Matthew 6:3 (KJV)
But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:
There are many forms of giving in the Bible. In each instance, the Bible is very clear about what qualifies a giving that is both honored by God and that is pleasing to Him.
Our gifts are mostly an expression of gratitude towards God and God is most interested in the motives behind the giving as well as the heart condition of the giver. In this very verse, Christ challenged the concept of giving practiced by the religious leaders of his time especially as it relates to charitable giving. What we call arms or giving to the poor and needy.
The first thing to establish is that the poor or needy here does not necessarily mean someone who is materially needy but anyone who is in the position of receiving your help or assistance. Meaning that when you and I have the opportunity to be a blessing to someone, the way, and manner in which we do it, is fundamentally important in the eyes of God.
Our motivation in all we do is the basis of our reward from God. Jesus spoke by way of analogy for it is practically impossible for your left hand not to know what your right hand is doing. The case here is the attitude of honoring God in the life of those who receive from us by way of charitable contributions or gifts. The lesson therefore is:
1. Do not be boastful about what you do by way of charitable contributions or gifts. See it as a privilege and an honor to be a blessing to someone in need.
2. Let your motivation and heart condition be that which is pleasing to God.
3. See charitable contributions or gifts as an opportunity to serve God in someone else’s life.
4. Remember that you can as well be on the receiving end of it, so don’t allow pride or self-glorification control mind.
5. Prayerfully ask God what to do and how to respond when these opportunities arise.
You are blessed and highly favored.
Shalom,
Apostle Morgan.