Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’
—Matthew 7:21-23
Jesus gives us a pretty sobering reminder in these verses. I think Jesus is saying that it’s not enough to just say the right things or do things in His name. We can show up, pray the “right” prayers, or do good works, and still be missing the point if our heart isn’t really in it.
Jesus cares about what’s inside our hearts. He cares about our motives, our choices, and whether we’re actually living in a way that follows Him. It’s not about looking good or checking off spiritual “to-do’s.” It’s about a relationship that shows up in everyday life, especially when no one else is watching.
The small decisions we make, the kindness we show, the honesty we practice… these things matter. They are the real evidence of faith, not just the words you say on Sunday, the donations you give, or the outward actions people see. Jesus is calling us to live with hearts fully devoted to Him.
Are we living for God because we truly love Him, or just to look like we’re following Him? Even when it’s hard or unnoticed, the choices we make matter. Matthew 6:21 says “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” If our hearts are set on Jesus, our lives will naturally reflect Him.
Prayer
Jesus, help us live for You, not just for others to see. Give us a heart that seeks You, even in the small things, and help our actions reflect our love for You every day. Amen.
Amen
Reminders…thank you, Emily