For

many of the people Jesus was speaking to in this passage, generosity

and righteousness were considered the same. And it was not uncommon

that people publicized their giving.

That

happens today too. We see it when a famously wealthy person gives

part of their fortune to a charity—along with a press release and

media interviews.

Public

recognition can feel good. It can be nice to hear praise when you can

provide something that would otherwise not be possible. But Jesus

says there is an even greater reward for people who give quietly. Who

do you want keep­ing the records when it comes to your

generosity? Is the applause of the world better than the reward of

blessing from God?

When

it comes to giving generously, three principles come to mind. First,

no one is too poor to give. Even if you are struggling to get by, God

will bless your generosity. Second, generous giving should be

sacrificial. C. S. Lewis said that the safest rule for giving is

to give more than you can spare. Finally, the amount you give ought

to be decided in your own heart and not given out of compulsion. It

is a private matter between you and God.

The

purpose of your giving should not be to impress ­others. Instead,

it is a discipline that should increase your faith in God to provide

for you and to draw you closer to him.