16 Jun 2014; Mat 6:1-18

16 Jun 2014; Mat 6:1-18

Are we giving enough, praying enough and fasting enough? But are these the marks of a Christian? If yes, how should these acts be taken?

Clearly, Jesus said - give so that your left hand do not know your right hand is doing. Pray in your closet and fast and not make yourself glum. In order that know one know.

The acts are not for others to see and doing more so that others will know - what a god Christian you are. Or even in your own reflection - you can pat yourself to say how well you have done as a Christian.

In simple terms - do it for one - our Father in heaven. Do what it pleases Him. Do them not for the many and others to see and know - for then you will have your reward.

Give without fanfare. Pray without flourish and Fast without frowning.

On the contrary, we are to give to pray and to fast. so how can we strike a balance?

The motivation is to do  and still to do but knowing that we are doing for the glory and so that the glory of God can be made known. Do not stop doing because that will not glorify God. But do not do in a manner that man glorify you (saying that you are such a good Christian).

Do for the One so that God can be glorify - for Him and with Him in the intent.

If you are already giving, praying and fasting, continue to do so.

Have I then been doing - like giving and giving generously without first the intent of glorifying God, then giving without others knowing that it is for the glory of God?

Praying is easier. It is like talking to God - and to do so in private. But how often?

Fasting is not just to go without food. But for a purpose - a prayer request or a time with God.

Among the 3, giving is the hardest for me. Why? Is it I have not enough? I felt that the giving must be of value and of purpose. You don't splurge on yourself, but when the money is given other who receive will just splurge. The recent news about a Malaysian woman who was given through donation a million Singapore dollars for the death of her husband. She splurge and finish the money in a year. Imagine the feelings of those who give her our of love, and maybe for the intent that God's name can be glorify.

I guess it is then by prayer and fasting - that let God speak and I listen and direct where and what to give.