If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames but have not love, I gain nothing. ~1 Corinthians 13:3
Many people believe that they can give more money or take on more responsibilities that eat up their time to make a difference. The problem with that philosophy is that it is centered in the “I” not in the “them” mentality. Even taking a seemingly pure concept executed with the wrong motives negates the power of the act. The action is not taken for the purpose of meeting another human being’s need. It is not taking into consideration another person’s feelings, sadness, or despair and trying to relieve their pain. Acts done for self- promotion are empty, selfish movements in the eyes of the Almighty.
The actions that make a difference are in giving out of pure love. Giving of money to someone because they desperately need it done completely out of love for them and not to elevate your status in their eyes. Giving of your time to an event so others can experience more love or help is giving out of a God-centered heart. Even giving of yourself to sacrifice for Christ must be done not as a holier-than-thou pious act, but done out of true love for your Savior. We walk a fine line as human beings to act out of love and not out of selfishness. But the pure heart is the heart God seeks.
Further Thoughts:
- How did Christ demonstrate a pure heart and pure motives with His life?
- Is your present giving – whether money, time, or actions – done out of love or for self-satisfaction? Explain.
- What needs to change in your life to give out of love?
Father, make me conscious moment by moment that my motives are not selfish, but from a heart of pure love. Amen.
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