Matthew 6:2 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.
This is part of one of the more famous sermons that Jesus preached – the Sermon on the Mount. It is found in Matthew chapter 6 and covers quite an array of topics. Today’s verse is just one amongst the collection of teachings. In it we see Jesus telling His audience to be humble in their giving. Let’s look at it closer and see what we can learn today.
When you give to the needy assumes that you are giving. It does not say “If you give” but rather “when you give.” Jesus basically tells people they are to give to others, to those who are needy and need support – usually the widows, orphans, and the like.
He told them not to announce their giving with fanfare. Only hypocrites announced their “good deeds” with fanfare. He gave the example of trumpets blaring. Trumpets were used to call attention to something. In the case of hypocrites it was to call attention to their giving. They used whatever means they could to bring attention to themselves so that they would receive recognition for “going good.” The problem with this was it was only a temporary attention grab and was soon forgotten. That is why He concluded with they have received their reward in full. They had already received their reward that they sought – attention.
Instead, we are to be humble in our giving, not calling attention to ourselves. We know that when we give with a humble attitude, we will receive reward from God in heaven. We might not receive public recognition or reward but God sees and He knows what we have done. He knows the sacrifice that came with your giving. And because He knows all of this and more, He will reward you accordingly. We do not give for the sake of receiving. Our giving is not done to receive recognition or reward, but rather to bless the recipient and provide for their needs.
Who can you give to privately and with humility? Pray over where God directs you to give and know that He sees what you are doing and the sacrifice that comes with it. Choose humility over public recognition and pride.
Prayer: Lord, Open my eyes to those who are in need and show me how I might be able to bless them with a humble heart. I want to give generously without recognition. Amen
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