Without An Audience: Learning to Give in Secret

It seems that nothing is done in secret these days. Everything from our political views to our bathroom habits is broadcast on social media.

My mind often returns to Ananias and Sapphira. If you don’t know the story, this couple had sold some land. They saw that others were selling things and giving the money to the early church leaders to help care for the poor.

They wanted the credit for giving but didn’t want to appear selfish by keeping some for themselves. They were so concerned about the opinions of others that they lied and told Paul that they were happy to donate all of the money from the sale of the land.

Paul asked them “Was this really all of the money?”

They could have gracefully admitted that they had, in fact, kept some for themselves; to buy that donkey they’d always wanted, to set aside for the boys’ Bar Mitzphah fund, or to pay the taxes. But instead they lied again and God’s judgment was swift. (You can check out the full story in Acts Chap 5)Their sin wasn’t in keeping some of the money back for themselves, it was in lying about it.

I can only imagine what their social media accounts might have looked like. “Just donated the proceeds of our land sale to the apostles. Feels so good to share ALL that we have. #soldoutforGod.”

I’m not saying that we should never publicize when we give. Our own giving can inspire others and it’s helpful to spread to work about important work being done by various non-profits and charities. I’ve been very public about some of the charities my family has supported over the years. I didn’t share out of arrogance but in the hopes of encouraging others to give as well. I hadn’t even heard of Cure International until a couple years ago, now it’s at the top of my list of charities. I’m grateful for those who told me about their partnership with this great organization. However, there is something to be said for giving in secret.

At a minimum, most organizations send thank you notes. Others take special effort to cultivate positive relationships with donors. While there is nothing wrong with this, giving secretly can help to save energy and resources. When giving to individuals secrecy can also keep them from feeling beholden or obligated towards us. If I send a friend money to go out on a date with her husband and pay a babysitter, I don’t want her to think I expect some equivalent generosity in return.

Try giving anonymously. It can actually be rather fun to imagine the joy that may come from your gift. Plus it reminds us, again, that generosity is meant to be an exercise in humility.

Next – Where to Begin: Starting a Habit of Generosity