In Matthew 6 I read about not making your good deeds a public matter. Why would Jesus tell us this? Because God looks at the heart – and He sees what my true reason is for “boasting” to others or for why I am doing a good deed. I say to the church - we have no need to boost of our good deeds – let us do good for the individual and not for the masses to see us. Sorry…I believe this to be true.
I ask God, even as I post this to keep my heart humble but be honest. And I need to remember this for myself as well.
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This is one of those subtle teachings… we are to be the light and the salt. Who lights a lamp and puts it under a basket? There is a difference between glorifying God in full view of men, and accepting glory from men in the full view of God. Is Mother Theresa to be acknowledged as a servant of Christ, or as self-serving? In my estimation, she is a servant of Christ because in spite of her fame, because she never leaves confusion as to her motivation. Her service inspires others to His service, and informs to His nature. In service that is in public, we must never succumb to pride through boasting. Rather, we must also publicly acknowledge our place as a servant to Him who calls us to action. This is not easy.