Giving with an Undivided Heart

Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 

How much should I give? This question has come up countless times in my adult life.  The myriad of requests that come in the mailbox or email inbox—some financial, while others may be requesting my time dedicated to service or time spent in prayer. How much should I give?

In our passage in Corinthians, Paul lays out wide parameters in verse 6; to give sparingly or to give generously. Could the key to giving be in verse 7 where he lays out the follow up to these parameters?  

We have been instructed to give according to what we have decided in our heart to give. Not a percent, or to a certain level of sacrifice.

So, the million dollar (pun intended!) question then becomes…how is my HEART?

One of my favorite passages as a heart guide is Psalm 86: 11,12: “Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart that I may fear your name.  I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever.”

Our heart should be undivided. It should be bent on praise to God.

Additional heart guides in our passage specific to giving point to a heart that is cheerful and not reluctant. And finally, a heart that mirrors the Father with His indescribable gift—of Jesus!

Did you notice the promises that come from heart-focused giving? How about… generous reaping, (v. 6), abundant blessings (v. 8), enrichment to be further generous (v. 11), and expressions of thanks (v. 12) and praise (v. 13) from others toward God?

Exciting stuff!

We all have tangible opportunities to give.  

We have a decision to make with each opportunity that involves integrating many factors to form our response. As we respond, let us be people with an undivided, kingdom-focused heart!

FOR REFLECTION:

• When it comes to generosity, what are the things that can keep you from having an undivided heart? Pray for God to help you overcome them. 

by Kevin Peterson