This raises the question , When are we most tempted to flaunt pretend piety ? Essentially , there are three areas Jesus identified for us : when we give ( Matt . 6:2 ), when we pray ( v . 5 ), and when we fast ( v . 16 ).
Each area is an outward expression of our faith — our righteousness put into practice . In fact , the Jews used the same Hebrew word ( tzedakah ) for both “ righteousness ” and “ giving alms ,” indicating that they believed giving to the poor was automatically considered righteous . One early Jewish saying went , “ It is better to give alms than to lay up gold . For almsgiving saves from death , and purges away every sin .” the eyes of Him with whom we have to do .”
God sees your every move and motive , so as you put your faith into practice , be sure to do so for the glory of God alone . Don ’ t strut your spirituality or put your piety on parade — and if you do , don ’ t expect a reward from God .
The external acts of giving , praying , and fasting can be paraded , exaggerated , and even faked . But God isn ’ t fooled ; He sees the heart . As 1 Samuel 16:7 says , “ God sees not as man sees , for man looks at the outward appearance , but the Lord looks at the heart .” And Hebrews 4:13 says , “ There is no creature hidden from His sight , but all things are open and laid bare to
Dr . Robert Jeffress is senior pastor of the 15,000-member First Baptist Church , Dallas , Texas , and is a Fox News contributor . His daily radio program , Pathway to Victory , is heard on more than 1,000 stations nationwide , and his weekly television program is seen in 195 countries around the world . Jeffress has appeared on many media outlets , such as Fox & Friends , Hannity , Good Morning America , and Real Time with Bill Maher . He is the author of nearly 30 books , including Not All Roads Lead to Heaven , Choosing the Extraordinary Life , and 18 Minutes with Jesus . He lives in Dallas .
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