They cannot be hid

1 Timothy 5:25

Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.

Whether good or ill, the works of men have a way of catching the spotlight. If a man will be evil, others will sooner or later be sure of it. If a man is a good man, bringing forth good works, it eventually cannot be hid from the eyes of the public. Our passage has taught us today that some men’s sins are open beforehand. In other words, before the judgment for their sin comes, everyone sees their sins. And therefore the judgment is only an understandable consequence. Other people are able to hide sin for a time. But that which is secret shall be made known. And that which is spoken in the ear shall be preached upon the housetops. Does not Jesus teach this—There is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known? It is true! And it is always true!

But our verses here remind us that if we will bring forth works pleasing to the Lord, they may be evident immediately—manifest beforehand. Before any thing comes of it, they may become obvious. But then there are others, who through humility, do things more covertly. They live their whole lives below the reach of the spotlight. They live without recognition or public favor. They do not lift themselves up, neither do they desire to be seen. These are the ones! These are the men and women to be rewarded! Their good works shall be made manifest! No doubt, others will see in time the contribution that they made. But if this life never affords any publicity, what will it be like around the throne of God? They shall be publicly rewarded! They shall be given crowns and diadems innumerable. For they did all things not to be seen of men, but to be seen by their Father which is in Heaven. What blessings and rewards will await! Let us do nothing to be seen of men, but only for the glory of the Father above. He alone will make everything right, for He has told us that nothing will be hidden.

“Father, thank you for this powerful truth. Thank you that you see and know all things. May we not seek recognition of others, but only of our Father. May we work diligently for Thy glory and for Thy Kingdom, knowing that you will make things known in your time and according to your holy will. In Christ’s name alone we pray, Amen.”