Devotion
Don’t Be a Show-off
Frances Taylor
Many people do good things. The question here is, why? One summer I worked in the office of a major university where I recorded the donations that came in on cards with the name of the donor on them. I came across many names of prominent people who were quite familiar to me, but there was a notation on the top of many of those cards that said "anonymous." Many of these people actually had two cards, one for the public and the other not. The public one was for far less money. They wanted to support the college, but didn't want credit for their generosity. Obviously, people will be rewarded here for a generosity of spirit, they will be known for performing acts of heroism. We know the names of people who have worked to spread the gospel message and those who work tirelessly for justice. This does not take away from their sacrifice. But, there also are people who want to be known for their good acts and it is these that Jesus warns about. It is one thing for people to come to know the goodness of others; it is another for that person to call attention to what they are doing for their own glory. Do we act because as followers of Christ we are called to do what we do? Or, do we want attention?
Prayer
Lord, may I always do the right thing for the right reasons. Loving your people and working for justice should not be done for the glory of anyone except you. Amen.
Night Prayer
I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,
Inspiration
We are confident when we speak of the Lord! He is present with us each moment and floods our lives with infinite love; we will never understand the depth of His love or why we deserve it. When we witness for the Lord, we do so with a clear conscience and assurance that we are speaking the truth. We know that His promise of salvation extends to everyone, and we will continue to minister to those who do not know Him with courage and determination.
Prayer
Dear God, You have shown us time and time again that we can trust You. We have confidence when we witness in Your name because You are trustworthy and good. In Jesus' Name, Amen.