Be Thou My Vision: First in My Heart?

I love the rich theology in the old hymns. One of my favorites is “Be Thou My Vision.” Recently, I was struck by the third stanza. How often I sing these beautiful, rich, songs and neglect to really apply the truths.

Riches I heed not, not man’s empty praise,
Thou my inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of heaven, My Treasure Thou art.

Two things caught my eye: Riches I heed not and first in my heart. Can I really say I don’t struggle with wanting more riches? Since having a child, I find my desire for security and riches has actually increased. I struggle to be content and believe that God will provide. I often wonder how much is enough and will I be content if I surrender my desires to Him and give even more freely?

As I pondered this, the second phrase stood out to me: Thou and Thou only, first in my heart. What a simple truth. When I believe God and put Him first in my heart (not just my head), it is a natural response give more freely.

The Women Doing Well research revealed women who are giving well have a firm foundation in Scripture. I love the biblical truths represented in this old hymn and pray that my life would sing these truths increasingly.