Secret Devotion: Walking for an Audience of One | Walking the Narrow Path (Part 4)
Matthew 6:1–18
On the “Wide Road,” everything is a performance. Life is lived for the “likes,” the applause, and the recognition of others. But as we continue our journey on the Narrow Path, Jesus gives us a counter-cultural command: Go into your closet.
In Matthew 6, Jesus addresses the three pillars of spiritual life—giving, praying, and fasting. But His focus isn’t on how to do them; it’s on who you are doing them for.
The Danger of the Pedestal
Jesus warns us not to practice our righteousness before men to be seen by them. Why? Because if the applause of people is why you do what you do, then that applause is the only reward you will ever get.
The traveller on the Narrow Path isn’t looking for a pedestal; they are looking for a Father.
- Secret Giving: When you help someone, don’t “sound a trumpet.” Let your generosity be a quiet secret between you and God.
- Secret Prayer: You don’t need fancy words or a public stage. The most powerful prayers are often the ones whispered in private, where it’s just you and the King.
- Secret Fasting: If you are sacrificing for God, don’t look miserable so people pity your “holiness.” Wash your face. Smile. Keep the sacrifice private.
The Father Who Sees
There is a beautiful phrase repeated three times in this passage: “…and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.”
The Narrow Way can sometimes feel lonely. You might feel like your sacrifices, your prayers, and your integrity go unnoticed by the world. But the Traveler has a promise: nothing is hidden from the Father. He sees the heart. He hears the quietest cry. He values the secret devotion more than the public display.
A Heart Check for the Traveler
As you walk today, ask yourself: If nobody ever found out about my good deeds or my prayer life, would I still do them? The Narrow Path is walked for an Audience of One. When you stop living for the eyes of people, you finally find the freedom to live for the heart of God.
Coming next in Part 5: Treasure and Trust: Overcoming Worry | Walking the Narrow Path (Part 5)
