I read this verses and I reflect on the fact that God desires our full attention. When we attempt to gain attention from others by our “righteousness,” we loss the connection with God and the actions become fruitless. Spiritual disciplines are ways to connect with God and we should not lose that focus. Whether it is tithing or fasting we need to do this not for the approval and attention of others but to drawl closer to God. I have seen this play true in my life. God has interacted with me in very personal ways when I maintain this focus. I must say that it is not easy. I battle internal desires to be recognized and have to work on dismissing them. I desperately what to hear from God and enjoy when I do, and I find the enemy looks ways to keep this from happening. I find for men that we must keep our narcissistic tendencies in check which sabotage humility. It doesn’t take much from the enemy to break this connection or highlight this tendency. I have been trying over the years to see it for what it is and refocus. I wish it was a one time battle, but it seems to be an on going one. Sorry for the babbling – these are just my initial thoughts.