The Secret Life (Devotion)
January 1, 2023

The secret life of the believer corresponds to the inner life and our communion with the Father. This inner life, being renewed by the Lord daily, is for the purpose of His glory, our joy, and the good of all men. Jesus is gracious to point out the counterfeit that could be robbing us of this life.


Matthew 6:1

“Beware…in order to be seen…no reward from your Father…”

Three Implications:

  • We will be tempted to practice our righteousness before other people to be seen and praised by them.
  • It is likely that we often settle for the glory of men rather than pursuing the glory of God.
  • Jesus is pointing this out because it might not be obvious to us that we are doing life in this way.


43 I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me. If another comes in his own name, you will receive him. 44 How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God? —John 5:43–44 (ESV)


Matthew 6:2-18

“…may be in secret…who sees in secret will reward you.”

Two Paradigms:

  • There is a secret “inner” life of communion that takes place between you and the Creator and sustainer of all things.
  • God is seeking to find you in a place to reward you.


16 So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. 17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, —2 Corinthians 4:16–17 (ESV)


Matthew 10:26-33

“What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered…”

One Exhortation:

A life that includes solitude and quiet for the express purpose of hearing directly from the Lord. Joining Him at the table to which you have been invited. (His Word and not someone else’s gleanings from His word)


8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, 10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel, 11 for which I was appointed a preacher and apostle and teacher, 12 which is why I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that day what has been entrusted to me. —2 Timothy 1:8–12 (ESV)