The secret life.

But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. Matthew 6:3-6, 16-18 (bold emphasis mine)

This is the exact opposite of our current culture. Today every minute and small action is celebrated through social media. It seems selfishness and pride have become virtues and something to boast about to the entire world.

But God wants our spiritual life to be kept ‘secret’ and shared only with Him. Kind of like what a husband and wife share in the most intimate spaces. Giving, praying, and fasting are three things God sees as something that you should share intimately with Him alone. Do you have a secret life with God, where only He knows your deepest soul issues and heart felt love? Being married is the closest physical relationship we can have that mirrors this relationship with God. This is where our focus, service, and love ALWAYS is on the other person BEFORE ourselves. Do you strive to have a secret life with God? Do you practice those spiritual disciplines (giving by His direction, praying by the inspiration by the Holy Spirit, and fasting / denying yourself / to hear Him better)?

Have your ever considered what the Father will reward you with if you do these things? The God of the universe will reward you? What value do you think that reward will have?

Developing this relationship with God is the most important relationship you will ever have or know. Today is the day to begin to develop this secret life with God. What will you tell Him? What will you do to please Him?