The answer is: In secret

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

When it comes to practicing charitable works, prayer, and fasting, the teachings in Matthew 6:1-18 highlight the beauty of humility and the heart's genuine intentions. The idea is simple and profound: do these acts not for recognition but as a reflection of pure motives. Imagine a world where people help others not for a spotlight but because they truly care. This brings to mind the story of a widow who gave two small coins in the temple, a modest offering that Jesus praised for its sincerity over the much larger gifts of the rich (Mark 12:41-44). It wasn't the size of the gift but the heartfelt devotion behind it that won approval.

Interestingly, fasting is mentioned in the Bible as a practice both for self-reflection and seeking closeness with the divine. Even way back in Isaiah, God pointed out that true fasting meant more than just abstaining from food; it was also about caring for the oppressed and calling for justice (Isaiah 58).

The impact of trying to keep these actions under wraps creates a rich inner life, a personal connection that doesn’t need an audience. It's a balancing act, where the quiet nobility of service becomes the core of one's spiritual journey. In essence, living by these principles transforms how we see charity, prayer, and fasting—not as obligations but as privileges that nourish our souls.