Matthew 6:1-4 (NLT) Jesus: in my kingdom there’s a contrasting way of giving to the needy. WARNING MOTIVES MATTER Matthew 6:1 (NLT): “Watch out! 2 Warnings About Your Giving Motives: 1. Don’t give publicly to enhance your own . Matthew 6:1–4 (NLT): “…Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. 2 When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. 2. Give to enhance God’s reputation. But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. 4 Give your gifts in private,… Should I expect no reward? …and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. What Now? Be honest about your motives for giving to someone in need. Guilt. — I can’t let anyone think I was too selfish to give. Glory. — I hope someone will notice how righteous & caring I am. Gratitude. — I’ve been given so much, I want to help care for others & inspire them to thank/trust God. Refocus on “glory giving” that enhances God’s reputation. CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION 1. What’s your typical reaction when you hear leaders boasting about themselves? 2. In your opinion, how much do motives matter when someone is giving to the needy? 3. Jesus teaches us to give our gifts in private (instead of in public) in order to avoid taking credit from God. If you’re honest, how much does it bother you when you don’t get the credit for something good you’ve done for someone?