Matthew 6:16–24 < Hidden Devotion, One Master >

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📖 Matthew 6:16–24 < Hidden Devotion, One Master >

24 No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

✨ Hidden Fasting, Integrity Before God

Jesus did not forbid fasting. Rather, He warned against “devotion performed to be seen by others” (Matt. 6:16). When the heart seeks recognition and distorts the face, it has already received its reward. True devotion is an inward posture that looks to God in secret. God sees what is done in secret and rewards it. Grace begins in the heart.

✨ Visible Treasures, Invisible Treasures

Jesus addresses not wealth itself, but its direction (Matt. 6:19–21). Earthly treasures decay and disappear, but heavenly treasures endure forever. What we value most guides our hearts. Even religious zeal aimed at earning righteousness can become a treasure for self-glory. The gospel calls us not to our own merit, but to cling to the righteousness of Christ.

✨ If the Eye Is Clear, the Whole Body Is Full of Light

The eye is the window of the heart (Matt. 6:22–23). When our vision is clouded, our entire life grows dark. The standard by which we see and judge determines our direction. The gospel realigns our vision—moving us from performative devotion to a devotion that trusts God.

✨ One Master, a Clear Choice

Jesus speaks plainly: we cannot serve both God and money (Matt. 6:24). Money is a tool, not a master. The gospel sets us free—not to live driven by fear, but to rely on one true Lord. Those who know grace make decisive choices.

🙏 Prayer

God who sees what is done in secret, turn our eyes from human approval to Your face. Guard our hearts from visible treasures and teach us to love what is eternal. Heal our divided loyalties, that we may serve You alone. Trusting in the righteousness of Christ, grant us freedom and joy in obedience.

🔍 Application

  • For whom is your devotion today—others, or God? Examine your heart before Him.

  • What treasure most captivates your heart? Choose what is eternal.

  • Give God first place, so that money and achievement do not become your master.

💡 Meditation Point

Hidden devotion is the fruit of a heart made alive by the gospel. When our vision is purified, life grows bright. In choosing one Master, the freedom and peace of the kingdom of God begin.

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