So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be glorified by people. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward.
In this saying, Jesus emphasizes that when doing good works and giving to the needy, one must avoid showiness and public display. He says that those who boast about their charity, trying to draw attention and receive praise from people, receive their reward right then, in the form of human approval. That is, their deed has no spiritual value before God, because it was done in order to increase their own glory. Such an approach hinders the true spiritual reward that comes from God. Jesus warns his followers that charity should be done quietly, without expectations. He teaches that mercy should come from the heart and be done with sincere love; then God will take it into account and reward it with His blessings.