive, we can be assured of a greater reward in heaven.

Alms: Giving in Secret

In verses 1 and 2 of Matthew 6, Jesus warns against practicing almsgiving (giving to the needy) for the purpose of receiving praise from others. He cautions us not to announce our charitable acts with trumpets, like the hypocrites do, but to give humbly and from the heart. When we give to those in need without seeking recognition, we honor God and store up treasures in heaven.

Prayer: Seeking God's Will

In prayer, Jesus instructs us to avoid praying in public to be seen by others but rather to pray in secret and with a humble heart. He provides a model of prayer in verses 9-14, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's will, forgiveness, and protection from temptation. True prayer should come from a place of sincerity and devotion to God.

Fasting: Doing it unto the Lord

Similarly, Jesus teaches us to fast with the right attitude and motive. Fasting should not be done for show or to elicit sympathy from others but as a way to draw closer to God with gladness and joy. By fasting in secret and with a joyful heart, we demonstrate our obedience and devotion to the Lord rather than seeking approval from others. In a world that often values outward appearances and public recognition, the teachings of Matthew 6 remind us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else.

By doing good deeds, praying, and fasting secretly, we align ourselves with God's will and receive blessings from Him. Let us strive to be genuine in our actions, seeking only the approval of our heavenly Father and storing up treasures in heaven that will never fade away.

Conclusion: A Reward in Heaven

In conclusion, the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:1-18 remind us to be wary of seeking recognition and praise from others for our good deeds. Instead, we are called to perform acts of kindness, prayer, and fasting in secret, with a humble and sincere heart. Our true reward comes from God, who sees the motives of our hearts and honors those who seek to please Him above all else. Let us commit to living out these teachings in our daily lives, striving to be not like hypocrites, but to do all things in secret before the Lord.

Teresa Morin: President of Touch of God International Ministries

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