Just For Show

Matthew 23:1-12

Seven Woes
1Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: 2"The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. 3So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. 4They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.

5"Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries[a] wide and the tassels on their garments long; 6they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; 7they love to be greeted in the marketplaces and to have men call them 'Rabbi.'

8"But you are not to be called 'Rabbi,' for you have only one Master and you are all brothers. 9And do not call anyone on earth 'father,' for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. 10Nor are you to be called 'teacher,' for you have one Teacher, the Christ.[b] 11The greatest among you will be your servant. 12For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

Reflection of Bee:

Last night's devotion reminds us to focus on a woman of substance or character instead of one of mere external beauty (Prov 31:30). Tonight, again we are reminded that we should not behave like a hypocrite who focuses on putting on false front without inner conviction. We are not to exalt ourselves, but rather humble ourselves like a servant. Jesus is a very good example of humility and is exalted on high by God.


Dear Lord,
I know I am nothing without You. I would be lost and sinful if not for Your saving grace. May my life be one that will bring honour to Your name and blessing to those who cross my path. May others know more about You as I share Your works in my life with them.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.