tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24744976.post-48816112119116732122008-04-06T04:38:00.000-05:002008-04-06T04:38:00.000-05:002008-04-06T04:38:00.000-05:00Joyce -<BR/><BR/>no, I don't mind. It is a question that comes up from time to time, especially among newer readers. My decision is based on the Bible, and one that some Christians disagree with me on, because I take it on to my taxes as well. <BR/><BR/>The Bible says to let your giving be done in secret with only God knowing. The Bible also talks about the pharisees and how they bragged about their giving, such as the example in the widows mite, where they gave little of their great wealth but the widow gave all she had. There is also the example of the pharisees blowing their own horn to call attention to all their great works.<BR/><BR/><BR/>--- "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 honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. "But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving will be in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. - Matthew 6:2-4 (NAS) ----<BR/><BR/>It is difficult at times, because we all like that pat on the back, the affirmation from others, but it is important to me that I obey God (wish I would obey him as strongly in other areas as I do this one). <BR/><BR/>For a more detailed <A HREF="http://www.debtfree4ever.net/2006/07/is-getting-tax-deduction-on-donations_21.html" REL="nofollow">post</A> on the subject <A HREF="http://www.debtfree4ever.net/2006/07/is-getting-tax-deduction-on-donations_21.html" REL="nofollow">click here</A>.Prince of Thrifthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07863514672517538661noreply@blogger.com