Why the deepest parts of faith are often the ones no one else sees
Let’s be honest: we live in a world where almost everything gets shared. We post milestones, routines, opinions, and even our personal growth. So when Jesus talks about spiritual life happening in secret, it can feel surprising. But maybe that is exactly why His words still land so powerfully. Some of the deepest work God does in us happens away from the spotlight—quietly, personally, and often unnoticed by anyone else. And that is not a lesser kind of faith. It may actually be the real thing.
What Does “Hiddenness” Mean in the Devout Life?
When we talk about the “hiddenness” of the devout life, we are talking about a faith that is real even when no one is clapping for it. It is the quiet prayer no one hears. The unseen act of obedience. The choice to seek God without trying to look impressive. Jesus puts it this way: “when you fast… your Father who sees in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:16–18). In other words, not everything holy needs an audience. In fact, some of the most meaningful moments with God happen when there is no audience at all.
Why Discipline and Self-Control Matter
That is part of why spiritual discipline matters. Jesus spoke about fasting as something His followers would do, not as a strange extra for super-religious people. Fasting, prayer, and other simple practices help us learn not to be dragged around by every craving or impulse. They teach us that we do not have to say yes to everything we feel in the moment. As Scripture says, “train yourself for godliness” (1 Timothy 4:7–8). That kind of training is not cold or harsh. It is loving. It helps shape a heart that is more free, more steady, and more ready to follow God.
The Daily Struggle Inside Us
If you have ever wanted to do the right thing and then found yourself doing the opposite, you are not alone. That struggle is part of the Christian life. The apostle Paul said, “I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate” (Romans 7:15–25). That honesty is comforting, because it reminds us that spiritual growth is not about pretending we have it all together. It is about bringing our weakness to God again and again. Quiet habits like prayer, Scripture reading, fasting, and simple obedience help keep our hearts turned toward Him in the middle of that struggle.
When Self-Denial Helps—and When It Hurts
Christians sometimes use the word “asceticism” for practices of self-denial. That word can sound intimidating, but the basic idea is simple: sometimes giving something up helps us pay closer attention to God. That can be a good thing. But it can also go wrong. If we start thinking pain makes us holy, or strict habits make us better than other people, we have missed the point. Spiritual discipline is not about proving ourselves. It is about becoming more humble, more available to God, and more loving toward others.
Why Spiritual Life Often Belongs Behind the Scenes
Jesus even gives practical advice here: “anoint your head and wash your face” ([Matthew 6:16–18]()). In plain language, He is saying: do not make a show of your sacrifice. Do not wear your spiritual effort on your sleeve just so others will notice. Go about your day. Stay normal. Keep your attention on God. There is something deeply freeing about that. You do not have to manage your image. You do not have to look spiritual. You can simply be with God, and trust that He sees what no one else does.
What This Looks Like in Everyday Life
So what does this look like in real life? Maybe it is waking up a little earlier to pray before the house gets noisy. Maybe it is helping someone without mentioning it later. Maybe it is turning off your phone for a while so you can actually pay attention to God. Maybe it is fasting without telling anyone. These things may seem small, but they are not small to God. Hidden faithfulness shapes us over time. It teaches us to care more about God’s approval than public praise—and that is a deeply beautiful way to live.
Maybe that is the invitation here: not to build a spiritual image, but to build a real life with God. A life that is honest, steady, and quietly rooted in Him. The hiddenness of the devout life is not about secrecy for the sake of mystery. It is about sincerity. It is about learning to love God even when no one notices. And in a noisy world that constantly asks us to be seen, there is something profoundly peaceful about knowing that being seen by God is enough.
Reflection question: What is one small spiritual practice you can do this week quietly, simply, and for God alone?
Short prayer: Lord, teach me to seek You without needing attention, to love You in the quiet places, and to trust that Your eyes see every hidden act of faith. Make my heart sincere, humble, and steady in Your presence. Amen.
Minister A Francine Green, May 2026