Why Motives Matter: The Heart Behind Generosity with Pierce Taylor Hibbs

·25 min·2 clips

Pierce Taylor Hibbs unpacks why our hearts are always pulled toward something, just like planets orbiting a sun.

This episode of Faith & Finance explores the theological and practical importance of motives behind Christian generosity. Host Rob West interviews author and theologian Pierce Taylor Hibbs, who has written over 20 books on Christian living. They examine why God cares more about the heart of the giver than the size of the gift. Hibbs opens by referencing counselor David Powlison's metaphor that our lives orbit a "sun," representing what we worship. The discussion centers on the biblical story of the unnamed widow in Mark 12, whom Jesus praised for her small offering of two copper coins. Hibbs explains the Hebrew concept of the "lebab," or heart, as the source of all thought and action, citing Dutch theologian Herman Bavinck. Jesus taught that good actions must flow from a "good treasure" within the heart. A key insight is that giving reflects one's spiritual condition and is not merely a financial transaction. Hibbs argues that generosity encompasses time and talents, not just money, and is a continuous part of daily life. He warns that motives often become idolatrous, combining the idols of pleasure and power that theologian Vern Poythress identifies. Self-examination is crucial, as David Powlison taught that the heart is always actively "chasing" either God or something else. A surprising claim is that people often operate under the illusion their hearts are in a "neutral zone," when in reality there is no middle ground between worshiping God and idolatry. Hibbs admits his own motives are frequently impure, yet God still uses him. The episode challenges listeners to ask "Why am I doing what I'm doing?" to uncover if their actions stem from worship or obligation. Cultivating godly motives begins with studying Jesus's interactions in the Gospels, particularly the widow's story. The tone is educational and pastoral, blending deep theological concepts with accessible, everyday application. The style is a structured conversational interview, punctuated by the host's affirming summaries. Listeners interested in the spiritual dimensions of stewardship and personal heart-check will find this episode deeply rewarding. Those seeking purely technical financial advice may find the content too theological.

As heard by us

A steady look at generosity that asks what the heart is really serving.

Pierce Taylor Hibbs frames generosity as more than a financial act, tying it to worship, fear, and need before it ever reaches another hand. The discussion keeps circling back to motive, with Jesus' teaching used to ask what the heart is serving when giving begins.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

If you want a calmer look at why generosity starts in the heart before it reaches your hands, press play.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Faith & Finance