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Day 15: Private Discipline, Public Reward

While growing up in Ukraine, my siblings and I enjoyed playing together, but we’d always make a mess. As long as we cleaned up, everything was fine. However, there were times when we would receive last-minute visits to the house, so we had to speed clean. Instead of putting everything where it belonged, we would hide things under the bed, behind the couch, or in the closet. So, the house would look spotless in just a few minutes.

The house looked clean in the eyes of the visitors, but we knew the truth: the mess was simply hidden.

I wonder if that is what Jesus had against religious people who cared more about looking good in front of people than looking good to God. God dwells in the secret place, and He sees you in secret; He is present in places we tend to neglect.

Fasting is a private discipline that brings public reward. And what you do in secret will eventually come to be known.

There are two stories in the book of Joshua that demonstrate this. Achan and Rahab had secrets, and what they were hiding impacted their future.

Achan was a soldier, while Rahab was a prostitute.

Achan had a promising future, while Rahab faced a certain doom.

Achan was hiding something, while Rahab was hiding someone.

Achan destroyed his family, while Rahab saved her family.

Achan brought defeat to the nation, while Rahab was used to save the nation.

Our Father sees what is done in private. Will He find something in your secret place that is worth rewarding in public? Live in the secret place of prayer, fasting, and giving, and your Heavenly Father promises to bless you.

Let's Pray:

Lord, I am thankful for Your goodness and Your patience with me. I continue to pray that you get rid of any pride in me and teach me to be humble. I want to please You, especially in private, through daily devotion to You. Help me to be aware of Your presence in private and throughout the day.