Do we live our lives “before men” or before God? In this chapter Jesus teaches us the difference and our hearts and consciences are tested by what He says. Alms were gifts given to the temple. When the givers let others see and know what they were giving, they would “have glory from men.” When done in secret, God the Father would receive the glory from the giving.
When they prayed, was it for the eye of God or for the eye of men? Don’t memorize a prayer and then just say the words; that is “vain repetitions.” When you talk to God, talk as if He were standing right in front of you. He knows what you need, but He wants you to say it, for you need to show you are depending on Him. If you ask for something, like forgiveness, be sure you have the same heart towards others that you want God to show to you.
Fasting is denying yourself food. Do you give up something and want everyone to know what you are giving up? If so, you are doing it for your own glory. Doing it without telling others but just for God the Father is the right way. God will reward what you do for Him.
Are we living in view of having a place in heaven with Jesus, or just for the here and now? In other words, is what we value most and live for in heaven or on earth? What we value is our “treasure.” Our treasure controls our hearts, and what is in our hearts controls how we live our lives. If our heart is right, we will be able to see and understand life clearly. If wrong, we will live in “darkness”; we will not be able to see and live properly. We cannot have both heaven first and the earth first at the same time. As Jesus says, “No man can serve two masters.”
Trust God as Father for everything. He knows and cares about your every need and will provide for you.
1. Giving alms before men is done to have __________ of men. Matthew 6:___
2. If we want our heavenly Father to forgive us, we should __________ men their trespasses. Matthew 6:___
3. Fasting — giving up things like food — is not to be done before men but in secret before your __________. Matthew 6:___
4. Your heart is where your __________ is. Matthew 6:___
5. Who knows everything that you need for your life? __________ Matthew 6:___