What is the meaning of Matthew 6:4? So that your giving may be in secret Jesus has just warned, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be seen by them” (Matthew 6:1). The flow continues: give quietly, away from applause. • When generosity is motivated by love, secrecy comes naturally (Matthew 6:3). • Private giving guards the heart from pride and maintains sincere worship (Proverbs 21:2; 2 Corinthians 9:7). • God often works through hidden acts—think of the widow of Zarephath who quietly shared her last meal and was sustained by the Lord (1 Kings 17:8-16). And your Father Jesus highlights relationship before reward. In Christ, givers address God as “Father” (Matthew 6:9). • A child gives out of family likeness, not for a trophy (Ephesians 5:1). • The Father delights in mercy (Luke 6:36) and calls His children to mirror that heart (Psalm 103:13). • This son-or-daughter mindset frees believers from craving human recognition (Romans 8:15-17). Who sees what is done in secret Nothing escapes His notice (Psalm 139:1-3). • The Lord “fills heaven and earth” (Jeremiah 23:24), observing motives as well as deeds. • His watchful care is reassuring, not intrusive—“The eyes of the LORD roam to and fro to show Himself strong for those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him” (2 Chronicles 16:9). • Hidden obedience today will be public testimony to His faithfulness tomorrow (Esther 6:1-11). Will reward you God’s rewards are certain, timely, and perfectly tailored. • He “rewards those who earnestly seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). • The reward may include provision now (Proverbs 19:17; Luke 6:38) and will certainly include eternal commendation when “each will receive his praise from God” (1 Corinthians 4:5). • Because the Father handles the reward, believers are liberated to give without calculation (Acts 20:35). summary Matthew 6:4 shifts the spotlight from public acclaim to private devotion. Jesus calls His followers to give quietly, resting in relationship with their heavenly Father. The God who sees every hidden act promises personal, trustworthy reward, freeing His children to live generously without seeking the applause of people. |
    |