DAILY BREAD / MATTHEW 6:11

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 6:11

Give us this day our daily bread.

DAILY BREAD / MATTHEW 6:11

Prayer should contain requests for God to provide for our daily needs (Philippians 4:19; Luke 11:3). We should not focus on having more than we really need because it can cause discontentment. We should be ready to express thanks for whatever God chooses to give us.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. YOUR WILL BE DONE / MATTHEW 6:10
  2. THIS THEN IS HOW YOU SHOULD PRAY / MATTHEW 6:9
  3. PRAY IN SECRET / MATTHEW 6:6
  4. ‘ACTS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS’ BEFORE MEN / MATTHEW 6:1
  5. DO NOT RESIST AN EVIL PERSON / MATTHEW 5:39
  6. LOOKS LUSTFULLY / MATTHEW 5:28
  7. ANGRY … RACA … FOOL / MATTHEW 5:22
  8. UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20
  9. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  10. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  11. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  12. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  13. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  14. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  15. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  16. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  17. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  18. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  19. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  20. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  21. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  22. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  23. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  24. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  25. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  26. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  27. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  28. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  29. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  30. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  31. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  32. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  33. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  34. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  35. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  36. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  37. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  38. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  39. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  40. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  41. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  42. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  43. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  44. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  45. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  46. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  47. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  48. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  49. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  50. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  51. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  52. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

YOUR KINGDOM COME – YOUR WILL BE DONE / MATTHEW 6:10

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 6:10

Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

YOUR KINGDOM COME – YOUR WILL BE DONE / MATTHEW 6:10

YOUR KINGDOM COME

Though it is important to take our concerns and needs to God in prayer (though He already knows our needs), the greatest priority of prayer must be the purposes of God’s kingdom (His power, authority, purposes and way of life both on earth and into eternity). 

  1. We must pray for Christ’s return and the establishment of God’s eternal kingdom in the new heaven and the new earth (Revelation 21:1; 2 Peter 3:10-12; Revelation 20:11; 22:20).
  2. We must pray for God’s power to be shown among men and His purposes to be accomplished on earth at this present time. This includes following Jesus’ instructions and exercising God’s power among His people in order to destroy the works of Satan, heal the sick, save the spiritually lost and promote truth. We can operate in such power only as we develop a deeper relationship with God through prayer and as we depend on the Holy Spirit for power and guidance.

YOUR WILL BE DONE

To pray “your will be done” means that we truly desire that God’s purposes, plans and desires are fulfilled in our lives and in the lives of our families. We can discern God’s will primarily through His revealed Word (the Bible) and by trusting the Holy Spirit’s leading in our hearts (Romans 8:4-14). God’s will is accomplished when we pray for “His kingdom and His righteousness” to be active in our lives (Matthew 6:33). We must also keep in mind that if we are praying for God’s will to be done, we will be ready to take action toward accomplishing His purposes as He reveals them to us.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THIS THEN IS HOW YOU SHOULD PRAY / MATTHEW 6:9
  2. PRAY IN SECRET / MATTHEW 6:6
  3. ‘ACTS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS’ BEFORE MEN / MATTHEW 6:1
  4. DO NOT RESIST AN EVIL PERSON / MATTHEW 5:39
  5. LOOKS LUSTFULLY / MATTHEW 5:28
  6. ANGRY … RACA … FOOL / MATTHEW 5:22
  7. UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20
  8. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  9. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  10. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  11. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  12. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  13. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  14. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  15. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  16. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  17. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  18. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  19. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  20. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  21. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  22. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  23. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  24. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  25. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  26. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  27. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  28. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  29. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  30. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  31. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  32. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  33. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  34. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  35. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  36. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  37. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  38. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  39. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  40. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  41. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  42. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  43. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  44. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  45. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  46. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  47. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  48. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  49. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  50. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  51. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

THIS THEN IS HOW YOU SHOULD PRAY / MATTHEW 6:9

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 6:9

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

THIS THEN IS HOW YOU SHOULD PRAY / MATTHEW 6:9

With this model prayer, Christ suggests some priorities that should be in the prayer life of a Christian. The prayer contains six petitions, or requests: three have to do with God’s holiness (purity, perfection, completeness and separation from evil) and will (plans and desires that reflect His character and purposes); Three have to do with our personal needs. The short length of this prayer does not mean that we should pray only briefly about our concerns. Though sincere prayer does not have to be lengthy, there were times when Christ prayed all night long (Luke 6:12).

OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN

Prayer involves worshiping (expressing honor and worthiness) our heavenly Father and communicating openly with Him. Even for those who cannot relate to a good relationship with an earthly father, God is everything any believer could ever hope for; and He will never let them down. 

  1. As a loving Father, God cares for us, guides us and welcomes us to have a deep and open friendship with Him. Through faith in Christ, we have access to the Father at any time to worship Him and to express our needs (Matthew 6:25-34).
  2. As a Father, God does not tolerate evil in His children or fail to discipline them correctly (as some earthly fathers do). To do anything less would not be good for us. God opposes sin and what it can do to His children. 
  3. As a heavenly Father, He can punish as well as bless, withhold as well as give, act with justice as well as with mercy. How He responds to His children depends on their faith in and obedience to Him. Yet we can be confident that all of God’s guidance and discipline are for our good.

HALLOWED BE YOUR NAME

The greatest concern in our prayers and in our lives should be to bring honor to God. His name must be “hallowed,” or considered sacred and holy, which means we must live in a way that is worthy of our relationship with Him. This requires us to live a life of holiness – moral purity, spiritual wholeness, separation from evil and devotion to God’s purposes. In this way, we will bring glory, honor and praise to God (Psalms 34:3). In our prayers and daily lives, we must be passionately concerned with the reputation of God, His church, His message and His kingdom purposes. To do anything that brings disgrace or disrespect on the Lord’s name and character is a serious sin that openly shames God.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. PRAY IN SECRET / MATTHEW 6:6
  2. ‘ACTS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS’ BEFORE MEN / MATTHEW 6:1
  3. DO NOT RESIST AN EVIL PERSON / MATTHEW 5:39
  4. LOOKS LUSTFULLY / MATTHEW 5:28
  5. ANGRY … RACA … FOOL / MATTHEW 5:22
  6. UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20
  7. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  8. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  9. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  10. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  11. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  12. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  13. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  14. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  15. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  16. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  17. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  18. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  19. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  20. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  21. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  22. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  23. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  24. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  25. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  26. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  27. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  28. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  29. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  30. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  31. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  32. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  33. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  34. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  35. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  36. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  37. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  38. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  39. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  40. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  41. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  42. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  43. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  44. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  45. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  46. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  47. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  48. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  49. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  50. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

PRAY IN SECRET / MATTHEW 6:6

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 6:6

But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.

PRAY IN SECRET / MATTHEW 6:6

Every child of God should have someplace to be alone with God. Without such a time and place, we will never develop a consistent and personal prayer life. Secret prayer is not a matter of hiding our faith or keeping Christ’s message to ourselves. It is a matter of growing in our personal relationship with Christ and learning to discern (to have sharp insight or wise judgment into or about something) the voice of His Spirit as He guides and teaches us. Jesus had His secret places (Matthew 14:23; Mark 1:35; Luke 4:42; 5:16; 6:12). Secret prayer is especially important:

  1. In the morning, so we can commit our day to God and start out with Him on our minds;
  2. In the evening, so we can give thanks for God’s help throughout the day and consider what He wants to teach us about the day’s experiences. 

Whenever the Holy Spirit prompts or inspires us to pray – sometimes for our own situations and often for other people. When we spend personal time with God, He promises to reward us openly – with answered prayer, with a deep sense of His presence and with true honor for eternity (Matthew 6:9 on God as Father).

