A few weeks ago, I came across this quote from Benjamin Franklin -
The eyes of other people are the eyes that ruin us. If all but myself were blind, I should want neither fine clothes, fine houses, nor fine furniture.
At once I was struck by the wisdom and truth in these few words. How well it describes us as modern Americans in trying to keep up with the “Jones”! Indeed, if no one else could appreciate our material things – and when you get down to it, if no one could envy our material things – would we even want them anymore?
Even though I know that Benjamin Franklin was not anywhere close to being a deeply religious individual, my mind took his words and applied them in a spiritual sense. I mean, think about it – what would happen if everyone in the world were blind to all of our outward appearances of Christianity? What would happen if no one could see our show? I think most people who work hard in the Christian realm really do want to do a good job for God and His kingdom. But, I have to think that most don’t mind if others know about it as well. I know this because I often find myself in the same selfish mindset.
But would those same works matter to us as much, if at all, if no one could see or know that they ever happened? How would we feel if we knew that no one would ever look at us and think “Wow – I wish I could be as good a Christian as that person is”? Would I be writing this blog? (Ouch!!) Would you still do whatever it is you do?
As modern day Christians we must be ever vigilant to guard our motives regarding our work for the kingdom. In Matthew 6:16, Jesus cautions us to not put on a show for the benefit of others:
When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. (NIV)
Our challenge is simple – let’s see how much we can get done for God’s kingdom when we work with the “spiritual” Jones instead of competing against them!!
© Gregory M. Watson, 2008 (see Copyright Page for details)
