Quiet Table Guide: July 28 – August 3

Scripture: Matthew 6:1–6, 16-18

“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. So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

1. Ready Your Heart

Begin with a moment of silence or a short prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your time together.

2. Read

Slowly read this week’s passage. (Consider reading it out loud or in a different translation each day.)

3. Reflect

What word, phrase, or image stands out to you today? What in your life might the Holy Spirit be drawing your attention to?

4. Respond

How can you allow this word to shape your interactions, decisions, or perspective today?

5. Receive

Spend a few moments in stillness, surrendering your thoughts, plans, and actions to God and resting in the presence of Jesus.

SPIRITUAL PRACTICE FOR THE WEEK: The Secret Seven

This week’s shared practice weaves together silence, solitude, and secrecy in one simple rhythm.

1. Get Alone with God

Find a quiet space—your dining room table, favorite chair, or even your parked car

Put your phone in Do Not Disturb

Set a timer for 7 minutes

2. Sit in Silence with God

Take a few deep breaths and become aware of God’s presence

When distractions come—and they will—gently return to this prayer:

As you breathe in, pray: Speak, Lord

As you breathe out, pray: Your servant is listening

3. Seek God’s direction

When the timer ends, ask God, What hidden act of love or obedience can I do today?

Then, do it quietly

Don’t post about it

Don’t announce it

Let it be between you and God