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Celebrate Recovery is a safe place with kind people who are working together to deal with hurts, habits, and hangups. Have questions? Contact our CR Leader - Tim Hughey

Check our website for upcoming events and over lots of past teachings on many different topics.

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Everyone has heard the phrase, “Turn the other cheek.” Most people can even tell you who said it. But what was Jesus meaning when He said that? Today we are challenged to care for those who don't care for us.

Your reward from God is forfeited when you do the right thing for the wrong reason, to be seen by people.

Jesus expects His followers to give to the needy, but NOT for the wrong reasons, to be honored by others. Do not announce it with trumpets is a humorous hyperbole. Jesus calls these people hypocrites - people who are pretending to be something or be someone they aren’t (Greek term used of actors who played multiple roles by putting on multiple masks). Jesus says they have received their reward in full - the applause of people - and that’s where there reward ends. 

• The one who wants God to reward them won’t parade it on the streets or post it on social media.

The left hand/right hand language is a hyperbole, an exaggeration to make a point. What’s the point?

• Kent Hughes ”The idea is, not only are we not to tell others of our giving—we are not to make a big deal of it to ourselves.”
• It’s then that your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Jesus calls God your Father - your Creator, Provider, & Protector - the One who sees all you do and will reward you!

It’s not whether what we do HAS BEEN SEEN by others, but whether what we do is done TO BE SEEN by others. 

The goal of good works is to honor our Father.

• Our good works done in public are to demonstrate humility, love, and sincerity.
• If we are doing it TO BE SEEN by others, then we’re doing it wrong.

We see the point of the hypocrite’s prayer: to be seen by others. Jesus again says that’s ALL the reward they will get - the applause of people, but not the approval of the Father.

Jesus is NOT saying we can never pray in public. How do we know this? The early church, led by the apostles of Jesus prayed in public. The difference? They were praying seeking the approval of God rather than the applause of people.

Jesus was not condemning public prayer, but prayer for the public. Remember WHO you are praying to.

Jesus was not condemning public prayer, but prayer for the public. Remember WHO you are praying to.

• Join us on Sunday, April 16 to hear teaching on “The Lord’s Prayer”.
• You don’t get God’s attention because of your many words or a formula you follow. 
• God hears you because of the Father He is. Your Father knows what you need, so just ask!
• You might be quick to lead prayer in public, but do you spend time praying in private?

Fasting is sacrificing time to eat in order to pray; going without food in order to seek God’s Presence & God’s answers. In fact, while fasting is not commanded it seems to be expected. Do you have something serious to pray about? Consider taking the time you would eat and spend it instead, spend it in prayer.

But when you fast, it should not be obvious to others. If it is, then the applause of other people is all the reward you will receive.

If you really want God to respond, keep your fast a secret. “And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

• God knows your needs. God knows your sincerity. Your Father will reward you by answering your prayer. 
• God will also reward you on the day you go to Him or the day He comes to you. Unless…He is not your Father.

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Take some time to discuss these questions with your family, friends, or group.

1. What challenged or encouraged you most from today’s teaching? (Look back in your notes to help explain your answer.)
2. Read Matthew 6:1-8, 16-18. Consider today’s BIG QUESTION: Do I seek the approval of God or the applause of people?. After reading our entire passage from today, why does answering this question sincerely matter so much?
3. Read Matthew 5:16 & Acts 4:23–31. How is it that Christians aren’t disobeying Jesus by doing good deeds or praying in public? What attitudes help us make sure our that our actions and prayers are not out of bounds with what Jesus wants?
4. Read Acts 13:2–3. Many Christians have never practiced fasting. What was the outcome of the church in Antioch worshiping the Lord and fasting? Is there any special reason why you might consider fasting in the future? 
5. How do YOU plan to serve others during the LOVE LOUD event next Sunday? 
6. PRAY for God’s opportunities and protection over His church this week. Then, share prayer needs & pray for one another.