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. ‘ACTS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS’ BEFORE MEN / MATTHEW 6:1
  2. DO NOT RESIST AN EVIL PERSON / MATTHEW 5:39
  3. LOOKS LUSTFULLY / MATTHEW 5:28
  4. ANGRY … RACA … FOOL / MATTHEW 5:22
  5. UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20
  6. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  7. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  8. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  9. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  10. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  11. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  12. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  13. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  14. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  15. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  16. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  17. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  18. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  19. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  20. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  21. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  22. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  23. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  24. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  25. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  26. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  27. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  28. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  29. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  30. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  31. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  32. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  33. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  34. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  35. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  36. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  37. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  38. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  39. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  40. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  41. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  42. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  43. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  44. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  45. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  46. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  47. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  48. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  49. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

‘ACTS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS’ BEFORE MEN / MATTHEW 6:1

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 6:1

Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.

Guarding Your Heart: The Trap of Performative Faith

In a world driven by likes, views, and public validation, Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:1 hit with piercing relevance: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”

This passage forces us to look in the mirror and ask a difficult question: Who are we actually living for?

The Motive Behind the Ministry

Jesus does not condemn doing good works; rather, He targets the hidden motives of our hearts. When we do the right things for the wrong reasons—seeking the applause, admiration, or validation of those around us—we trade the eternal, deep reward of God for the fleeting, superficial honor of men.

Scripture exposes this visual-first faith as hypocrisy. To act godly on the outside while craving personal significance on the inside is to wear a mask. True righteousness is an overflow of love for God, not a calculated performance for an audience.

Three Areas of Secret Devotion

Jesus specifically outlines three foundational disciplines where our motives are easily corrupted:

  • Giving: Offering resources quietly, without demanding recognition or keeping score.
  • Prayer: Communing intimately with the Father in secret, rather than staging eloquent public displays.
  • Fasting: Denying our physical desires to focus on spiritual growth, without advertising our sacrifice to the world.

The Contemporary Challenge

This warning directly challenges modern Christian culture. It confronts our temptation to compete for recognition, boast about ministry success under the guise of “testimony,” or turn sacred worship into a produced entertainment experience. When the driving desire is to be first, recognized, or celebrated, we build with wood, hay, and stubble. God tests our work by the purity of our intent, not the size of our platform.

Let us choose the hidden place of devotion, trusting that the Father who sees what is done in secret will reward us with what truly matters: His presence.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Search our hearts today and expose any areas where we are seeking the approval of people over Your pleasure. Forgive us for the times we have turned holy acts of giving, prayer, and discipline into a stage for our own egos.

Purify our motives, Lord. Grant us a sincere faith that does not need a spotlight to serve, a microphone to pray, or an audience to sacrifice. Help us to contentedly rest in the hidden place, secure in Your love alone. May everything we do bring ultimate glory to Your name, not our own.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. DO NOT RESIST AN EVIL PERSON / MATTHEW 5:39
  2. LOOKS LUSTFULLY / MATTHEW 5:28
  3. ANGRY … RACA … FOOL / MATTHEW 5:22
  4. UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20
  5. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  6. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  7. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  8. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  9. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  10. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  11. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  12. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  13. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  14. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  15. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  16. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  17. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  18. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  19. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  20. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  21. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  22. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  23. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  24. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  25. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  26. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  27. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  28. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  29. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  30. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  31. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  32. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  33. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  34. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  35. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  36. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  37. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  38. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  39. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  40. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  41. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  42. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  43. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  44. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  45. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  46. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  47. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  48. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

DO NOT RESIST AN EVIL PERSON / MATTHEW 5:39

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 5:39

But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Choosing Grace Over Revenge: Understanding Matthew 5:39

When Jesus said, “Do not resist an evil person” in Matthew 5:39, He wasn’t giving a green light to injustice or saying we should tolerate abuse. As Scripture shows elsewhere, God establishes authorities to maintain justice and restrain evil (Romans 13:1-4). Instead, Jesus is challenging our personal reactions when we are wronged.

