Welcome to our new project, the Daily Bible Devotional. The goal is to help you understand and apply

scripture as you go through a New Testament Bible read five days a week, Monday through Friday,

as we move from Matthew straight through to Revelation. In under four minutes each morning, we will recap the chapter,

make some application, present thought questions for the day, and offer a prayer together.

I'm excited about exploring God's word with you, so let's get started.

Welcome this morning to our study from Matthew chapter 6. Let's jump right in. As the sermon on the mount

continues, Jesus explains that righteousness is not just what we do, but also why we do it. To illustrate,

Jesus uses three examples, giving, praying, and fasting. Charity is a staple in the disciples' life, but it must be for God and

others, not ourselves. Prayer is a powerful testimony of faith, but it must be about fellowship

with God, not the praise of others. Fasting is about focusing on God, not impressing others. This is all about treasure in heaven

with God, not on earth. Jesus' disciples are not worried about the things of this life because they

live for heaven. They trust in God, live for Him, and know that He will take care of them if they seek him above all else.

Let's explore some takeaway ideas from this great chapter. Jesus touches on sensitive topics

in this chapter, giving to the poor, praying faithfully, and fasting from things to give attention to

God.

These are all challenges in our busy lives.

How can we grow in them?

Start from a place of love for God and others, and then be thankful for these outlets of praise.

Carry that heart into the area of money and worry as well.

These have choked out the word in many lives. We cannot serve God and money. We cannot live in anxiety and be courageous in Christ. Put his kingdom first.

Pray continually and allow the spirit to mold you, practicing righteousness from the heart

one day at a time. Do not worry about tomorrow.

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