Motive and intent are crazy and sometimes a fine line. When we consider the reason that we do what we do or why we do what we do, motive and intent are of paramount importance. Pride is a slippery slope and motive can be the banana peel.... but it doesn't have to be. So, when it comes down to your fast, is it for notoriety or for a sincere desire to pursue the face of God? Think about prayer whether in public or private, who is the audience? Who is rewarding your verbiage? Consider the simple things such as service/giving for those in need. Who do you think is waiting in the wings with the trophy for your obedience? When Jesus says don't be like the hypocrites, He is referring to actors. In essence, saying don't be like the actors who only act to be seen and entertain but have no desire for God's glory. So it comes down to motive and intent. Why and for who? Pride and for you or God's glory and for Him?
Colossians 3:23-24 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.
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Thank you for the sermon today, it really HELPED me to understand the Lord’s Prayer and why we pray to the Father. And that I can be a part of the kingdom now!
ReplyDeleteThank you for helping me through that!
Crazy thing is that some folks don't wanna tell anybody when they mess up on their fast but they will rush to tell everybody that they are doing one. Funny...I used to think I was this good person and did nothing "just to be noticed" but the more mature I become spiritually, I realize how many of those things I did to be noticed by others. Am I a nasty sinner or what?? Just a thought for the day.
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