I love the wisdom and the promise in Matthew 6:4, which says, “Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you” (NLT). Isn’t that wonderful news?

It’s human nature to want to receive credit when we do something noteworthy. It feels good to be noticed, and it stings to go unrecognized. If you and I rarely get rewarded for our efforts, we may feel unappreciated or even used. It’s tempting to point to ourselves and say, “Hey! I did this good thing. Will anybody acknowledge me?” But self-exaltation does not impress God. Paul wrote that God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7), and the verses I read from Matthew point out that God also prefers a private, secretive giver. In fact, Matthew 6:1 tells us we lose our reward from God the moment we go looking for kudos from others. Something tells me that God’s reward will be way better—even if it’s delayed.

If you’ve been out shopping lately, you can’t help but notice that the season known for giving is coming soon. As you browse through the glittery decorations and the plethora of gift items, ask God how he can use you to give a secret gift to someone who really needs it. Then follow through, but don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Take God at his word and know that he sees everything, including the desires of your heart

Download graphics with the weekly declarations by visiting the Believe & Speak podcast page on my website: shawnamariebryant.com/mypodcast

This week’s scripture:  Matthew 6:1-4