The Danger of Hypocritical Giving

Unbelief can take many forms, but the most dangerous of these is religious unbelief. On the outside, the hypocrite seems to be devoted and righteous. He may even appear diligent in righteous practices, while inwardly he is devoid of spiritual life. The difference between the works of the hypocrite and the genuine believer are found in the motivations of the heart. Hypocrites work for the applause of men, or to realize some temporal gain. They give with the expectation of being honored or recompensed, and therefore the purpose of their gift is to draw attention to themselves. The spiritual man performs good works out of a love for others and a desire to honor and glorify God. His gifts are given in secret, knowing that God will generously reward as He sees fit. What should we do when we find some evidence of hypocrisy in ourselves? Confess it to the Lord, and repent of these old ways. Then guard your heart, holding on loosely to the things of this world, and seek the approval of God rather than men.