It's Not About Optics ~ Matthew 6.1-4

June 04, 2017

Michael Malanga

Practicing righteousness is the practical outworking of everything Jesus has taught thus far in the Sermon on the Mount. In John 6.27, Jesus said, “Do not labor for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on Him God the Father has set His seal.” To practice righteousness is to do what is right. When we do what is right, we labor for the food that endures to eternal life. This food is the reward God gives to those who strive to be perfect as He is perfect. Jesus warns us to beware of practicing our righteousness because He knows it is easier to maintain good optics, than it is obedience from a pure heart. He knows we will be tempted to seek the praise of others more than the pleasure of God. It’s better to be rewarded by God than applauded by others.