Giving Without a Whisper
The sermon emphasizes the importance of giving without seeking recognition or reward, and promises that God will personally reward secret givers.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of giving in secret, as highlighted in Matthew 6:3-4, where true charity is done without seeking recognition or reward from others. He encourages believers to give so naturally that it becomes a part of their daily lives, akin to eating meals, and to avoid self-congratulation for their generosity. Spurgeon assures that God sees and rewards those who give quietly, promising that the joy found in secret acts of kindness surpasses any earthly reward. He reminds us that the true value of our giving will be revealed in eternity, as God will reward in His perfect timing and manner.
Text
But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: that thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in, secret himself shall regard thee openly. (Matthew 6:3-4)
No promise is made to those who give to the poor to be seen of men. They have their reward at once and cannot expect to be paid twice.
Let us hide away our charity -- yes, hide it even from ourselves. Give so often and so much as a matter of course that you no more take note that you have helped the poor than that you have eaten your regular meals. Do your alms without even whispering to yourself, How generous I am! Do not thus attempt to reward yourself. Leave the matter with God, who never fails to see, to record, and to reward. Blessed is the man who is busy in secret with his kindness: he finds a special joy in his unknown benevolences. This is the bread, which eaten by stealth, is sweeter than the banquets of kings. How can I indulge myself today with this delightful luxury? Let me have a real feast of tenderness and Row of soul.
Here and hereafter the Lord Himself will personally see to the rewarding of the secret giver of alms. This will be in His own way and time; and He will choose the very best. How much this promise means it will need eternity to reveal.
Sermon Outline
- The Secret of Giving
- The Dangers of Public Giving
- The Joy of Secret Giving
- The Promise of God's Reward
- The Lord will personally see to rewarding secret givers
- The reward will be in God's own way and time
Key Quotes
“Blessed is the man who is busy in secret with his kindness: he finds a special joy in his unknown benevolences.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“This is the bread, which eaten by stealth, is sweeter than the banquets of kings.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“How can I indulge myself today with this delightful luxury? Let me have a real feast of tenderness and Row of soul.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- Give regularly and without seeking recognition to experience the joy of secret giving.
- Leave the matter of reward with God, who never fails to see, to record, and to reward.
- Trust that God will personally see to rewarding secret givers in His own way and time.