This morning, as we returned to our series on the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), we reached chapter chapter 6:1-18. Today we looked at 1-4 (giving) and 16-18 (fasting). In these verses Jesus wants us to understand that it is not just what we do that is important, but also how and why we do it.
It is possible to give money to charity and the poor - but do it for all the wrong reasons. You can fast, you can pray - and yet it will count for nothing because of your attitudes. Jesus warns us of the dangers of giving, fasting and praying, with an attitude that wants to impress others rather than God. If I do my good deeds to be seen by others, then that will be my reward - they will be impressed and think I'm a great guy.
So why do I do the things I do? Am I looking to impress others, or do I want to respond to everything that God has already done for me?
