Need for recognition

Good deeds are commanded in scripture. God commands that we do for others, give to charity and help one another. There is no formula nor is there a set of deeds that we must accomplish while we are here. What He does tell us is not to let the left hand know what the right hand is doing. (Matthew 6:3) The concept behind this teaching is what we do in charity or good deeds should be between the Christian and the Lord. The only really good reason for sharing with another the good deeds we are involved in is for support. For instance, if a Christian is going to distribute food to the needy and needs to enlist help in preparing the food, that is a valid reason for sharing. There is no good reason to share with other people for the focus or spotlight is upon the Christian and the Christian is glorified by man for their good deeds. That is of the world and the flesh.
The message is not that we must be so secretive that we must take extraordinary measures to ensure no one finds out but that there is to be no ‘publishing’ of our deeds. There is to be no pride. When the human flesh speaks about good deeds, there is an air of pride for we are bringing the focus on ourselves. To speak about working as a volunteer in a soup kitchen is seeking accolades. Good deeds are to be done in secret. (Matthew 6:4).