The answer is: In secret

Matt 6:1-18 - Not like the Pharisees who made sure everyone knew what good works they were doing

In Matthew 6:1-18, Jesus opens our eyes to the significance of humility in our spiritual practices, highlighting extravagant displays versus the quiet sincerity of our deeds. It’s like Jesus is pulling back the curtain on the spiritual life—inviting us to connect deeply with our intentions rather than make grand gestures for applause.

You might find it interesting to know that during Jesus’ time, practices like charity (or ‘almsgiving’), prayer, and fasting were often broadcast by the religious elite. The Pharisees would make sure even the stones on the street knew about their good deeds, shedding light on how deeply ingrained public opinion was back then. But they missed the point entirely—not in the show, but in genuine connection grows true spiritual strength.

Think about how silence plays a role. When you do something good in this secret place, it is just between you, that act, and, in essence, the divine. It gives outward appearances much less power over your heart. Fasts, too, were not just about skipping meals but about developing a more profound yearning for unity with the spirit.

Fascinatingly, comparative traditions highlight this principle across various times and cultures—discretion in charitable acts has been lauded in many philosophies, reinforcing how vital it is to lead with humility. So, whether it’s in a simple note of encouragement or a quiet donation, remember that small acts done quietly often resonate the loudest in the echo chambers of the heart.