When We Crave Attention and Compliments

Daily Devotional – Sunday, July 27, 2025
Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward from your Father in heaven.
Matthew 6:1 (NKJV)

The Sermon on the Mount reads like a manifesto of the new kingdom Jesus is inaugurating. Consequently, He spends a huge chunk of time explaining the type of conduct expected of those who will follow Him. The requirement in our key text in particular raises key questions concerning our acts of kindness.

To be Seen by People

Human beings often crave attention and compliments. Whether it is helping someone, giving to those in need, or praying in public, there is a little part of us that feels good when others see and applaud what we are doing. Jesus, however, speaks directly against this attitude and behavior.

God is not just looking at what we do but also paying attention to why we do it. When we do something kind just to impress people, that applause may be the only reward we get. However, when we choose to do the right thing quietly and with a humble heart, we please God.

When We Crave Attention and Compliments

If you are doing a good thing and no one sees it, but God does, isn’t that enough? He notices what we do in secret, with a sincere heart. Are there moments when you have done something good just to be seen? Today, try doing something kind in secret. Let that be your worship.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not to crave attention or compliments from others. Teach me to live in a way that makes You happy, even if no one else sees it. Remind me that Your approval is worth more than a thousand praises.