Introduction: Good Deeds Unnoticed
While the world often praises public displays of kindness, Scripture shows us that good deeds unnoticed by others are often the most treasured by God. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught that when we give, pray, and fast in secret, our Father who sees in secret will reward us (Matthew 6:1-6).
This article explores 10 examples from the Bible—five from the Old Testament and five from the New Testament—of individuals who performed good deeds quietly, often without recognition, but received God’s approval and blessing.
Old Testament Examples of Good Deeds Unnoticed
1. Joseph Honors Potiphar by Resisting Temptation (Genesis 39:6-12)
Joseph refused the advances of Potiphar’s wife, not for human approval but because he honored God in secret. Though it led to his imprisonment, God later exalted him.
“How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” – Genesis 39:9
2. Hannah’s Silent Prayer (1 Samuel 1:10-13)
Hannah poured her heart out to God in private, praying for a child. Though misunderstood by the priest Eli, God heard her secret cry and gave her Samuel.
“Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard.” – 1 Samuel 1:13
3. Obadiah Hides Prophets from Jezebel (1 Kings 18:3-4)
Obadiah secretly hid 100 prophets in caves and fed them, risking his life to protect God’s servants.
“Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water.” – 1 Kings 18:4
4. Mordecai Saves the King (Esther 2:21-23)
Mordecai uncovered an assassination plot and reported it discreetly. Though unrewarded at first, his deed later led to great honor.
“Mordecai found out about the plot and told Queen Esther… it was recorded in the book of the annals.” – Esther 2:22-23
5. Elisha Helps a Widow in Private (2 Kings 4:1-7)
When a widow cried out to Elisha, he told her to gather jars privately. As she obeyed, God miraculously filled every jar with oil.
“Shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.” – 2 Kings 4:4
New Testament Examples of Good Deeds Unnoticed
6. The Widow’s Mite (Mark 12:41-44)
While others gave publicly and proudly, a poor widow quietly gave two small coins—all she had. Jesus noticed her private sacrifice.
“Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.” – Mark 12:43
Read more about the Gospel of Mark on Wikipedia
7. Jesus Heals and Says “Tell No One” (Matthew 8:1-4)
Jesus healed a man with leprosy and instructed him not to boast or spread word, showing the value of quiet compassion.
“See that you don’t tell anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest…” – Matthew 8:4
8. A Woman Anoints Jesus Privately (Matthew 26:6-13)
A woman poured expensive perfume on Jesus’ head. Though some criticized her, Jesus affirmed her act would be remembered forever.
“She has done a beautiful thing to me… what she has done will also be told in memory of her.” – Matthew 26:10-13
9. Paul Escapes in a Basket (Acts 9:23-25)
Believers lowered Paul through a window in the wall to save his life. Their act wasn’t for show but stemmed from sincere faith and courage.
“His followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.” – Acts 9:25
10. Cornelius Gives and Prays in Secret (Acts 10:1-4)
Cornelius was known for his quiet generosity and regular prayers. God acknowledged his devotion and sent an angel.
“Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.” – Acts 10:4
These good deeds unnoticed by people remind us that God values the heart behind every action. True righteousness is not about applause but about sincere obedience.
A Prayer for Repentance and Acceptance of Christ
Heavenly Father,
I come to You today acknowledging my sins and my need for Your mercy. Thank You for seeing even the smallest acts I perform in faith. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again so that I may have eternal life. I repent of my sins and ask for Your forgiveness.
Jesus, I accept You as my Lord and Savior. Help me to serve in humility, not for recognition but to glorify You. Guide my steps to live a life of unseen yet powerful devotion.
In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.