How can we "open wide our hearts" to others in our community today? Drawing Near to Paul’s Plea “ As a fair exchange, I ask you as my children: Open wide your hearts also.” (2 Corinthians 6:13) Paul has just rehearsed his hardships for the gospel (6:3-10) to show how genuine, unguarded love looks in real time. He now invites the Corinthian believers—and us—to match that openness. The command is simple, but the practice is richly layered. What “Open Wide” Signifies • Unrestricted affection—no holding people at arm’s length (cf. 2 Corinthians 7:2). • Readiness to share life, resources, and burdens (1 John 3:17). • Honest, transparent communication—speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). • A posture of grace that mirrors God’s wide-open heart toward us (Romans 5:8). Roots in God’s Own Heart • John 3:16 Love initiates and gives. • Psalm 145:8 “The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and great in loving devotion.” • Romans 8:32 “He who did not spare His own Son… will He not also… graciously give us all things?” Because God has flung open His heart, we can risk opening ours. Practical Ways to Open Wide in Today’s Community 1. Share Time Intentionally • Set aside regular, unhurried blocks for neighbors, church family, coworkers. • “Make the most of every opportunity” (Ephesians 5:16). 2. Listen Before You Advise • “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak” (James 1:19). • Active listening communicates dignity and value. 3. Practice Generous Hospitality • “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers” (Hebrews 13:2). • Open your table—meals bridge social gaps faster than programs. 4. Bear Physical and Emotional Burdens • “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). • Offer childcare, transportation, help with home repairs, a shoulder to cry on. 5. Give Material Support • “Do not withhold good… when it is in your power to act” (Proverbs 3:27). • Create a benevolence envelope in your budget for spontaneous needs. 6. Extend Forgiveness Quickly • “Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13). • An unforgiving spirit slams the door that Christ commands us to keep open. 7. Speak Edifying Words • “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up” (Ephesians 4:29). • Affirm others publicly; correct privately and gently. 8. Mentor the Next Generation • Paul addressed the church “as my children.” Pass the faith forward by discipling youth, new believers, and young families. 9. Celebrate Diversity in Christ • Jew and Gentile, slave and free, male and female are one in Him (Galatians 3:28). • Seek friendships across ethnic, generational, and socioeconomic lines. 10. Pray for—and with—People • Intercession is invisible proof of an open heart (1 Timothy 2:1). • Whenever possible, pray aloud on the spot; it tangibly opens heaven’s door for others. Maintaining Healthy Boundaries Opening wide does not equal naïve enablement. Paul’s same letter calls for separation from idolatry and darkness (6:14-18). • Love without affirming sin (Philippians 1:9-10). • Give without fostering dependency (2 Thessalonians 3:10-12). • Trust, but verify; “be wise as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). Motivations That Sustain an Open Heart • Christ’s love compels us (2 Corinthians 5:14). • Eternal reward awaits liberal sowers (Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:6). • Our witness shines when we love one another (John 13:35). • God Himself refreshes the generous soul (Proverbs 11:25). Taking the Next Step The command is clear, the power is available, and the need around us is urgent. Open wide—because He first opened wide for you. |
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