Recognition is one of the most sought after rewards for most people. Recognitions like certificates, plaques, public presentations, and “pats on the back” make us feel special and important. We need to be careful that we are not seeking recognition from people for doing the good God expects from us.

In Matthew 6:1 Jesus tells the people who gathered to listen to him, and tells us, “Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven.” In the following verses, Jesus writes about being subtle when giving to the poor, praying, and fasting. After each he says, when we do, “Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.”

God’s recognition and reward is the one that matters, and is so much better than we could receive from people.

Dear Lord, it is tempting for us to seek other people’s recognition when we do good; It can sometimes even be a status symbol. Help us remember that it is your recognition that matters, and you will provide the joy and satisfaction for doing good. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.