The context of this passage reveals a deeper call: to love our enemies and pray for those who mistreat us (Matthew 5:44). When hit with an insult or an unfair situation, our natural human instinct is to strike back with hatred or bitterness. Jesus calls us to a higher standard. He invites us to respond with a Christlike character that completely disrupts the cycle of retaliation.

How we treat those who mistreat us serves as a powerful mirror of the Gospel. Throughout Scripture, we see remarkable examples of this godly spirit in action:

  • Abraham gave Lot the first choice of the land, yet later risked his life to rescue Lot when he was captured (Genesis 13:1-13; 14:14).
  • Joseph forgave the very brothers who sold him into slavery, choosing to sustain them rather than seek revenge (Genesis 37:18-28, 50:19-21).
  • David repeatedly spared King Saul’s life, refusing to harm the man who was actively hunting him down (1 Samuel 24, 26).
  • Jesus and Stephen both prayed for the forgiveness of their executioners while actively laying down their lives (Luke 23:34; Acts 7:60).

When we choose kindness over retaliation, our actions force others to consider the reality of the Lord we serve. Standing out through radical grace can be the very catalyst that leads someone to accept Christ as their Savior and Lord.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the ultimate example of grace and restraint shown through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Lord, it is incredibly difficult to stay calm and kind when we feel wronged, insulted, or unappreciated. We ask that You root out any spirit of hatred, bitterness, or revenge hiding inside our hearts.

Fill us with Your Holy Spirit so that our immediate reaction to unfairness reflects Your love rather than our own anger. Help us to trust Your justice and give us the strength to love our enemies well. May our lives be a living testimony of Your goodness, drawing others out of darkness and into a relationship with You.

In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. LOOKS LUSTFULLY / MATTHEW 5:28
  2. ANGRY … RACA … FOOL / MATTHEW 5:22
  3. UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20
  4. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  5. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  6. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  7. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  8. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  9. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  10. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  11. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  12. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  13. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  14. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  15. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  16. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  17. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  18. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  19. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  20. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  21. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  22. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  23. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  24. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  25. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  26. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  27. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  28. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  29. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  30. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  31. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  32. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  33. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  34. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  35. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  36. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  37. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  38. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  39. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  40. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  41. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  42. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  43. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  44. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  45. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  46. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  47. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

LOOKS LUSTFULLY / MATTHEW 5:28

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 5:28

But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

Guarding the Heart: Understanding Jesus’ Higher Standard in Matthew 5:28

Many believers today argue that New Testament Christians are entirely free from the constraints of Old Testament law. However, Jesus makes it clear in Matthew 5:17 that He did not come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it. In fact, throughout the Sermon on the Mount, Christ calls His followers to an even higher moral standard than the letter of the law required.

We see this explicitly in Matthew 5:28, where Jesus addresses the command against adultery. He transitions the focus from the external action to the internal condition of the heart, warning that “anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”

The Danger of the Lingering Look

Jesus is not speaking about a passing, involuntary thought or a sudden temptation. Being tempted is not a sin; even Christ was tempted. The transgression occurs when we allow ungodly thoughts to linger, taking root in our minds.

To intentionally entertain and feed immoral desires is to give them internal approval. Cultivating these hidden fantasies actively reshapes our character and prepares us to act them out when the opportunity arises. An ungodly sexual desire that is entertained, coddled, and not resisted is sin.

Cultivating Purity in a Culture of Exposure

To live out Christ’s standard, we must actively guard what we allow into our minds. Satan frequently uses entertainment to erode moral boundaries. As believers, we must maintain strict spiritual vigilance over the media we consume, including movies, television, and literature. Scripture consistently warns us to flee from sexual immorality and to abstain from fleshly lusts that wage war against the soul (1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Peter 2:11).

