Living for God's Approval, Not Public Recognition

As I reflect on this past Sunday’s sermon, I am reminded of the profound truth that our lives are best lived when rooted in the knowledge that God alone sees us. In a world that constantly seeks recognition—whether through social media likes, public applause, or the praise of others—it’s easy to fall into the trap of doing good deeds for the wrong reasons. But Jesus calls us to a different standard: to live with a “prayer-first posture,” not for show, but out of genuine love and obedience to our Heavenly Father.

One of the key points I want to share is that Jesus isn’t just giving us a list of “don’ts,” but rather revealing His expectations—what He assumes we will do as His followers. When He says, “Don’t do your good deeds publicly to be admired,” He’s implying that we are called to practice righteousness, to give generously, pray, and serve—not for recognition, but because of our transformed hearts. Our motives matter far more than the actions themselves, because true obedience flows from love for God and others, not from a desire to be seen or praised.

This leads us to consider: what if we truly believed that God sees everything? How would that change the way we live? When we do good in secret, out of obedience and love, we align ourselves with Jesus’ teaching that “your Father who sees everything will reward you”. Our true identity isn’t found in the applause of people, but in being deeply known and loved by God—hidden with Christ in God. This hidden life of faithfulness is what Jesus highlights as the essence of the good life—a life that isn’t about public recognition but about living for an audience of One.

In our current culture, which champions authenticity and self-expression as the highest virtues, it’s tempting to seek affirmation from others. Yet, Jesus flips that script, reminding us that the most meaningful life is lived in secret, in quiet obedience, where motives are pure and our hearts are aligned with God’s purpose. When no one is watching, our true character is revealed, and God’s reward is eternal.

Finally, I want to encourage us all to examine our own motives. Are we doing good because we want others to see and praise us? Or are we doing it because we love God and want to serve others out of a transformed heart? Remember, our ultimate purpose is to be on a continual journey of transformation—becoming more like Jesus—so that our lives point others toward Him, not for our glory, but for His.

Let’s embrace the truth that our real life is hidden with Christ in God. When we live with this awareness, every act of kindness, prayer, or sacrifice becomes a reflection of our love for Him, and a testimony to the world that the good life is found in living for an audience of One. As we move into moments of silence, I invite you to reflect: what parts of your life are driven by the approval of others? And what might change if you truly believed that God alone sees and is pleased?

May we all pursue a life rooted in hidden faithfulness, trusting that our Heavenly Father, who sees in secret, will reward us openly.