Scripture to Read: Matthew 6:3–4
Jesus does want us to serve Him by serving others—He just does not want us to do it in a way that dishonors our Heavenly Father. Jesus said in Matthew 6:3–4, “But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving will be in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” Notice that Jesus said, “when you give,” not “if you give.” We are to give to the poor, and we are to give to meet the needs of those less fortunate than us. We are to give to make sure ministries thrive and have all they need to meet the spiritual, physical, and emotional needs of others. So, Jesus wants us to give. He just wants us to do it differently than this lost world. When Jesus said, “do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing,” we should have such a compassionate heart for helping others that we crucify any feelings of self-congratulation. Instead, each time we help someone in need, we walk away thanking our Heavenly Father for the opportunity He has given us to be used by Him for His glory. We also give God glory by sharing with the people we’re helping that the gift they are receiving is a gift from the God who created them and that we’re simply His tools being used by Him for His service. When possible, we should give our gifts in secret so God gets all the glory.
Challenge & Application
· What are some ways you can help someone else in need but at the same time do it in secret?
· How has God used others in your life in times of need but you never knew who God used, only that He blessed you?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!