The grand gesture is very popular right now. Students are going to great lengths to ask their dates to the homecoming dance. Fiances climb mountains to propose at the perfect spot. We like to make a big deal out of the simplest acts. Jesus commands us to do the opposite. He calls us to selfless giving. Our motivation should be to bless others, not draw attention to ourselves. Break the mold and become a selfless giver.
Matthew 6:1,3
“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret.
A Clanging Noise
Giving at the annual feasts in Jerusalem was a big show. People would go to the treasury to watch the wealthy drop coins into large brass receptacles. The more coins they put in, the louder the sound, making everyone turn and watch. The wealthy did it for recognition. The disciple of Jesus needs to give where no one notices except Jesus.
Be A Cheerful Giver
Jesus gives us a fundamental principle here. When we give financial resources, our hearts should be motivated by blessing others, not recognition. We should do it in such a way that we don’t even notice it. What does that mean? It means that the Lord so moves our hearts, and our attitude is measured by what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 9:6, “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” Our hearts should desire to give with cheerful hearts. Our giving should never be motivated out of obligation.
Selfless Giving
When we give what we have, it should be automatic. There shouldn’t be a second thought if we should give or not. It should be so natural that it happens without being noticed. Money and selfishness can be among the strongest idols entrenched in our hearts. The only way to overcome that is by starting to give. We know that we have overcome that idol when our heart is overjoyed by giving, and we do it without being noticed.