A Shared Responsibility for Modesty

Maintaining sexual purity is a shared responsibility that requires effort from both men and women. God calls all believers to practice modesty in their words, actions, and attire.

  • Practicing Mutual Respect: Dressing in a manner that intentionally stirs up lustful desires or draws undue attention to the body creates a stumbling block for others. Scripture reminds us that behavior or dress that encourages another person to stumble is not pleasing to God (1 Timothy 2:9).
  • Guarding the Eye Gate: Men and women alike must actively guard their eyes and hearts, consciously choosing to turn away from situations, environments, or media that provoke lustful thoughts.

True purity begins in the hidden spaces of the mind. By submitting our thought lives to the lordship of Christ, we honor God, protect our neighbors, and fulfill the high calling of the gospel.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before You recognizing that You see not just our outward actions, but the deepest intentions and thoughts of our hearts. Forgive us for the times we have allowed our minds to wander into areas that do not honor You. Cleanse us from secret faults and create in us clean hearts.

Holy Spirit, grant us the wisdom and strength to guard our eyes and minds from the temptations of this world. Help us to establish healthy boundaries in our entertainment, our dress, and our relationships. May our lives reflect Your holiness, and may our thoughts be pleasing in Your sight. We ask for the grace to walk in purity, holding fast to the high standard Christ set for us.

In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. ANGRY … RACA … FOOL / MATTHEW 5:22
  2. UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20
  3. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  4. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  5. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  6. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  7. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  8. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  9. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  10. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  11. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  12. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  13. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  14. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  15. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  16. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  17. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  18. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  19. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  20. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  21. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  22. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  23. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  24. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  25. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  26. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  27. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  28. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  29. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  30. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  31. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  32. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  33. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  34. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  35. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  36. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  37. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  38. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  39. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  40. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  41. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  42. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  43. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  44. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  45. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  46. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

ANGRY … RACA … FOOL / MATTHEW 5:22

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 5:22

 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

Heart Check: Moving from Anger to Grace

We live in a culture where venting anger is often celebrated as a form of authenticity. However, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus stops us in our tracks with a radical, heart-level standard. In Matthew 5:22, He addresses three escalating levels of relational brokenness: being angry, shouting Raca, and calling someone a fool.

To understand His words, we must recognize that Jesus is not speaking of a justified anger at those who are wicked and cruel, such as His own righteous indignation when cleansing the temple (John 2:13-17). Rather, He is condemning the act of judging another out of personal malice, fueled by a desire to harm, demean, or culturally destroy another person.

The Weight of Our Words

Jesus breaks down how hidden bitterness manifests into destructive behavior:

  • Internal Anger: The baseline danger starts in the heart. Harboring unresolved, self-righteous anger places us under the same moral judgment as the act of murder, because murder begins in the mind.
  • “Raca” (The Insult): Raca is an Aramaic term of contempt. It essentially means calling someone an “empty-headed fool” or worthless. It is the sin of arrogance—arrogantly dismissing someone’s intelligence and dignity.
  • “You Fool!” (The Condemnation): In the biblical context, calling someone a “godless fool” (mōros) goes beyond mocking their intellect. It judges their character and spiritual standing. Calling a person a godless fool in anger indicates a heart attitude that places one “in danger of the fire of hell.” It usurps God’s role as the ultimate Judge.

The Condition of the Heart

Jesus reveals that our words are a spiritual heart monitor. Murderous actions start as murderous attitudes. When we diminish another human being made in the image of God to an “empty head” or a “godless fool,” we reveal a desire to erase their worth.

