In the second half of Matthew 5, Jesus instructs us on the righteousness that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees. It is instruction that cuts through our façade and pierces to the heart.

Our acts of piety must run deep – our actions must be instructed by a love like God’s love. We should not appear to act as mere men and women, but as men and women wholly committed to a discipleship that costs everything in this world.

Yet it is ever so easy for our hearts to promote ourselves among over and above others. We may pray to hear other’s tell us how well we prayed. We may bring up our giving to be congratulated or admired by others. We may discuss our experiences with fasting to be well-regarded by those around us. It is all too easy make our work into something that gains favor and admiration from others.

And so, Jesus’ warning in Matt. 6:1 is exceedingly relevant for us today. Our righteousness cannot be motivated by a desire to be seen or praised by people around us – else it is no righteousness at all! Right conduct in doing the will of God should not be performed to get attention.

Our motive, our attitudes, our intent – all must be God-centered, not earthly-centered. We must seek the rewards of heaven (Matt. 5:20) and not earthly rewards.