“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. Matthew 6: 2 New International Version
In the time of Jesus walking the earth they would have collection boxes made to be like trumpets. When you gave a lot it would make a lot of noise. The people would see who it was and they would be filled with pride.
God says okay that is your reward.
That does not mean we cannot do good things in public.
When we do good things we are to do them to bring glory to God and as an act of gratitude to God for all He has given us.
We are to give from the heart but also from the brain.
If we are just getting by God does not expect you to put your grocery money in the collection plate because that equals your one tenth.
If you cannot afford to support the Christian community financially, do so by giving your time.
Now that does not mean you are only to give to Christians.
By your sharing with those wisely (do not give to drug addicts on the streets who are only going to use the money to buy drugs. Instead give to the soup kitchen or some support service that will help them break free of their addiction if they want to. Sadly most of them do not want to. I speak from a lot of experience seeing it as a volunteer) who are in need and not Christian your kindness may bring them to Christ.
“The praise of others need not even be sought by one who acts rightly” Augustine
He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done. Proverbs 19:17 New International Version
So how is your trumpet sounding to Jesus?
Prayer: Please Jehovah Chanan (God is gracious) lead me to behave graciously towards the needy as You have blessed me with Your beautiful grace. I ask this in the name of He who graciously died for a poor sinner like me Jesus Christ. Amen.
May the sweet sunshine of Jesus' precious love bless you today and every day.
Please contact the author at: solomon2004@mail.com if you are interested in purchasing this article. Thank you.
Read more articles by Anthony Green or search for articles on the same topic or others.
LEAVE COMMENT ON ARTICLE
