Give in Secret: Quiet Generosity Is Stronger Than Praise

There’s a scripture that has shaped the way I live, give, and raise my children. It reminds me to give in secret and let God handle the rest.

It’s found in Matthew 6:1–4, and it speaks boldly in a world that often rewards applause:

“Be very careful not to do your good deeds publicly to be seen by others… But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.”
— Matthew 6:1–4 (AMP)

This kind of giving isn’t about secrecy for secrecy’s sake. Instead, it’s about giving with quiet purpose. No spotlight. No platform. Just obedience and love.

Why I Teach My Children to Give in Secret

When I give, I don’t broadcast it. If my kids happen to see it, I don’t turn it into a story to be retold. I simply say:

“This is between us, the person, and God. We don’t talk about it. We just do it.”

They’ve learned that generosity isn’t powerful because it’s seen. It’s powerful because it’s done in the spirit of humility. Because of that, it leaves a mark — even if no one claps.

We’re not looking for applause. We’re practicing faithfulness — a quiet generosity that honors God and reflects trust in His ways.

One Conversation That Stuck With Me

At a dentist’s office once, I met a woman who shared how she used to give pizzas to the homeless. She’d buy stacks of boxes from Little Caesars and hand them out from one spot.

She spoke with passion. However, she then shared something that stopped me:

“One day, I was robbed. A person came up and demanded I give them everything. I haven’t done it since.”

The fear in her voice was real. She was trying to help — and it backfired.

I didn’t judge her. Instead, I gently encouraged her with a different idea:

“If you ever feel led to do it again, maybe try a different way. Don’t stay in one place. Give to one person, then go. Keep it moving. Keep it safe.”

Sometimes, giving takes wisdom too. And that wisdom can protect us while keeping the heart open.

God Sees What’s Done in Secret

Not every act of kindness is meant to be seen. In fact, some of the most powerful ones are the least talked about.

Giving doesn’t need to be posted or praised. Instead, it’s a sacred moment — between the giver, the receiver, and God. So when we give in secret, we’re saying that we trust Him with the results.

God sees what is done in secret. And He rewards it.

The Eternal Reward of Giving in Secret

I don’t give to be recognized. I give because God has stirred my heart to do so. That’s why I teach my children that real giving happens without praise.

Because the reward we’re after doesn’t come from people. It’s the quiet reward only Heaven can give.

And that’s more than enough.

✨ Scripture of the Week

“Be careful not to do your good deeds publicly to be seen by others…”
— Matthew 6:1–4

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