Today, let us ask the Holy Spirit to search our hearts. Are we harboring hidden contempt? Are we using our words to tear down? True righteousness calls us to lay down our rights, forgive quickly, and see others through the lens of God’s redeeming grace.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, search my heart today. Forgive me for the moments I have allowed anger to fester into bitterness, and for the times my words have diminished others. Guard my tongue against contempt, insult, and judgment. Cleanse me of any desire to harm another person’s dignity or reputation. Fill me instead with Your Holy Spirit, that my words may build up and reflect Your profound grace. Teach me to love as You love, seeing every person as an image-bearer of the Creator. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20
  2. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  3. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  4. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  5. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  6. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  7. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  8. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  9. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  10. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  11. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  12. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  13. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  14. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  15. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  16. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  17. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  18. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  19. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  20. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  21. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  22. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  23. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  24. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  25. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  26. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  27. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  28. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  29. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  30. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  31. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  32. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  33. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  34. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  35. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  36. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  37. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  38. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  39. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  40. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  41. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  42. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  43. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  44. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  45. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:20

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 5:20

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Beyond the Surface: What Jesus Meant by “Unless Your Righteousness…”

In Matthew 5:20, Jesus drops a bombshell on His listeners: “For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.”

To the everyday person standing on that hillside, this statement was terrifying. The Pharisees and teachers were the ultimate spiritual heavyweights of their day. They seemed to do everything right. They lived meticulously by the law, memorized Scripture, prayed on schedule, fasted regularly, and never missed a worship service.

If their righteousness wasn’t enough to get into heaven, what hope did anyone else have?

The Trap of External Religion

The problem wasn’t what the Pharisees were doing; it was why and how they were doing it. Their righteousness was entirely external. They mastered the art of the outward performance while their hearts remained completely unchanged. They substituted religious rule-following for true, inner devotion to God.

It is dangerously easy to fall into this same trap today. We can easily check off our spiritual to-do lists:

  • Attending church services
  • Reading a daily devotion
  • Volunteering for ministry projects
  • Giving tithes and offerings

But Jesus looks straight past our religious checklists. He looks directly at the heart. In Mark 7:6, Jesus quotes the prophet Isaiah to expose this exact issue: “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.”

The Standard is Love and Trust

Jesus isn’t calling us to become more rigid legalists than the Pharisees. He is calling us to a deeper, transformative righteousness that starts from the inside out. True righteousness means our hearts, spirits, and secret motives conform to God’s standards because we love and trust Him.

God doesn’t just want your compliance; He wants your devotion. External actions are empty without the correct inner attitudes. When we truly love God, our outward actions naturally flow from a place of genuine worship, not obligation or a desire to be seen by others. We need both: a heart captured by God’s grace and a life that reflects His holiness.

Examine your spiritual walk this week. Are you just going through the motions, or is your faith driven by a vibrant, loving relationship with Jesus? Let’s ask Him to do a deep work in our hearts today.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, search my heart today. Forgive me for the times I have settled for a superficial faith, valuing the applause of people or the comfort of a checklist over true intimacy with You. Cleanse my secret motives and align my inner attitudes with Your Holy Spirit.

Lord, I know I cannot produce true righteousness on my own strength. I ask You to transform my heart from the inside out so that my words, thoughts, and actions naturally reflect Your love, truth, and grace. Let my devotion to You be driven by authentic love and absolute trust. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19
  2. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  3. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  4. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  5. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  6. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  7. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  8. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  9. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  10. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  11. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  12. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  13. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  14. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  15. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  16. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  17. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  18. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  19. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  20. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  21. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  22. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  23. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  24. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  25. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  26. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  27. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  28. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  29. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  30. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  31. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  32. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  33. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  34. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  35. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  36. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  37. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  38. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  39. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  40. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  41. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  42. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  43. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  44. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

GREAT IN THE KINGDOM / MATTHEW 5:19

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Matthew 5:19

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

True greatness in the kingdom of heaven is determined by our obedience and influence regarding God’s law. According to Matthew 5:19, anyone who obeys and teaches God’s commands will be called great.

The Standard of Greatness

In a world that constantly encourages us to compromise, Jesus calls us to a higher standard. Our status in eternity is directly tied to how we interact with His Word.

