In Matthew 5 Jesus shows us what is true well-being and the goodness of the kingdom heart. We are set free from the constraints of just getting by (living only by the outward fulfillment of the law) and we learn to bear the true fruit of the Kingdom.

In Matthew 6 Jesus lays out two huge obstacles to fulfilling kingdom life. We easily get caught up in desiring to have the approval of others, especially for being devout. Then, there is the huge obstacle of desiring to secure ourselves by means of material wealth. If we allow these obstacles in our lives, we are yanked from the true life flow of the kingdom and pulled back into the “righteousness” of the Pharisees.

The outward trappings of religious practice are big temptations. “Showing off” our prayer life, our giving, or our austerity in spiritual discipline may make us look good to others, but we may be drawn away from true kingdom living. We do those things to impress others, but forget to live from the heart of the kingdom.

The problem is NOT in praying, giving, or fasting. The problem is doing it in a way that others notice so that you receive their praise. That was the extent of the Pharisee piety.

It is not about hiding our deeds. It is about the motivation for what we do. If we are truly seeking God in prayer or worshiping him in our giving or pursuing him through fasting, and someone happens to notice, it’s okay! But if we are doing those things only so others notice, we’ve already obtained our reward.

Prayer, giving, and spiritual discipline are life giving elements of the Kingdom. They should flow from us. But let them flow regardless of the earthly audience. Let them flow because you truly are pursuing that Audience of One.