Go Tell It

Go Tell It

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works.

Hebrews 10:24

A professor and mentor of mine once described the Victorian era’s attitude toward acts of charity as one in which secrecy was paramount. Rather than seeking public approval, British citizens believed that hiding their good deeds increased the legitimacy of what they were doing—if people found out, the generosity didn’t really “count.”

It’s that same entwining of secrecy and generosity that’s addressed in Matthew 6:2-4: “When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! . . . When you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.”

Yet I struggle with this idea. There are many times when friends have posted about a charity or a cause they believe in, asking for donations or help, and I’m moved to do as they ask. Is it a bad thing to talk about organizations we believe in, have helped, and want others to help as well? How is this any different from what the hypocritical do-gooders from Matthew did?

I think it’s more of a heart issue—one that’s addressed in Hebrews, where we are told to “motivate one another to acts of love and good works.” The folks parading their good deeds in the street did it with false humility—“See what I did for these poor people!”—rather than out of a genuine concern for those in need. If our own selfish pride is at the heart of our motivation, we’re in trouble. But touting worthy causes out of a genuine belief that others need help and we can do something about it is never a bad idea.

Do you struggle to tell others of your good deeds? Recognize that there is a fine line between bragging on yourself and spurring others to do good works. Ask God to help you distinguish the difference so you can honor him as you go about his work.

—Kristin

— Today’s Act of Kindness —

Post on social media or send an e-mail to some friends about an organization you care deeply about, encouraging them to consider supporting this ministry.