No Good Deed Goes Unnoticed Scripture: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 6:1 (NIV)

Imagine walking through a park and noticing scattered trash—plastic cups, wrappers, and bottles. None of it is yours, and no one else seems bothered by it. You pause, bend down, and begin cleaning it up. No one stops to thank you, and you may wonder, “Does this even matter?”

Acts like picking up trash may seem insignificant or go unnoticed by those around us. But in these moments, we embody the spirit of humility and stewardship. Matthew 6:1 reminds us that our righteousness should be for God’s eyes—not the applause of others. Even when no one acknowledges our efforts, God sees and cherishes every act of goodness done with a pure heart.

Cleaning up a shared space can also be seen through the lens of Genesis 2:15: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” This act fulfills our God-given responsibility to care for creation. In these humble, unseen gestures, we honor Him by taking ownership of the world He entrusted to us.

Additionally, Philippians 2:3-4 teaches: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” By cleaning up a space that benefits everyone, we place the needs of others above our own convenience—offering a gift of cleanliness and beauty that reflects God’s love.

Today, let your kindness be like picking up trash—done without expectation of recognition, but as an offering to God. Every quiet act of service is a seed sown in His kingdom, and He is faithful to reward those who serve with love and humility.

Prayer: Lord, help me to see opportunities for humble service in everyday life. May I find joy in caring for Your creation and serving others, even when no one notices. Let my deeds reflect Your goodness and bring glory to Your name. Ame

Darryl Stearns

March 27 2025