Hidden Faithfulness

 

Scripture: “Your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” — Matthew 6:4

When I was a new pastor, I used to gather with a small cadre of fellow Presbyterian ministers in the area where I served in Florida.  We would get together once a month for lunch and general chit-chat, and being new to my role, I hoped to learn as much as I could from the others. 

There was one guy that I struggled to connect with, though. 

He loved to brag.  He boasted about the size of his congregation, how many people were in worship, and how much money they had. He also believed that no one else should be preaching at his church except him (I felt pity for his associate pastor), and he gave the clear impression that he was the only person in his church building with any good ideas. 

As a brand-new, impressionable pastor, I quickly learned that sometimes a poor example could be a good example.  

I would like to say that I have never let pride sneak into my heart over the last twenty years since those lunch meetings, but I have let it in on occasion.  But when it has, I have the memories of that former colleague to draw on, and they serve as mirrors, showing me what it looks like from the outside.  

I have learned over the years that the most impactful and transformative work in a church is done behind the scenes, with people serving quietly, not seeking credit, and bent on helping others succeed.   

Just because I'm usually the main person "up front" doesn't mean I'm the most valuable part of the faith community I serve.  But I want to do everything I can to become more and more like the saints I see who serve in the shadow, rather than the spotlight.  

We live in a culture where visibility often defines value. We measure success by what can be posted, shared, celebrated, or measured. Yet Jesus teaches that some of the holiest acts are the ones no one will ever see — acts of service, generosity, compassion, and prayer that are not performed but offered.

Some of the greatest saints are unknown: caregivers who pour out love with no recognition, neighbors who check in quietly, intercessors who pray in the early hours, teachers who plant seeds without seeing their fruit, adults who mentor a single child, and elders who encourage younger generations through handwritten notes. 

These quiet offerings shape the kingdom more than any spotlight ever could.

God sees every unseen act of faithfulness, and heaven celebrates what earth overlooks. Holiness is not determined by platform but by posture. When we live for applause, we become performers; when we live for God’s delight, we become disciples.

Prayer

Invisible God, teach us to value unseen faithfulness over public praise. Shape our hearts to love quietly, give joyfully, and serve humbly. May our reward always be your smile. Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. What unseen act of faithfulness might God be calling you toward?

2. How do you respond when your efforts are unnoticed?

3. Where can you shift from performance to joyful offering?