With Right Intentions

Reflection 60 from Matters of the Heart, a series of Orthodox reflections on faith and life.

Verse: “But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” – Matthew 6:3

See Also:

Galatians 6:9

The Teacher in this instance could not be speaking in the literal sense, for how can someone perform a charitable deed with one hand without the knowledge of their other hand? Rather, the Lord is placing great emphasis on being charitable to those in need, but doing so with intentional secrecy. Such teachings of the Lord are contrary to the actions of the Scribes and Pharisees at the time that were seen to proclaim their good deeds for all to see. These religious leaders were not content with a heavenly reward, but were out to seek the praise of men.

With this in mind let each of us examine the motivation of our deeds in order to ensure that they are not driven by vainglory. God is everywhere present and alone is capable of providing a heavenly reward that far exceeds the earthly. Let us therefore be content to have God as the witness for our good deeds.

Prayer

Teach me Lord to examine that which drives my actions in order that I may serve You with pure intentions.

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