  • Our Attitude: Loving God means His commands are not a burden (1 John 5:3).
  • Our Affection: Delight in His truth (Psalms 119:47).
  • Our Impact: Inspiring others through a faithful, uncompromising example.

When we treat His holiness as if it does not matter today, we lower the standard for those watching us. True honor belongs to those who steadfastly do and teach His truths.

Closing Prayer

Lord, grant us a deep love for Your commandments. Let our daily choices inspire others to live by Your standards rather than compromise them. Keep us faithful in the small things so that our lives may honor You and lead others into Your truth. Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

  • NIV Bible
  • King James Bible
  • www. biblegateway.com
  • www.biblestudytools.com
  • Map Pencils
  • College Ruled Spiral Notebook
  • Ballpoint Pens
  • Some links may be affiliated. By purchasing an item from an affiliate link, I receive a small commission – but you are not charged more or less by clicking or purchasing through the link. Thank you for supporting me!

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THE LAW TO FULFILL / MATTHEW 5:17
  2. LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS / MATTHEW 5:14-16
  3. PERSECUTED BECAUSE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:10
  4. THE PEACEMAKERS / MATTHEW 5:9
  5. THE PURE IN HEART / MATTHEW 5:8
  6. THE MERCIFUL / MATTHEW 5:7
  7. HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS / MATTHEW 5:6
  8. THE MEEK / MATTHEW 5:5
  9. THOSE WHO MOURN / MATTHEW 5:4
  10. BLESSED POOR IN SPIRIT / MATTHEW 5:3
  11. SERMON ON THE MONT / MATTHEW 5-7
  12. THE KINGDOM AND HEALING / MATTHEW 4:23
  13. FISHERS OF MEN / MATTHEW 4:19
  14. IT IS WRITTEN / MATTHEW 4:6
  15. FASTING FORTY DAYS / MATTHEW 4:2
  16. JESUS … TEMPTED / MATTHEW 4:1-11
  17. THE TRINITY IN EXAMPLE / MATTHEW 3:17
  18. SPIRIT … ON HIM / MATTHEW 3:16
  19. JESUS … BAPTIZED / MATTHEW 3:13
  20. WILL BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MATTHEW 3:11
  21. FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE / MATTHEW 3:8
  22. PHARISEES AND SADDUCEES / MATTHEW 3:7
  23. KINGDOM OF HEAVEN – REPENT / MATTHEW 3:2
  24. WARNED IN A DREAM / MATTHEW 2:22-23
  25. ESCAPE TO EGYPT / MATTHEW 2:13
  26. CHIEF PRIESTS AND TEACHERS OF THE LAW / MATTHEW 2:4
  27. HEROD – MAGI / MATTHEW 2:1
  28. NO UNION WITH HER UNTIL / MATTHEW 1:25
  29. VIRGIN … GIVE BIRTH TO A SON / MATTHEW 1:23
  30. JESUS / MATTHEW 1:21
  31. MARY … JESUS / MATTHEW 1:16
  32. CHRIST – SON OF DAVID / MATTHEW 1:1
  33. GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST / MATTHEW 1:1-16
  34. I AM WITH YOU / MATTHEW 28:20
  35. KILL ALL THE BOYS / MATTHEW 2:16
  36. FORGIVENESS OF SINS / MATTHEW 26:28
  37. SATAN / MATTHEW 4:10
  38. DEVIL AND HIS ANGELS / MATTHEW 25:41
  39. MONEY / MATTHEW 6:24
  40. GO … MAKE DISCIPLES … BAPTIZING / MATTHEW 28:19
  41. SALT OF THE EARTH / MATTHEW 5:13
  42. YOU ARE WORTH MORE / MATTHEW 10:31
  43. GUIDED BY GRACE HOME

Thank you for taking the time to read my Daily Devotion
Blessings,
Margarita & Stace

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