Good Works: Shining a Light or Staying Humble?

Good Works: Shining a Light or Staying Humble?

How should we live? Is it right to shine a light on our good works—or even on ourselves?

In the Sermon on the Mount, Yeshua gave two teachings that seem contradictory at first glance:

• “Don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” (Matthew 6:3-4)
• “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Oxymoron? No—it’s all about the heart and your motive.

Consider this: our pastor was recently invited to Mar-a-Lago but graciously declined. Did he miss an opportunity, or did he make the right decision? Only God knows the answer, but a discerning spirit might recognize the humility in his choice and give glory to God.

Let us reflect on our own hearts:

“Father, your word says, ‘The heart is deceitful above all else; who can understand it?’ (Jeremiah 17:9). Yet I ask you to search my heart, as Psalm 139:23-24 says: ‘Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.’”

Call to Action:

• Examine your motives in all that you do. Are you seeking to glorify God or yourself?
• Pray for wisdom and discernment for our leaders—our president, his cabinet, and their spiritual advisors—that they may lead us in ways that promote peace and righteousness.

Amen.