Today's Scripture:

Matthew 6:1-6 “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. “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 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. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Read: Reflect on a story in your life that pertains to this scripture.
These verses tell us that we shouldn't do good things with the intent of getting attention; rather we should do righteous things with sincerity. The good actions that we do, such as helping those in need or praying, should be done for God and with a pure heart. If we do them only to capture the attention of others, we are doing them for the wrong reason.

Reflect: What is this scripture telling you during this season?
Early in my scouting career, I participated in many service projects. I originally thought they were a waste of my time and thought that there was little value in participating. I was doing the service projects because they were a scouting requirement. I was just counting up the hours, as I just wanted to have a very strong record. It hit me later in my scouting journey that service projects were an amazing opportunity to love other people and to show God my love for Him. I no longer cared about how the number of hours looked on my record. Currently, I am more sincere with my actions, and I know that what I am doing has value and helps people in need. I realized that I should never serve to hit a goal; rather I just need to serve God and with a pure heart.

Respond: How is this scripture calling you to respond?
This scripture is calling me to remember to think about my actions. It is calling me to think about the reason why I'm doing the things I am doing. I need to think about every opportunity I have as a gift and as a way to express and give glory to our Lord Jesus Christ.

About Zach Myers:
I am the son of Liz and Franklin Myers, and I have a twin brother, Thomas, as well as other siblings. I am a senior at Houston Christian High School, and I enjoy being a part of the Houston Christian Band, Drumline and Theatreworks. I am proud to say that I am an Eagle Scout. I am looking forward to attending Baylor University this fall.
I have been involved with Grace for eight years as a student in Student Ministries. I am also a member of Grace School's graduating class of 2020. I have served Grace through service projects, community events, and worship services.