2: Apparently, nobody actually blew a trumpet when they gave their alms, however, they might as well have. The leaders of the Jews liked to make a big deal out of their giving. They would try to draw attention to their supposed piety. The synagogues and streets were places where alms would be given. These were not always bad places to give. However, one did not have to draw attention to the giving on purpose. Jesus says that they have their reward. This means that the only reward they would receive, that of men, was already theirs. They would get nothing from Almighty God for such hypocrisy.
Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 75:1-78:72
Daily Memory Verse: Jude 1:7 “Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.”
Daily Tidbit: An emperor penguin can hold its breath for twenty minutes.
Praise Journal: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your patience with us. We so often think only of ourselves, and what we want. We very often forget the needs of others, and fail to consider what You want from us altogether. Instead, we many time think only of what You can do for us. Our creature comforts are petty. Give us a sense of how much more we can have in life if we get a vision for Your will. If our will can be lost in Yours, maybe we will see the true measure of what a life can be worth. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.
Prayer Journal Highlights: Pray for two women with spiritual needs. Pray for those who are travelling. Pray for a boy with social and spiritual needs. Pray for a young man who is sick. Pray for a missionary looking for a building for church.
Personal Journal Entry #12179