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This reference needs to be considered in context to be properly appreciated: Matthew 6:1-4 - "Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2 Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. 3 But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly." [NKJV] Jesus is using hyperbole in v3 (a figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis) to stress the importance of doing charitable deeds secretly. Think of our modern setting, in which many benefactors make charitable donations mainly for PR purposes…accompanied by press releases, news reporters, perhaps even live television coverage (sounding a Trumpet before them)…to be seen as generous, caring and concerned. Such charity arises from insincere motives, and while it does indeed benefit the recipient, Jesus says that its only reward to the giver will be the praise that men offer. On the other hand, charity that arises only from true concern for the recipient should be anonymous (the point of the hyperbole). The giver, seeking NO praise for his generosity, will be rewarded by God rather than men.

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14y ago
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2w ago

This phrase, often used to describe acts of kindness or charity, means to perform good deeds discreetly without seeking recognition or praise. It emphasizes the idea of selflessness and humility in giving.

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13y ago

The scripture you mention is at Matthew 6:1-8 where Jesus is talking about motives.

Here he's telling us that when we're giving to charity, or doing something to help someone, we should do it from our heart, to help, not to be glorified by men.

We should not give where others can notice and be impressed. We should give privately, so that we will get NO commendation or reward, except from God, 'who looks on in secret'.

Many religious leaders in Jesus' day, and many people today, do things to be observed, and figuratively 'blow a trumpet' to call attention to the 'good' things they are doing so they will be glorified by men. But according to Jesus, praise from men is all they'll get. God knows the heart and will not a bless a self serving attitude.

Christians though, when making gifts of mercy, should not let our left hand know what our right is doing...in other words, make sure that our gifts of mercy are given in secret; then God, who is looking on in secret, will repay us. It's all about faith and trust. Faith that God DOES see our good works and trust that he will bless us.(Hebrews 6:10)(1 Corinthians 15:58)

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Q: What does it mean to 'not let your left hand know what your right hand doeth'?
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