Giving To The Needy
Giving just to be seen by others doesn’t impress God, and in the long run, it doesn’t impress people either. If we give just so the world can see what good people we are, others soon realise that we’re “all show,” having no substance to our character. When we give merely because we want to help others, then we are giving in the same way that God first helped us.
The same principle applies to prayer. God doesn’t want beautiful speeches. He looks for sincere hearts. And this is the first thing to remember about prayer. Jesus shows that honesty in prayer is what counts. He also reminds us that we have to care about the things God cares about. Otherwise, our prayers will be selfish.
Giving
Matthew 6: 1-4
When you do good deeds, don’t try to show off. If you do, you won’t get a reward from your Father in heaven.
When you give to the poor, don’t blow a loud horn. That’s what show-offs do in the meeting places and on the street corners because they are always looking for praise. I can assure you that they already have their reward.
When you give to the poor, don’t let anyone know about it. Then your gift will be given in secret. Your Father knows what is done in secret, and he will reward you.
The Lord’s Prayer
Matthew 6: 5-15
(Luke 11: 2-4)
When you pray, don’t be like those show-offs who love to stand up and pray in the meeting places and on the street corners. They do this just to look good. I can assure you that they already have their reward.
When you pray, go into a room alone and close the door. Pray to your Father in private. He knows what is done in private, and he will reward you.
When you pray, don’t talk on and on as people do who don’t know God. They think God likes to hear long prayers. Don’t be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask.
You should pray like this:
Our Father in heaven, help us to honour your name.
Come and set up your kingdom so that everyone on earth will obey you, as you are obeyed in heaven.
Give us our food for today.
Forgive us for doing wrong, as we forgive others.
Keep us from being tempted and protect us from evil. If you forgive others for the wrongs they do to you, your Father in heaven will forgive you. But if you don’t forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins.
