Today I get to talk with you about one of the subjects I am most passionate about: generosity. I firmly believe that generosity is the key to financial contentment and to financial freedom.

Jesus’ economic views never line up with the “seek security for retirement” mindset that we, as Americans, have as a bedrock for our financial pursuits. Rather, Jesus said things like, “go, sell all that you have, and distribute it to the poor” (to the Rich Young Ruler in Luke 18) and “you cannot serve God and wealth” (in Matthew 6) and “seek first the Kingdom of God and all these things will be added to you” (also in Matthew 6).

Those teachings are hard. They are challenging. What is God after? What does He want from us? Sacrifice?

I believe that the simple answer is that He wants our hearts. Jesus also said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19 – 21, NASB)

Jesus knows that the key to our hearts is our treasure. When He has our treasure, He has our hearts.

So, as you consider the place of giving in your own life, ask yourself the heart question. The fact is: giving generously will never make the most financial sense. The fact is: even your most generous gifts will not alleviate a large part of the world’s suffering. However, the fact is: giving generously toward God’s purposes will draw your heart to Him in ways that nothing else can. Nothing.

As you chart a path toward financial wisdom by saving, controlling debt, having a budget, and setting goals, don’t miss the chance to chart a simultaneous path toward the heart of God by giving generously.