For appearance’s sake.

Luke 20:45-47, And while all the people were listening, He said to the disciples, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love respectful greetings in the market places, and chief seats in the synagogues, and places of honor at banquets, who devour widows’ houses, and for appearance’s sake offer long prayers; these will receive greater condemnation.”

Recognition is a powerful force; Jesus wants us to have integrity, and to consider the source of that recognition. We are to do good deeds, not even letting the right hand know what the left is doing! Are my prayers to be heard by Him or by men?

I want to be focused on You and on Your priorities and purposes, O Lord!