Today, our message from Scripture comes from Matt. 6:1; “Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.”

I believe it’s within every child to want the love and approval of their parents. To know they care for him or her is as essential as food itself. To hear the words, “I love you,” or “I’m proud of you,” or you’re doing great,” allows their spirits to soar. Of course, at time all children need discipline, but that affirmation of their worth is beyond measure to their being whole and sound, emotionally and spiritually.
It's sad, then, to see us want to replace the acceptance God provides, with the short-lived and sometimes hollow praise from men. Scripture does tell us we should honor to each other (Rom. 12:11), but to seek it for oneself shows we trust ourselves over God, who has given us our talents, our abilities, our opportunities, everything. Without Him we couldn’t exist. How great it is to seek praise from God by submitting ourselves before Him, humbly serving Him, and receive heavenly praises for eternity.

To know God, His Son and the Spirit love us and are for us on, so to speak, is the highest praise. Who are those whom God truly honors? Those whose lives are lived for His glory, not for oneself. The greatest praise we can hear is not what feeds our ego today, but those words, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matt. 25:21), the very role Christ took for Himself. With these words we enter heaven. Remember today, God does love you, cares for you, and is doing everything to bring you to glory. Have a great day today because your lives are rooted and grounded in Him. God bless.

Robert