Devotion – Matthew 23

S – In the same way, on the outside you seem righteous to people, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. 

Matthew 23:28 CSB

O – Commentary: 

A custom then was to keep tombs painted white on the outside so they would appear beautiful. But inside the tombs was the decaying flesh of dead people. Similarly, while the Pharisees appeared beautiful on the outside because of their religious conformity, they were corrupt and decaying inside. They were full of hypocrisy and wickedness (anomias, “lawlessness

“Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

A – We all want to look good to others.  It isn’t wrong to spend time on the outside as long as it is a reflection of a healthy inside.  Our main effort should be in developing our hearts.  We should be honest and sincere using the Word of God as the foundation for our actions.  

R – Lord, I thank you that I come to you a sinner. My human nature and desires can be covered up.  But, you see my heart.  Help me to come to you in full transparency so I can grow in my heart, which will be a greater reflection on my outside.  That is the part I want people to see.  My relationship with you reflected on the outside in a health, vibrant way.