Matthew 6:3 “But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.”

Jesus was full into his ‘Sermon on the Mount’ when he addressed the issue of giving. His statement comes with two specific directives. The first is “when you give”. The word ‘when’ eliminates any possibility that giving is an optional behavior – you are to give…period. Jesus does clearly tell us that it is the needy to whom our responsibility to give lies. Secondly, you are not to do so openly, either bragging or receiving praise for your generosity. God will always see your generosity and compassion and reward it. But those who are more consumed with worldly fame and reputation receive the glory themselves, instead of the glory going to God, when they trumpet their own goodness and make a show of giving (much like the Pharisees and Sadducees of Jesus’ day). Ask any homeless person or someone who has had a great need met by the kindness of a stranger and they will tell you that they recognize God’s hand of provision in the timely blessing. If you seek to bring honor to your Heavenly Father, then your giving and care for the needy must be, whenever possible, for his eyes only. For followers of Christ, giving is a mandate. Just do it.

Pray: “Holy Lord, you were clear about what is expected from your followers. Giving is to be a part of our Christian walk. Help those who are just beginning to practice giving to see the opportunities around them. Help those who have exercised giving too infrequently to establish it as part of their living witness. Give me the wisdom to recognize true need and to share the resources you have provided me. And when I give, let it be you, and you alone, who receive the glory and honor for it, Father. In Jesus blessed name I ask it – Amen.