I'm conscious of a tension. 

I'm acutely aware that those of us who carry any sort of leadership have a responsibility to model what we seek to encourage in others.  We can teach eloquently about Christlike character, Godly attitudes and Spirit-led behaviour, but if we aspire to influence others, we have to model what we preach.  The optics are important; people may listen to what we say, but they will be far more deeply impacted by what they see in our lives. 

People are watching. 

Indeed Jesus promises that we should expect this: "…let your light shine before people, so they can see the good things you do and praise your Father who is in heaven." (Mt 5:16) 

But Jesus also says: "…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."  (Mt 6:5) 

In fact he insists: "… 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. (Mt 6:6) 

To be seen or not to be seen; is that the question?
Surely the real question is 'To be seen by whom'? 

It is not whether other people are watching.  Like it or not, they will be!
The real question is whether I am choosing to live openly, consciously and intentionally, under the loving – yet penetrating –  gaze of 'my Father, who sees in secret'.
He delights to watch me.  How much do I delight in being watched by Him?

My hidden life with God will determine the degree to which I carry His life within me.  And it is His life within me that is infectious… and transformative.  I can only model what I embody. 

I've always been struck by the so-called 'Mumps & Measles principle' as explained by Sim Dendy in his book 'Simply Church': 

"As a leader, if you say you have mumps but are actually carrying measles, then those following you will catch what you are carrying, not what you say you have." 

Hence, no matter how much I may exhort others to wholeheartedly worship, pray, fast or meditate-on-Scripture, if I am not consistently practising these things myself – and therefore unselfconsciously modelling them – it should be no surprise if the church lacks enthusiasm to do likewise. 

Companion Spirit, may my life be held secure with 'the belt of integrity' (Eph 6:14).
Forgive me when I secretly hope to impress others, while – if I am honest – my words outrun my personal practice.
It's your reward I seek, Father; only yours.