"So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving will be in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you." -Matthew 6:2-4 (NASB)
At work, I am involved in a "secret pal" activity. Those involved have anonymously selected a "secret pal" and secretly give a small treat each week throughout the winter months and into the beginning of spring. Even in something small like being a "secret pal", we can get joy by giving a gift and brightening someone's day. Whether we are giving a something small or something large, whether it is a planned or spontaneous effort, we are making a difference, but we should take time to evaluate why and how we give.
Jesus warns us that we shouldn't be giving just to receive honor and glory from other people. If we give with the goal of earthly recognition, that is all we will receive. When we give and help others, we should do so out of love. When we give from love, like Jesus demonstrated for us, without thought or focus on earthly rewards, then we are truly giving for the right reasons and God will notice! We can be "secret pals", spreading love and joy to many people in all different ways!
Think about why you give, then be sure it is out of love like Jesus has shown you!
Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for all that You have given me. Help me to act out of love, without regard for earthly reward, so I can help others and spread Your love. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.
Jesus warns us that we shouldn't be giving just to receive honor and glory from other people. If we give with the goal of earthly recognition, that is all we will receive. When we give and help others, we should do so out of love. When we give from love, like Jesus demonstrated for us, without thought or focus on earthly rewards, then we are truly giving for the right reasons and God will notice! We can be "secret pals", spreading love and joy to many people in all different ways!
Think about why you give, then be sure it is out of love like Jesus has shown you!
Prayer:
Dear God-
Thank You for all that You have given me. Help me to act out of love, without regard for earthly reward, so I can help others and spread Your love. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.
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