"Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 6:1 (RSV)
Piety is the living expression of the faith that is within us. It is intended to be a healthy practice that leads us deeper into Christ. Piety is like our heartbeat; it is necessary for life as a believer. Piety is a thank-offering to the Lord and a blessing to our neighbor.
Should our piety become focused on ourselves, becoming a way we seek others' praise, then it is an unhealthy thing. Piety of this nature becomes toxic in that it soon begins to demand that others conform to our expressions of outward faith.
Jesus warns that this piety's only reward is the show it puts on for others. True, we may be praised by those who are impressed by such a display, but it has no place in the Kingdom.
Healthy piety is rooted in a living relationship with Jesus. Living in this way, no one may notice how we live in Christ, but they will be blessed by the love of Christ that flows through us. The closer we are to the heart of the Savior, the more His light of mercy and love shines for all to see.