Review:  Last week, Phil encouraged us to do the following in regard to Mt. 5:33-48: a) Behold Jesus. (2 Cor. 3:18) b) Pray. c) Take one step at a time. Any thoughts on how this went for you this week?  Beyond that, take a moment and reflect together (if you're in a group) on our familiar questions:  What is the Holy Spirit saying to you? And where is He calling you into obedience?

Take a moment and read this week's passage: Matthew 6:1-6 and 16-18. Notice the emphasis on Giving, Praying, and Fasting. Phil said that he seldom titles his messages but that if he titled this one, it would be called "An Audience of One."  What does he mean by that and how does it connect with this week's passage?

 Phil also told a story of playing soccer when he was young, and how his dad came up to him later on and said, "Phil, you are fast!"  He glowed for days afterward, and of course remembers it to this day.  We need to listen to our heavenly Father's voice speaking the same kind of affirmation and encouragement.  What affirming word have you heard from Him in the past?

What affirming word do you need to hear today?

According to the passage, it seems that Jesus expects His followers to practice the habits of Giving, Prayer, and Fasting. But why? If we aren't to practice these in order to gain our Father's approval (as Christians, we believe this come by His grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone), then why are we supposed to practice them?  (If you have trouble here, try looking at John 15 for a clue.)

 In verses 2, 5 and 16, Jesus says that those who make a show out of these practices "have already received their reward."  What reward is that?

 Jesus also says, in verses 3, 6 and 17, that practicing these habits privately and secretly that our "Father, who sees in secret will reward you."  What reward do you think this is?  (Again, consider John 15, or Galatians 5, or Psalm 27)

Phil suggested that we practice each of these.  Go do it this week!  But let me suggest an additional twist:  Find some way to give to someone this week, but do it secretly – don't tell anyone!  Remember that you're giving doesn't have to be monetary; it doesn't even need to be material things.  You might "give" by sending a note of encouragement, or by giving help or assistance in some other secret, unnoticed way.