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| Artwork Credit: Beggar Family on the Road (1860) by Robert Wilhelm Ekman (1808–1873). Public domain image accessed via Artvee.com. |
Some acts of kindness seem too simple or small to be noticed. We give a small amount, hand a meal to someone by the roadside, or pass an envelope discreetly. We do not tell anyone. Yet in our world, even simple moments can become visible. A camera might catch it, or a friend might share it. Others might praise it. When that happens, we remember the Lord’s words: “When you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do… that they may have glory from men” (Matt. 6:2, NKJV).
This command may seem easy to apply until the moment becomes complicated. What if we are part of an organization that posts regular updates? What if someone else shares our act without asking? What if the giving was done in a place where others already saw it?
The Lord's concern in Matthew 6 was directed toward those who give with the aim of being honored. The trumpet they sounded was not a literal instrument, but the self-centered attention they sought. The street and the synagogue were not the problem. The heart that longed for public admiration was.
This does not mean that all visible giving is wrong. In the Gospels, Christ noticed the poor widow who gave her two mites in the temple (Mk. 12:41–44). Others were present, so the act was not hidden. Yet she was not hoping to be seen as her heart was sincere. And the Lord saw more than her gift—He saw her devotion.
In the same way, Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus with oil in the presence of others (Jn. 12:3). Some complained about what she did, but Christ received it as a beautiful preparation for His burial. Her offering was costly, yet it was not presented for admiration. Her gesture was deeply personal and deeply reverent.
We do not always have control over who sees our giving. But we can decide what kind of giver we want to be. If we want to walk in obedience to Matthew 6, we must begin with the hidden posture of the soul. A few questions might help guide us.
What is the reason this moment is being shared?
In ministry work, sharing updates may be necessary. Supporters may need to see how their contributions have helped. When the purpose is stewardship and encouragement, sharing can be done thoughtfully. Scripture teaches that our light may be seen so “that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:16). The difference lies in whether the focus remains on God’s mercy or shifts toward the giver’s merit. It is not always about avoiding praise. It is about resisting the desire to seek it.
What kind of gift was this?
Some acts invite retelling, others do not. A private act of care, done with no audience in mind, may lose its meaning when turned into a story. Even good gifts can become fragile when exposed too early. Not every testimony must be told immediately. We may give thanks without always giving details. And we may remember that God values worship offered in secret just as much as that offered in public.
What if others see and speak well of us?
Being praised is not the same as seeking praise. If someone expresses gratitude or encouragement because of a faithful act, we may receive it with grace. We do not need to silence others. The problem arises when we begin to draw more attention to ourselves, or when we repeat what was said about us for our own comfort. Scripture invites us to honor one another (Rom. 12:10), but also reminds us that the truest joy comes from the Father’s approval, not from the crowd’s applause.
For those serving in ministry or organizational work, it may help to reflect on how updates are shared. Some moments are best shown with faces and names, while others may be more edifying when the focus stays on the work itself. There is wisdom in choosing words and images that direct attention toward the Lord. A thoughtful tone can preserve the dignity of those involved, while still encouraging the hearts of those who gave.
We might also remember that others may share our giving without our permission. In those situations, we may choose to stay silent. We may redirect the attention toward Christ. We may avoid drawing more eyes toward ourselves. Even if people speak well of us, we do not have to repeat them.
Proverbs reminds us: “Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips” (Prov. 27:2). This is not only a principle of humility; it is a safeguard for the soul. When we resist the urge to present our good deeds, we make room for deeper joy. The Lord Himself becomes our audience.
Christ gave Himself for us with no desire to be admired by men. His life was poured out with no trumpet sounding. His glory came through suffering. His reward came from the Father. Those who follow Him are invited to walk the same road.
Giving quietly is a freedom. We are free to love without counting likes. We are free to serve without waiting to be seen. We are free to trust that every unseen act still matters to the Lord, who records every tear and every offering.
Let us give with that in mind. Let us give with that reward in view.
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