But there was a certain man named Ananias who, with his wife, Sapphira, sold some property. He brought part of the money to the apostles, claiming it was the full amount. With his wife’s consent, he kept the rest. – Acts 5:1-2
After witnessing the selfless generosity of Barnabas, Ananias and Sapphira found themselves longing for the same admiration and approval. They watched how the church respected Barnabas for giving generously, and they wanted that same praise. So they sold a piece of land. But rather than giving the full amount, they kept part of it for themselves—while pretending to give it all.
The issue wasn’t in holding back some of the money. The issue was deception. They wanted to appear more generous than they truly were. They wanted a reputation for godliness without the reality of godliness in their hearts.
This temptation is still with us today.
We may not lie about a financial gift, but we can easily create a false impression of our spiritual life. We might make our devotion to Christ seem deeper than it really is. We might pretend to have peace, when we’re actually struggling. We may talk about prayer, but rarely pray. We can put on a show for others, but God sees past every performance.
Friend, God is not looking for perfect people—He’s looking for honest ones. He wants hearts that are fully surrendered, not acts that look holy on the outside while hiding compromise on the inside.
Isaiah warned God’s people about this very thing: “Your outward worship means nothing to Me if your heart isn’t in it” (see Isaiah 1:11–14, paraphrased). God isn’t impressed by empty rituals or spiritual showmanship. He desires truth in the inward parts.
So let me ask you:
Are your motives clean before the Lord? Do your actions match what’s in your heart? Are you being real with God and with others?
God is not only concerned with what we do—but why we do it. Let’s not settle for appearances. Let’s seek to walk in integrity, honesty, and humility—knowing that God blesses the heart that truly belongs to Him.
Today’s Prayer
Lord, search my heart. Show me if there is any false way in me. Help me to live with honesty and sincerity before You and others. I want to be real—not just look spiritual. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Former Blackout Artist 