by Jerry Senn
“Charles Spurgeon and his wife, according to reliable sources, would sell, but refused to give away, the eggs their chickens laid. Even close relatives were told, ‘You may have them if you pay for them.’ As a result, some people labeled the Spurgeons greedy and grasping.
They accepted the criticisms without defending themselves, and only after Mrs Spurgeon died was the full story revealed: All the profits from the sale of eggs went to support two elderly widows. Because the Spurgeons were unwilling to let their left hand know what the right hand was doing…they endured the attacks in silence.” (Leadership Journal)
Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, said:
“Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:2-4).
It is not wrong for others to know how you give, but it is inappropriate anytime we give for the sole purpose of being praised by men. This is hypocritical, according to Jesus. The story of Ananias and Sapphira, illustrates Jesus’ teaching on the subject perfectly. (See Acts 5:1-11)
On the other hand, Paul, in 2 Corinthians 8, informs the brethren there to be impressed with the generous gifts provided by the churches of Macedonia. So, it is good when we’re encouraged to give more generously by observing the giving of others.
However, wisdom calls for serious discernment in evaluation of our motives in helping others, both financially and otherwise.