But when you do tzedakah [good works], do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing … Matthew 6:3, TLV
Hidden Good Works. Today’s verse is part of the “Sermon on the Mount.” (Matthew 5-7) Contained within these chapters are the most in-depth lessons on how to practically live out the Torah (Genesis through Deuteronomy). It’s important to finish Yeshua’s sentence with verse four in order to get a better understanding of what He is communicating:
… so that your tzedakah may be in secret; and your Father, who sees in secret, shall reward you. (vs. 4, TLV)
I love when we’re given insights into the culture of that period. Scripture contains certain colloquialism of that time that don’t mean anything to us in this century. But this one is pretty straight forward: Let our good works be done in private.
“Given anonymously.”
Having worked in the nonprofit/ministry sector for over 15 years, it was rare when someone gave anonymously. Most times ministry directors courted major donors with promises of recognition in some fashion or another. Names on buildings. Announcements in the media. Management of projects.
In all fairness, the wealthy are tapped for donations incessantly, I 
suppose as they weigh the value of their investments, some may consider recognition a part of that return on their investment.
But that’s not how our Father sees giving.
… and God chose the lowly and despised things of the world, the things that are as nothing, so He might bring to nothing the things that are—so that no human might boast before God. (1 Corinthians 1:28-29, TLV)
Whatever we have belongs to GOD, we are but stewards. From money to possessions, investments, even family, they all belong to our Creator. Following that Biblical thinking, then, it is presumptuous — I think — to take credit for any giving. Because, really, we’re just stewarding His stuff. So, perhaps, in GOD’s eyes the amount doesn’t matter. It’s whether we’re obedient in what and how we give.
As stewards, we need to be wise with the “talents” He gives us:
To one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, each according to his own ability. Then [the master] went on his journey. (Matthew 25: 15ff, TLV)
We can invest and grow these “talents,” but ultimately all belong to the Master.
Our tax laws and with all the charitable organizations sending out their appeals, it’s a bit difficult to follow Jesus’s exhortation. But there may come a day when we will be given the choice to give without recognition and financial/tax benefit. Will we still give? Something to think about as we begin this new year.
Think More About It
Will we give? And who will know?
Thanks for stopping by. I love your comments and insights!
