Two Different Things
It’s one thing to act a certain way, and quite another to actually be a certain way. The former lends itself to hypocrisy, especially if the primarily concern is how one is perceived by others. Ironically, most see through the façade of a phony. In which case, the only one being fooled is the actor. To be sure, he be capable of pulling the wool over some people’s eyes, but eventually they will be found out, and found wanting in the eyes of God.
Undoubtedly, many aspire to be the best version of themselves, and so they try act in a way to match it. To a degree it may actually help them move in the right direction; however, acting has no real substance underneath it. Moreover, God’s intended version may dramatically differ from the one they see for themselves. There may be some matching attributes, but they do differ nonetheless. The funny thing is God’s version is obtainable; whereas, the other is far less likely. Especially, when you consider the fickleness of humans. They’re always changing their minds, which means their target changes. They may shoot a bullseye, but discover they shot the wrong one. God does not change; therefore, His vision for us is constant.
Do Nothing for Show
Matthew 6:1-4 Take heed that ye do not your alms (righteous deeds) before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
When people put their deeds on display, whose approval are they seeking? Are seeking to glorify God, or themselves. The life of faith is based on love, which is selfless. When doing things for show, love is absent, making them vain or empty. They are faithless, dead works. Whose affirmation do you seek? Jesus has a lot to say about this.
John 5:41-44 I receive not honour from men. But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in My Father’s name, and ye receive Me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?
Is there a correlation between one’s belief level and the need for human affirmation? For instance, those who doubt God is their Father Who actually loves them, may seek social approval to fill the void. For some strange reason, some actually value people’s opinions over His. Hmmm, why is that?
Selfish people do things for show. Not to be confused with the family hams. They do things for the recognition, thanks and glory. Can you say, narcissist? Even if others benefit from their actions, in the end they will not. In some cases, the show is a form of manipulation. They use it to influence people in a way that benefits them. They like to point out the “good deed” done for others, so they can hold it over their head. “You owe me one.” In which case, the deed was for themselves.
Giving honor to whom honor is due is appropriate (see Romans 12:10, 13:7, 1 Timothy 5:17, 6:1, etc.). Recognizing others for who they are, what they’ve done for others, or their accomplishments is a good thing. However, seeking that honor, not so much. If we’re honest, we all struggle with this issue from time to time. If that thing crops up, it would be good to ask, “Why the need for recognition?” One day I felt the Lord say to me, “Doing nothing for show.” It really hit home. From that day forward, I’ve finding myself asking the guy in the mirror, “Are you putting a show?” while giving him a stare down. That thought helps to keep things in proper perspective.
When we’re actually submitting to God, we don’t have to pretend. We are complete in Jesus; we don’t have to complete ourselves. We couldn’t if we tried.
Colossians 3:23-24 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
