Think not you are charitable if the love of Jesus and His…
“Think not you are charitable if the love of Jesus and His brethren be not purely the motive of your gifts. Alas! you might not give your superfluities, but "bestow all your goods to feed the poor;" you might even "give your body to be burned" for them, and yet be utterly destitute of charity, if self-seeking, self-pleasing or self-ends guide you; and guide you they must, until the love of God be by the Holy Ghost shed abroad in your heart.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
True charity requires love as its sole motive, not self‑interest or desire for recognition.
In simple terms: Charity must be driven by love, not self‑gain.
Key Takeaway
Examine motives before giving.
Themes
charity
motivation
spirituality
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
ethical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- church service
- personal giving
- volunteering
- mission trips
Key Concepts
self‑interest
humility
divine love
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your generosity?
- How can you ensure love, the motive?
A Different Perspective
If love is absent, giving becomes self‑service, not true charity.