In Matthew 6:21, Jesus says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” It’s a short sentence with a long reach. Jesus is not only talking about money. He is pointing to something deeper: the connection between our hearts, our priorities, and our worship. What we treasure most always shows what we trust most.
In the verses before this, Jesus warns against storing up treasures on earth that will fade or fail. Instead, He urges us to store them in heaven, investing in what lasts forever. Scripture weaves this truth again and again. Proverbs 3:9 calls us to honor the Lord with the first and best of what we have. Paul reminds us that “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). True generosity is not about the size of the gift, but the posture of the heart that gives it.
Generosity as a Spiritual Practice
For those who lead, build, and influence, generosity is more than philanthropy. It is discipleship in action. Each act of giving helps shape our hearts to mirror the heart of God. It loosens our grip on temporary things and strengthens our trust in the Giver Himself.
When we lead from open hands, our decisions are guided less by fear and more by faith. We begin to see that generosity is not a financial transaction. It is a spiritual transformation. Giving changes us. It tests where our confidence lies and forms our character in Christlikeness.
Living Generously in Leadership
This kind of heart-level stewardship touches every area of our work and influence.
- In business, it might look like leading with integrity when shortcuts tempt us. It’s using success as a platform for service, not status. Generosity means seeing profits not only as reward but as a resource for Kingdom good.
- In philanthropy, it’s choosing to give in ways that align with God’s purposes, supporting ministries that advance His love and justice. It’s praying over every investment of time and treasure, asking God to multiply its impact for His glory.
- In daily choices, it’s being quick to encourage, willing to give time to others, and ready to meet needs God places before us. Generosity with words, influence, and presence can bear just as much fruit as generosity with wealth.
A Question for the Heart
Jesus’ words invite reflection more than rule-following. So take a moment today to consider this: What do my giving patterns, my priorities, and my decisions say about where my heart truly rests?
As we lead, may our treasure follow our trust. And may every generous act become a quiet declaration that our hearts belong fully to Him.